Itasca State Park, LaSalle Lake SRA, and Paul Bunyan State Forest Campground

Purpose (why we are doing this)

Desired outcomes:

Assist park staff with providing a unique new interpretive experience at Itasca State Park by volunteering as a We Are Water MN exhibit host. This water-themed exhibit will be on display in the Lakeside Museum June 18 - August 10, 2026. We are looking for volunteers who can host multiple shifts throughout the duration of the exhibit. Feel free to sign up with a friend (limit 2 people per shift). 

Impact this position will have:

The We Are Water MN traveling exhibit examines water from a statewide and local perspective through personal stories, historical material, and scientific information, with a special emphasis on waters within Itasca State Park. It strengthens Minnesotans' relationships with water, exposes visitors to new perspectives, and encourages participation in water stewardship activities. As a volunteer exhibit host, you have to opportunity to connect with neighbors from your community and visitors from around the globe to discover the many ways that water impacts, supports, and inspires us. 

Responsibilities (duties and tasks)

Authorized work:

• Attend in-person exhibit host training on June 17, 1-3 PM at the Lake Itasca Amphitheater (moves to the Forest Inn if raining). Please attend if able; other training options can be arranged if you are unable to attend in-person.
• Welcome and orient visitors to the We Are Water MN exhibit upon arrival
• Invite visitors to interact with the exhibit 
• Become familiar with the exhibit in order to answer basic questions, recommend activities, and encourage relevant conversations 
• Become familiar with the exhibit host site (i.e. Itasca State Park) in order to provide basic directions and logistical information
• Promote naturalist programs and events happening in the park
• Ask visitors to fill out a survey when appropriate

Restricted work:

The duties assigned to this volunteer position are laid out above. Tasks pertaining to other programs and projects at Itasca State Park or any other park or trail unit must be agreed upon in a separate Volunteer Agreement form.

Qualifications Desired (education, skill, experience)

• Ability to commit to multiple hosting shifts is preferred. This continuity helps you get comfortable with the exhibit, the host site, and your duties, while reducing the workload that high volunteer turnover places on our staff. 
• Interpersonal skills sufficient to create a welcoming, conversational environment 
• Interest in listening and learning from others
• Interest in environmental science, conservation, or other related topics 
• Experience working with youth and/or adult audiences in a service, outreach, or education setting

Safety training topics to be covered with volunteers: 

• Outdoor Safety

Sign up:

• Complete the online application
• Please note that this application will time out after 30 minutes of no activity
• All days and shifts will be visible when you apply