Written by Linda Pohle, Castlewood Canyon Volunteer

I had no idea what to expect when I joined the Castlewood Canyon State Park Volunteer Naturalist Training Program in 2000. I just knew that Castlewood, a small gem of a park in Douglas County, was a place I wanted to learn more about-and help protect for future generations. Plus, since I assumed this volunteer activity involved putting on hiking boots, I thought it had to be something enjoyable.

The training sessions, spread over several weeks, were interesting, hands-on and participatory, and gave me a good overview of the park, including its rocks, trees, birds, human history, and more. We were encouraged to volunteer in any way we'd like. Birders scheduled bird walks and bluebird nest monitoring. Geologists shared their knowledge of the park's formations with school groups and public programs. Thinking I might be able to learn enough to stay ahead of young children, I developed a few programs for the park's Critter Tales sessions, which are open to three- to six-year-olds. FYI-young children are VERY smart!

No worries if you're short on ideas for ways to volunteer. I was and, even after eight years, still am. The park's Volunteer Coordinator sends emails when she needs specific help and encourages idea sharing in monthly Volunteer Meetings. Here's a sampling of volunteer activities:

· Helping in the Visitor Center.

· Roving Ranger: Walk trails, talk with park visitors, answer questions.

· Weed Warrior: Learn about invasive weeds and help keep them from pushing out Castlewood's natives.

· Lead a school group in one of the park's programs. You'll learn about these in training.

· Lead a hike in the new East Canyon Preservation Area.

· Develop a public program on an area of interest to you.

· Work on park special events such as Dam Days in early August.

How much time are volunteers expected to give to the park? There's really no requirement, but, in return for the training, park management hopes you'll become a member of the 48-Hour Club by the end of the year. You'll earn a free pass for all state parks for the following year, plus have a lot of fun.

Interested in learning more? Come to the Prospective Volunteer meeting on February 23 at 10:00 a.m. in the park's Visitor Center, which is located at 2989 South State Highway 83 (Parker Road). Learn about the opportunities available for volunteers and ask questions about the program. Current volunteers will be on hand to share their experiences. To reserve your place at this meeting, contact Sarah Holton, Park Ranger, at 303-688-5242 or sarah.holton@state.co.us.