If you are looking for a way to give back to wildlife or just to help out some organizations doing good work for Arizona, here’s a project that can use your help.

June 13-14: Elk habitat improvement project (water catchment & fencing)

Who: Arizona Elk Society (AES)

What: Burro Creek Fence Removal and 26 Bar Adopt-A-Ranch Work Project
We need approximately 80-100 people to accomplish these projects.

When: June 13-14. Due to the remote location, it is suggested that volunteers come up on Friday and camp. Be sure to RSVP because AES will provide dinner on Friday evening, 3 meals on Saturday, and breakfast on Sunday morning. Breakfast will be at 7 a.m. and we will meet at camp at 8 a.m. to start working. Volunteers should plan on working until late afternoon on Saturday. Crews may also work on Sunday morning.

Where: Main Camp will be at Rudd Knoll campsite three miles north of Crescent Lake, SW of Springerville. From Show Low, take Highway 260 east toward Springerville, turn south on paved Highway 273 (3 miles east of Springerville) and head south 17 miles. Look for signs at campsite on left side of the road. This is primitive camping (there are no facilities). Camping is also available at Big Lake campground. Meals and meetings will take place at Rudd Knoll Camping area.

Description: Volunteers are needed to help with two AES work projects, south of Eager. On this weekend, AES will split its volunteers to tackle two projects that will benefit wildlife. An Adopt-a-Ranch project in cooperation with the 26 Bar Ranch will involve repairing a 20,000 gallon water catchment. The other crew will remove up to 6 miles of fence from the Burro Creek Allotment east of Big Lake. We need approximately 80-100 people to accomplish these projects.

This project will be near Big Lake, so be prepared for cool mornings and possibly rain. Please bring pliers, gloves, and wire cutters if you have them. Some of these items will also be provided. Please make sure you bring appropriate hats, long sleeve shirts, sunblock, etc. for sun protection. Old clothes would be recommended for those grinding on the tanks. Rubber boots will be needed for those that can work in the tanks.

We are a family oriented organization; however projects are potentially dangerous working with barbed wire, power tools and vehicles. Kids under 18 need to be supervised by an adult.

This project will involve hiking and physical labor. Training will be provided. There is a very good chance of seeing lots of wildlife during this project. if you would like to carpool to save on expenses and driving, please contact Tom Schorr. There may also be extra sleeping areas in tents or trailers available.

Contact: Please RSVP to Tom Schorr thomas.schorr@fcssw.com or (602) 431-4131.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s volunteer program provides opportunities for volunteers to participate firsthand in managing Arizona’s wildlife resources. Our goal is to provide you with a congenial and cooperative atmosphere where you can build relationships with staff and other volunteers, as well as gain knowledge about Arizona wildlife and wildlife management. We recognize that your time is important and strive to provide rewarding and educational volunteer experiences.

For a list of volunteer opportunities in which you may have an interest, or to submit information about a project that would benefit from our volunteers, visit the department’s volunteer Web page at:

www.azgfd.gov/volunteer

The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s volunteer program provides opportunities for volunteers to participate firsthand in managing Arizona’s wildlife resources. Our goal is to provide you with a congenial and cooperative atmosphere where you can build relationships with staff and other volunteers, as well as gain knowledge about Arizona wildlife and wildlife management. We recognize that your time is important and strive to provide rewarding and educational volunteer experiences.

For a list of volunteer opportunities in which you may have an interest, or to submit information about a project that would benefit from our volunteers, visit the department’s volunteer Web page at:

www.azgfd.gov/volunteer

The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s volunteer program provides opportunities for volunteers to participate firsthand in managing Arizona’s wildlife resources. Our goal is to provide you with a congenial and cooperative atmosphere where you can build relationships with staff and other volunteers, as well as gain knowledge about Arizona wildlife and wildlife management. We recognize that your time is important and strive to provide rewarding and educational volunteer experiences.

For a list of volunteer opportunities in which you may have an interest or to submit information about a project that would benefit from our volunteers, visit the deparment’s volunteer Web page at:

www.azgfd.gov/volunteer

The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s volunteer program provides opportunities for volunteers to participate firsthand in managing Arizona’s wildlife resources. Our goal is to provide you with a congenial and cooperative atmosphere where you can build relationships with staff and other volunteers, as well as gain knowledge about Arizona wildlife and wildlife management. We recognize that your time is important and strive to provide rewarding and educational volunteer experiences.

Listed below are some opportunities in which you may have an interest. To learn about other opportunities or to submit information about a project that would benefit from our volunteers, check our volunteer page at:

www.azgfd.gov/volunteer

Sept. 13
29th Annual Lower Salt River Clean-Up, near Saguaro Lake
Pre-register online or register at the clean up site between 7-9 a.m.
General trash clean up and removal to benefit wildlife.
Contact Sheryl Yerkovich: (480) 610-3332 or syerkovich@fs.fed.us

Oct. 18
Sycamore Mesa fence modification (GMU 21) – Arizona Antelope Foundation, near Cordes Junction
Modifying fence to make it pronghorn/wildlife friendly. Volunteers are encouraged to bring ATV’s/Rangers/Rhinos because the site road is not very good. The AAF will provide a free steak dinner on Saturday night.
Contact Scott Anderson:(480) 213-1611 or info@azantelope.org.

