Ways to Get Involved
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has. - Margaret Mead
Refuge Volunteers
Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge has a very active volunteer program. Volunteers are primarily needed as trailhead docents, greeting and assisting visitors as they arrive at the Refuge. People who enjoy teaching and learning about nature, interacting with the public, and who are looking to be good land stewards are needed for these positions. Other volunteer opportunities may include beach clean-ups, wildlife surveys, invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
Learn more about invasive species mitigation, maintenance, trail roving, and administration. A comprehensive training is held annually in the spring.
For more information call the Refuge at (360) 457-8451.
Friends of Dungeness NWR
The Friends of Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge was founded as a non-profit organization in 2000 and supports the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in protecting the rich habitats of the Washington Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Complex. They provide support for educational, interpretive and outreach activities that enhance public understanding and promote stewardship for these unique natural resources.
Seabird Surveys, COASST
The University of Washington coordinates the Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST), an excellent citizen science project to monitor seabird health in the Pacific Northwest. COASST monitors beaches in and near the Refuge. Information gathered about the general health of the Refuge’s seabird population can provide important information to refuge managers. COASST volunteers for the beaches in this region are coordinated by the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary office in Port Angeles.
Volunteering
Volunteers greet visitors and provide information about the Refuge’s trails and wildlife. They also assist with education programs, invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
Learn more about invasive species mitigation, habitat restoration, maintenance, beach clean-ups, and administration. Refuge Volunteers collectively contribute more than 10,000 hours each year and are critical to Refuge management.
Volunteers are recruited each Spring and are required to complete a 7-hour basic training program. For more information about volunteering please contact us at: (360) 457-8451.
Our Partners
The National Wildlife Refuge System is committed to building partnerships which encourage conservation and preservation of our natural and cultural resources. Partnerships with the Refuge System bring innovative approaches to solving land management and water disputes in the most environmentally protective manner. Scientifically-informed and technologically-based stewardship of our public lands, waters, wildlife and special places must be collaborative efforts between the Refuge System, other government agencies, and private organizations if conservation efforts are to succeed.
Friends of Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge
The Friends organization promotes the conservation of the natural and cultural resources of the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge and engages in educational, charitable, scientific, and civic activities that increase public awareness and assist management in accomplishing Refuge goals.
New Dungeness Light Station Association
The Light Station is maintained and operated by the New Dungeness Light Station Association, whose vision is that "The New Dungeness Light Station will be the finest example of historic restoration, preservation and interpretation in the Nation". Membership in the Association furthers the mission of the preservation, restoration, and interpretation of the site.
Dungeness Recreation Area
Bordering the Refuge, the County Recreation Area provides a scenic buffer to Refuge lands. The Recreation Area provides visitors with opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching as well as activities that are not available on the Refuge, including trails to walk with pets, equestrian trails, jogging, a campground, and a picnic area with fire pits.
