Volunteer at the MK Nature Center
Volunteering at the Nature Center is rewarding in many ways. You'll be a part of a team that makes the Nature Center a great place to visit.
Who We Are
The MK Nature Center offers a glimpse of Idaho's landscapes and abundant wildlife- all in the middle of town. Our mission is to promote an understanding and appreciation of Idaho's natural resources. We demonstrate how people can attract and enjoy wildlife in their backyards by providing adequate habitat. About 300,000 people visit us annually. We provide programs (guided tours) for 10,000 students annually.
What is required to volunteer at the Nature Center?
You do not need any special skills to be a volunteer, only enthusiasm. We provide all of the training you'll need. However, if you have special skills we would love to hear about them! Volunteers are not required to work a minimum number of hours. Volunteers must be age 16 or older.
Volunteer Positions
- Gardener: Duties include planting, weeding, weed pulling, pruning, working in the butterfly and hummingbird garden and other landscaping duties.
- Teacher - Interpreter: Duties include conducting wildlife programs and leading groups of visitors, primarily elementary students, through the outside stream-walk area. Programs are conducted Monday through Friday at 9:00 am, 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. Guides are needed year round. We provide all of the information and training.
Special Projects & Events
- Eagle Scout Projects: The Nature Center welcomes Eagle Scout projects. We do however ask that you walk the grounds with "fresh eyes" and develop a project that you see would enhance our facility. Send your proposal to us and we will review and notify you if your project can be completed here. After we receive your proposal, we will work with you on some of our ideas as well. Please include as many details about your project as possible in your proposal.
- Idaho Salmon and Steelhead Days: Hundreds of volunteers are needed every September for Idaho Salmon and Steelhead Days. It is a three-day event, just for fifth graders. The goal of this event is to elevate public awareness and appreciation of salmon and steelhead. Volunteers are needed to guide groups to activities and work at eight activities during the three weekdays.
- International Migratory Bird Day: The second Saturday in May is IMBD when people around the world celebrate and educate people about migratory birds. Volunteers are needed to host children's activities and meet and greet visitors.
Questions? Contact Cass Meissner at 287-2901.
