Reports To:
James Sullivan, Volunteer Steward
Brittany Lewkowski, Chief Conservation & Engagement Officer

​

Position Overview

The 5,550-acre Hudson River Special Management Area, also known as the Hudson River Recreation Area and commonly referred to as "Buttermilk," is located along the eastern shore of the Hudson River within the Lake George Wild Forest. The area features hiking trails, campsites, hand-launch access sites, and recreational opportunities that attract thousands of visitors each year, particularly during the spring and summer seasons.

As visitation has increased, the area has experienced environmental challenges including litter accumulation, vegetation damage along the Hudson River shoreline, and impacts to sensitive natural resources.

Morgan Duke Conservation Society works with volunteers and local communities to help protect and preserve the Hudson River Special Management Area through stewardship, conservation, and public education programs.

Morgan Duke Conservation Society is seeking dedicated Community Outreach Volunteers to assist with visitor education, volunteer recruitment, and public engagement efforts. Volunteers will help promote Leave No Trace principles, distribute educational materials, answer visitor questions, and encourage responsible recreation throughout the management area.

Duties and Responsibilities

​

Community Outreach Volunteers may:

• Set up and staff an informational table at the Town Line Parking Lot within the Hudson River Special Management Area.

• Distribute DEC-approved brochures and educational materials.

• Hand out Morgan Duke Conservation Society's Hudson River Special Management Area visitor booklet.

• Educate visitors about Leave No Trace principles and responsible outdoor recreation practices.

• Answer visitor questions regarding trails, campsites, recreation opportunities, and area resources.

• Provide volunteer application packets to individuals interested in becoming conservation volunteers.

• Assist with the development of educational outreach materials and community engagement initiatives.

• Support conservation volunteer projects such as litter cleanups, tree planting activities, and stewardship events when additional assistance is needed.

• Assist with volunteer recruitment efforts by reaching out to local community groups, schools, colleges, employers, civic organizations, and other community partners to share information about Morgan Duke Conservation Society and its volunteer opportunities.

• Provide volunteer applications and educational materials to individuals and organizations interested in becoming involved with conservation and stewardship programs.

​

Volunteer Recruitment and Community Partnerships

​

Community Outreach Volunteers may assist Morgan Duke Conservation Society in expanding volunteer participation by contacting local schools, colleges, employers, community groups, civic organizations, outdoor recreation clubs, and other interested partners. Volunteers may provide information about the Society's mission, conservation programs, educational initiatives, and volunteer opportunities and distribute volunteer application materials to individuals interested in supporting conservation and stewardship efforts.

​

Volunteer Schedule

​

This is a flexible volunteer opportunity that allows volunteers to work at their own pace and on their own schedule.

Community Outreach Volunteers are encouraged to conduct outreach activities:

• Before and after major holiday weekends, including Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.

• During weekends and periods of high visitor use.

• On cooler weather days when visitor engagement opportunities are favorable.

 

Community Outreach Volunteers may choose how long they wish to staff the outreach table at the Town Line Parking Lot during approved outreach and educational activities. Volunteers are free to determine the duration of their service based on their availability, weather conditions, visitor traffic, and personal schedule.

Training and Requirements

​

• Volunteers will receive orientation and training materials.

• Community Outreach Volunteers are required to complete any applicable DEC volunteer forms or agreements necessary for participation and workers' compensation coverage.

• Volunteers are expected to represent Morgan Duke Conservation Society professionally and respectfully while interacting with the public.

• Volunteers work under the guidance of the Volunteer Steward and Chief Conservation & Engagement Officer.

• Volunteers should have an interest in conservation, environmental education, public engagement, or community service.

Support Provided

Morgan Duke Conservation Society will provide:

• Fold-up table and chair

• DEC-approved brochures

• Educational displays and outreach materials

• Hudson River Special Management Area educational booklets

• Volunteer application packets

• Ongoing support and guidance from staff

• Training materials and resources

• Access to volunteer Zoom meetings

 

 

Volunteer Benefits

• Opportunity to make a positive impact on the Hudson River Special Management Area

• Gain experience in environmental education and community engagement

• Gain experience in volunteer recruitment and community outreach

• Ongoing support from Morgan Duke Conservation Society staff and volunteers

• Access to training and stewardship resources

• Participation in volunteer meetings and conservation projects

• Assignment to the @morganduke.ngo Microsoft Viva Engage platform for communication and collaboration

• Access to the Volunteer Portal for tracking and submitting volunteer service hours

• Opportunities to assist with conservation projects, including tree planting and litter cleanup initiatives

• Networking opportunities with community organizations, schools, employers, and conservation partners

Additional Volunteer Opportunities

Community Outreach Volunteers are encouraged, but not required, to participate in other Morgan Duke Conservation Society volunteer activities. Opportunities may include:

• Trail and campsite litter cleanups

• Parking lot and roadway cleanup projects

• Tree planting projects in approved DEC locations

• Stewardship and conservation events

• Community education programs

• Volunteer recruitment events