Volunteer Site Host

FROM: https://www.volunteer.gov/s/volunteer-opportunity/a09SJ00000PKwFx

ADDRESS: 3201 East Universal Way  Tucson, Arizona, 85756

DATES: 10/1/2026 – 3/30/2027

DEPT: Bureau of Land Management

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area is situated at elevations ranging from 3,500 to 4,628 feet, with the Fairbank Historic Townsite—site of the host location—positioned at 3,858 feet. The Fairbank Historic Townsite lies approximately 76 miles southeast of Tucson, AZ and 21 miles northeast of Sierra Vista, AZ. Located within the Fairbank Historic Townsite and adjacent to the Fairbank Schoolhouse Visitor Contact Station, operated by the Friends of the San Pedro River (FSPR), a BLM partner and non-profit organization, the setting is remote yet generally offers reliable cell service based on carrier coverage. All duties are performed outdoors in an attractive natural environment.

The site provides visitors with access to a historic townsite and property, featuring multiple buildings and the San Pedro Trail. There are currently no fees for guests visiting the townsite, and the area is designated for day use only. Backcountry camping is permissible under an Individual Special Recreation Permit (ISRP) for a fee of $2 per person per night with a seven-day camping limit, and backcountry camping must occur ½-mile from the trailhead parking area. There are no designated or marked campsites and visitors are encouraged to find existing campsites within the trail system area. Amenities at the townsite include outdoor interpretive signage, a system trail, a single-vault restroom, picnic tables, trash receptacles, and equestrian hitches (horseback riding is prohibited inside the townsite). Activities available at the townsite include hiking, bird watching, guided interpretive tours (offered by the FSPR), photography, and picnicking. Approved events under Special Recreation Permits (SRP) issued by the Tucson Field Office occur on the trail system and include commercial equestrian rides and commercial hunting guides. Organized events have occurred in the past at the townsite but currently in the last five years there have been no SRPs issued for organized events at the townsite.

The nearest grocery store is in Benson, AZ, roughly a 20-minute drive away, or in Sierra Vista, AZ, about 25-30 minutes away; other necessities can be found in these cities. Benson and Sierra Vista offer amenities including a gas station, convenience stores, restaurants, and a post office. Major medical facilities are available in Benson and Sierra Vista. Volunteers will have opportunities to engage with diverse and welcoming visitors and acquire valuable insights into BLM natural resource and recreation programs.

SITE HOST FURNISHED ITEMS – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) suggests that Site Host volunteers bring the following when assigned to the Fairbank Historic Townsite:

·      RV/trailer for overnight stays

·      Transportation, camping gear, personal items

·      Food and supplies

·      Personal phone

BLM FURNISHED ITEMS – The following items will be provided by BLM to the Site Host volunteer during their assignment at the Fairbank Historic Townsite:

·      Space provided for setting up an RV or travel trailer.

·      Access to water from the on-site system.

·      Electricity available from the existing panel. The site host must arrange a backup power source during outages.

·      Refills of propane tanks during the Site Host’s stay. Site host handles refills, BLM covers the invoice.

·      Connection to septic tank.

·      Key for site access gates (requires a DI-105).

·      Key or lock combination for Fairbank bathroom toilet paper holder.

·      Extra toilet paper for both host use and restocking public toilets if needed before contractor servicing.

·      Grounds maintenance tools provided: rake, shovel, pruning saw, loppers, gloves, safety goggles, and broom.

·      Official BLM Volunteer hat or vest supplies.

Tagged as: FALL '26, WINTER