Volunteer
Job Description
FROM: https://www.volunteer.gov/s/volunteer-opportunity/a093d000000XdCGAA0/swan-check-park-ranger
——
ADDRESS: Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge; 2155 W Forest St; Brigham City, Utah 84302
DEPT: Fish & Wildlife Service
DATES:
DESCRIPTION:
The Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge was established in 1928 after local hunters petitioned to save these lands for bird populations that were being devastated by avian botulism. As such, 40% of Refuge lands are open to seasonal hunting. During Swan hunt season (October-December, dates vary yearly), Utah state tundra vs. trumpeter swan hunt bag checks are conducted at Bear River. If you enjoy interacting with hunters and learning about wildlife management, this volunteer position may be for you!
The Swan Check Park Ranger is a volunteer dedicated to helping the Refuge run Swan Checks for the state of Utah during November for the swan hunt season. Hunters must check swans within 3 days of harvesting. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources uses the information to track hunting success and the number of harvested Trumpeter swans. The Utah Swan season ends when the federal quota of Trumpeter Swans has been harvested (20, in 2021). The Swan Check Park Ranger will assist Refuge staff to identify Trumpeter vs. Tundra Swans. Hours are typically, 30 hours/week. RV pad access is available for this position. The pad has hookups for water, power, Wi-Fi, and sewage, as well as free access to laundry machines.
Training Required:
The Swan Check Park Ranger will receive training on how to identify trumpeter swans and tundra swans based on their size, bill, and markings. Training will also be provided on Utah Swan Hunt regulations and how to handle harvested swans safely.
Since the Swan Check Park Ranger will be a representative of the Refuge, they must complete training regarding the mission, history, and management of the Refuge, the recreational opportunities at the Refuge, and the role of the Refuge as part of the GSL ecosystem. Depending on experience, targeted training may be provided on the flora and fauna at the Refuge.
Use of a government vehicle may be required while on duty. All volunteers must complete the appropriate driving forms and Defensive Driving training to be allowed to drive a government vehicle.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Assist Refuge staff in running Swan Checks for the state of Utah during the swan hunt season (October – December).
- Help identify Tundra vs. Trumpeter Swans.
- Record the number of both swans harvested as per Utah hunting regulations. The Utah Swan season ends when the federal quota of trumpeter swans has been harvested (20, in 2021).
- Interact with hunters and answer their questions about waterfowl and hunting regulations.
Qualifications:
- Ability to communicate effectively with the public and with hunters.
- Have a strong interest in natural resources and conservation.
- Must have a positive attitude.
- Must be comfortable handling and identifying harvested swans.
Requirements:
- Complete necessary administrative paperwork (Volunteer Service Agreement, Job Hazard Analysis, etc.).
- Must be able to commit to volunteering during Swan Hunt season, October – December (dates vary). The position will end when the Swan Hunt season ends.
- Complete provided training on swan identification.
- Wear provided volunteer uniform while performing duties.
- Report observed violations to appropriate staff. Do not perform law enforcement duties.
- Represent the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in a professional manner.
- Record volunteer hours in binder at the Front Desk.
- May be required to undergo a background investigation.
- If using the RV volunteer pad, must have a functional RV with necessary hookup capabilities.
- Biology
- Conservation Education
- Fish/Wildlife
- Visitor Information
- Working with People
Work Environment:
Most work will occur outdoors at the Refuge Swan Check Station. The Swan Check Park Ranger must be alert for uneven or wet terrain and slips or falls. The Swan Check Park Ranger must also be able to work in all manner of weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
Lifting of equipment, tables, and supplies as heavy as 50 lbs. may be required.
Conditions of Service:
- This volunteer reports directly to the Volunteer Coordinator. But may also work with Refuge Biology staff.
- Seniors are eligible to enroll in the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program for mileage compensation to commute to the Refuge.
- If serving as an RV volunteer, the Swan Check Park Ranger must commit to volunteer for the entire swan hunt season. Individuals or couples who serve as RV volunteers must work an individual or combined 30 hours a week. RV’s must be fully functional with hookups for water, power, and sewage.
Hours and Time Commitment:
The Swan Check Park Ranger must commit to working throughout the Utah Swan hunt season. The season is October – December (specific dates vary). The Swan season may close early, if the federal quota for trumpeter swans has been reached before the end of the season.
Individuals or couples who serve as RV volunteers must work an individual or combined 30 hours a week.
- General housekeeping
- Slip, trip, and fall hazards
- Electrical hazards
- Ergonomic problems
- Handling deceased wildlife
- Yes