Yolo Basin Foundation

All City of Davis Volunteers must apply to be a volunteer through the City of Davis. The application process includes a background check.

Goal (purpose) of position: To provide tour participants with an interesting and informative experience of the City of Davis Wetlands.

Duties:

Lead Docents: Prior to the tour date, leaders should visit the Davis Wetlands to ascertain where water is, where the birds are, and where to stop during the tour. It is also beneficial for leaders to communicate with tour assistants prior to the tour, introduce themselves if necessary and give each assistant a role on the day. Leaders should arrive a minimum of 15 minutes early and greet everyone. Leaders drive as the lead car on the tour, determine the stops, talk about relevant structures, birds, etc. Try to talk with everyone on the tour if possible. Leaders are also responsible for ensuring that the tour ends on time.

Assistant Docents: Assist leader with gathering group together, sign-in tour participants, share knowledge about wildlife and vegetation, history, provide hand-out materials and information about the Foundation’s programs and activities. Assistant docents help set up scopes, direct the tour participant’s attention to the leader when necessary. There should always be a docent bringing up the rear of the tour car caravan.

Supervised by: YBF Volunteer Coordinator

Time Commitment:Lead or assist on two tours (or more) over a 12-month time frame. Tours run every first Saturday of the month. Tours are 2 hours long.

Qualifications:       An interest in wetlands and local species, especially birds. Enthusiasm for working with the general public. Detailed prior knowledge is not required of assistants but leaders should be experienced birders.

Training:                Davis Wetlands Docents participate in a two-day training. Training includes a tour of the Waste Water Treatment Plant and the Davis Wetlands, how to lead or assist on a tour, basic interpretation techniques, and basic birding techniques. A resource package is provided.

Volunteer Benefits: This position is an excellent way to observe and enjoy the City of Davis Wetlands, while also providing an important service to the general public unfamiliar with the area. Practice your public speaking skills, increase your knowledge of wetland flora and fauna, and gain experience facilitating public tours.