Volunteer opportunities are available at two Delaware nature reserves – the St. Jones Reserve near Dover and the Blackbird Creek Reserve near Townsend. The two reserves, components of the Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve (DNERR) are state protected areas managed for conservation and research. DNERR provides extensive education and outreach programs on Delaware’s estuarine and coastal areas for students and adults.

According to Harvey Zendt, DNERR volunteer coordinator, several opportunities are available at each location. “The response from people has been excellent, but we could use more help with our conservation programs and educational events” said Zendt. “Volunteers are key to the many projects underway at the reserve. We encourage people to join our efforts and help make a difference on programs that protect our natural resources.”

Adults and high school students interested in volunteering can contact Harvey Zendt, 302-739-3436, ext. 10 or Harvey.Zendt@state.de.us for the following opportunities this winter.

Mounting Plants for the Herbarium – The Reserve is expanding its displays and needs assistance in establishing the herbarium.

Photography – Photographs need to be taken at various public programs and events throughout the year. The Reserve also needs scenery and wildlife photos for all four seasons.

Newsletter – The Reserve publishes a newsletter quarterly and welcomes assistance with writing and graphic design.

Administrative Assistance – During office hours, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, administrative assistance is needed.

Gardening and Outdoor Projects– Assistance is needed with planning out gardening projects for the spring and other outdoor projects.

Education Program Assistance – The Reserve provides programs for all ages throughout the year. We welcome support of various kinds, some requiring training for volunteers who are not familiar with the activities.

Marketing and Outreach – Assistance with promotion and outreach is needed. This work involves representing the Reserve at public outreach events (Coast Day, Delaware State Fair, etc.) and providing support. 

The Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve (DNERR) is a cooperative program between the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, Division of Soil and Water Conservation, Delaware Coastal Programs and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The goal of the program is to establish, protect, and manage natural estuarine habitats for research and education. The DNERR consists of two main components, the Blackbird Creek and St. Jones Reserve. These sites include both brackish and freshwater estuaries, and represent the diverse estuarine ecosystems found throughout the Mid-Atlantic.

For more information on DNERR, visit DNREC’s web site, www.dnrec.delaware.gov and click on “Division of Soil and Water Conservation” and then click on “Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve.”