MN State Fair - DNR Building

Accessible Hunting Blind and WMA Exhibit

Be part of an exhibit highlighting the DNR's Wildlife Management Areas (WMA), accessible hunting blinds, and other accessibility features and equipment that the DNR offers to improve access to the outdoors and outdoor recreation in Minnesota.

Volunteers will monitor and provide information about an accessible hunting blind and other elements which reduce barriers to outdoor recreation and enjoyment. Preference will be given to volunteers who are in any way familiar with Minnesota's WMAs or with accessibility features and equipment that improve Minnesota parks and recreation areas.

Purpose and Desired outcomes:

• To highlight Minnesota's WMAs, their benefits, and their uses.
• To showcase the equipment and improvements from the DNR to break barriers and help all Minnesotans get outdoors.
• To share what accessible tools (such as hydraulic hunting blinds) are available, and to explain where and how to find or reserve them.
• Build awareness of accessibility benefits for all.

Benefits to the Volunteer

• All volunteers will receive an admission ticket to the MN State Fair.

Responsibilities (duties and tasks)

Authorized work:

• Report to the office supervisor upstairs in the loft area of the building. They will direct you to the accessibility exhibit (if unable to access upstairs loft, report to the information booth on the North end of the building and ask for the office supervisor for your volunteer shift. They can come down to meet you).
• Wear an official red volunteer vest that is provided (please return after your shift).
• Stand and/or sit near the accessible hydraulic hunting blind, or in the DNR building as directed.
• Monitor the exhibit to keep visitors and equipment safe.
• Share information about and/or experience with the DNR’s accessibility improvement with exhibit visitors.
• Hand out documentation about WMAs and accessible equipment, or direct visitors to where resources are available.
• Report any problems to the office supervisor or building coordinator on duty at the time of your shift.

Restricted work:

• Do not replace staff or other volunteers at different exhibits/booths.
• Do not voice any personal opinions or views when speaking with the public. You are representing the DNR in a professional capacity as a volunteer and must remain neutral on all topics. 

Qualifications needed:

• Must be 16 years of age or older
• Must pass a criminal background check (adults 18+ years only)
• Be friendly and outgoing
• Able to work in hot and humid conditions without air conditioning
• Familiarity with accessibility improvements or equipment not required, but helpful.

 State Fair Safety Training

• All volunteers must complete an online safety training quiz to be eligible to work at the Minnesota State Fair. 
• Please go to the DNR State Fair Safety Training page for instructions.

Minimum Time Commitment: 

• One or more 3-hour shifts in a day (9 AM - 12 PM, 12-3 PM, or 3-6 PM)

DNR Contact Person: Renee Vail, Volunteer Program Director

Sign up:

• Complete the online application
• Select your day and 3-hour time slot on the fair schedule.
• Shifts are set at one person per shift; contact Renée Vail at renee.vail@state.mn.us to inquiry for a friend or spouse to accompany you
• Please note that this application will time out after 30 minutes of no activity and your answers will not be saved.