INDIANA — The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is inviting Hoosiers to swap screen time for sunshine this season. The Division of Fish & Wildlife has officially opened a call for volunteers to assist with essential maintenance and conservation projects at properties across the state.
Whether you are looking for a solo retreat into nature or a small group activity for friends and family, the DNR offers a variety of flexible roles designed to get people outside and active.
Volunteering with the Division of Fish & Wildlife isn’t just for scientists; many opportunities focus on the “boots-on-the-ground” work that keeps Indiana’s natural areas beautiful and functional.
Current opportunities include:
- Property Maintenance: Trash pick-up, painting, and basic gardening/landscaping.
- Special Events: Assisting at the popular State Fair Fishin’ Pond.
- Community Science: Participating in wildlife monitoring by sharing observations of fish, wildlife, and habitats.
- Custom Projects: The DNR is open to new ideas that match a volunteer’s specific skills and interests.
One of the primary benefits of the program is its flexibility. Volunteers can arrange their positions and schedules directly with a specific property, making it easy to fit service into a busy lifestyle.
The DNR has streamlined the application process through the CERVIS (Community Event Registration and Volunteer Information System) platform.
- Create a Profile: New volunteers should visit the DNR website to create a Volunteer Profile.
- Submit an Agreement: Complete a digital Volunteer Service Agreement (available for both adults and youth under 18). These are fillable PDFs that can be emailed directly to dnrvolunteer@dnr.IN.gov without needing to print.
- Sign Up: Once registered, volunteers can browse the list of current openings and manage their registrations through their online account.
For those with questions or unique project ideas, the Stewardship Outreach Coordinator is available to assist. Call 317-407-5607 or email dnrvolunteer@dnr.IN.gov or find a DNR property near you to get started.
By donating just a few hours, volunteers help ensure that Indiana’s diverse ecosystems remain healthy for generations of hunters, anglers, and nature lovers to come.
