Introduction

The Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, located just six miles north of Atlantic City, New Jersey, protects over 48,000 acres of diverse coastal habitats. The refuge primarily consists of wetlands (82%), but also features woodlands, grasslands, dunes, and beaches. It is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering 15 miles of scenic trails, boat launches, a Visitor Information Center, and the popular 8-mile Wildlife Drive auto tour.

The Refuge’s location in one of the Atlantic Flyway’s most active flight paths makes it a critical stopover for countless bird species, and one of the region's premier birding destinations. Visitors can engage in a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, birdwatching, fishing, hunting, photography, and more. This blend of stunning natural landscapes and opportunities for exploration makes it a must-visit for nature lovers. For more information about the refuge, please visit: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/edwin-b-forsythe.

Friday Bird Walk Guide

Interested in being a part of the Edwin B. Forsythe refuge? Join our volunteer team and learn about the various tasks that go on behind the scenes to help manage the refuge.

Description:

Co-lead guided bird walks on the refuge that help educate and engage visitors. Guides set and encourage a friendly and interactive environment for participants and help to increase understanding, and support of, the mission and resources of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service and Edwin B. Forsythe NWR.

Availability: Fridays 7:45 am - 10:15 am, September through June.

Duties and responsibilities:

·       Use SignUp app to sign up for days.

·       Coordinate with other guides and assistants for staffing coverage.

·       Work with Co-guide and assistants to facilitate walks focused on locating and identifying migratory birds in the refuge.

·       Educate visitors about the refuge, local wildlife, and the importance of habitat protection.

·       Use trash picker to help remove trash when possible.

·       Opportunities available to assist with developing educational content, interactive activities, tabling programs, and pop-up and special events.

Qualifications:

·       Experience in, or ability to learn, guided walk techniques, safely lead visitors, and provide educational information.

·       Basic knowledge of migratory birds; identification of and what birds to look for in each season and habitat.

·       Ability to interact responsively, politely, and empathetically with people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

·       Volunteers must be 18 years or older with reliable transportation.

Training & Requirements: Refuge staff and/or experienced volunteers will provide training and review position safety requirements and policy. Volunteers are required to:

·      Complete a Volunteer Agreement form and review the Service Description and Volunteer Handbook annually.

·      Attend orientation and receive training on relevant refuge policies and procedures.

·      Complete a timesheet and work with other guides to document total number of bird walks and participants per walk.

Conditions of Service: Volunteer must be safety-conscious and actively communicate with their supervisor. Work will be outdoors and may expose volunteers to various weather conditions, wildlife, thorny/irritating vegetation, biting/stinging insects, and allergens. Duties require a moderate level of activity including walking on trails and gravel roads. A uniform hat, jacket and T-shirt will be provided.