Ongoing
Volunteer Boating Safety Education Program Instructor, statewide
Teach boating education and safety. 35 to 40 applicants are needed. Must be 18 or older, have valid Arizona drivers license, solid boating experience and have completed the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Boat Arizona course. Background check will be performed for certification.
Contact Ed Huntsman: ehuntsman@azgfd.gov or (623) 236-7237.

Ongoing
Environmental Educator, statewide
This volunteer position will include training in basic animal handling and public presentations. Work at the center may involve lifting up to 50 pounds, interacting with the public, inclement weather and handling live animals. Special notes: We are looking for individuals with strong public speaking backgrounds, possibly retired teachers or college students pursuing a career in education. Valid Arizona driver’s license required.
Contact Kellie Tharp: ktharp@azgfd.gov or (623) 236-7238.

Ongoing
Adobe Mountain Wildlife Center Volunteer, Phoenix
Assist with the daily care and maintenance of the resident education animals including: beak trim, talon trim, weight, and medicine logs, preparing diets, cleaning of enclosures and more. Work may involve lifting up to 50 pounds, interacting with the public, inclement weather and handling live animals.
Contact Kellie Tharp: ktharp@azgfd.gov or (623) 236-7238.

Late May through Labor Day Weekend 2009
Sipe Wildlife Area Seasonal Host, near Eager
Open and close visitors center (VC), oversee security of VC facilities. Answer the public’s wildlife and recreational related questions. Greet, provide literature, give directions and provide information and assistance to visitors of the wildlife area. Identify and report any cleaning and maintenance needs to area manager. No experience necessary. Must have own travel trailer or motor home. Water, electricity, sewer, parking pad provided. May hook up satellite TV at own cost.
Contact Brian Crawford: (928) 333-4518, or sipecrawford@yahoo.com.

Immediate: April 1, 2008 – October 31, 2008
Tonto Creek Hatchery Summer Host, near Payson
Live on site, assist with facility maintenance and interact with visitors. Good communication and interpersonal skills required and enjoy talking with different types of people, be able to provide excellent customer service, and accept and follow supervision/instruction from hatchery employees. Accommodations along with fresh water, electrical, propane and septic are provided.
Contact John Diehl: (928) 478-4200 or thatchery@cybertrails.com.

Immediate: April 15, 2008 – ongoing
Upper Verde River Host, near Chino Valley
Host duties include interacting with visitors, picking up litter, cleaning visitor restrooms, and other duties as needed. Knowledge of birding and Arizona wildlife is a plus. Host should have good communication and interpersonal skills, and accept and follow supervision/instruction from manager. A recreational vehicle site with water, propane, and septic is provided.
Contact Jeff Pebworth: (928) 692-7700 or jpeworth@azgfd.gov.

Year round
Range Safety Officers at Ben Avery Shooting Facility, Phoenix
Range Safety Officer (RSO) responsibilities include checking the safe condition of customer firearms, observing participants while they are shooting on the range, maintaining safe operation of the shooting line, and providing superior customer service by answering customer questions about firearms.
Contact Matthew Schwartzkopf: MSchwartzkopf@azgfd.gov or (602) 904-2622.

Ongoing, Saturdays
Page Springs Wildlife Area Trail Maintenance, near Sedona
Assist with trail maintenance, using hand tools such as rakes, shovels and clippers. This is a cooperative project with the Northern Audubon Society.
Contact Gene Okamoto: psh@sedona.net or (928) 634-4805

Ongoing: Monthly, 1st and 3rd Thursday, evenings
Volunteer Shotgun Instructor or Range Officer for Women’s Shooting Program, Phoenix
Volunteers will instruct women of all ages in the shotgun shooting sports. Coaches will assist beginners in shotgun shooting form and skill. Range Safety Officers will watch over range and ensure safety among all participants. Instructors will teach, and assist in teaching, or proctor the hour-long introductory class. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and participate in a free-of-charge Shotgun Instructor Certification process (2-day class). It is desirable, but not necessary, that instructors have shooting experience, basic knowledge of firearms and firearms safety, and some teaching/public speaking experience. Benefits to volunteers include free shooting at the main range and discounts at local sporting goods locations.
Contact Fred Jeffers: (623) 262-4623 or fjeffers@azgfd.gov.

By Les Bell, volunteer coordinator, Arizona Game and Fish Department

The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s volunteer program provides opportunities for volunteers to participate firsthand in managing Arizona’s wildlife resources. Our goal is to provide you with a congenial and cooperative atmosphere where you can build relationships with staff and other volunteers, as well as gain knowledge about Arizona wildlife and wildlife management. We recognize that your time is important and strive to provide rewarding and educational volunteer experiences.

Listed below are some opportunities in which you may have an interest. To learn about other opportunities or to submit information about a project that would benefit from our volunteers, check our volunteer page at:

www.azgfd.gov/volunteer

Immediate until completed
Data entry – Bat Project, North Phoenix
The candidate will report to AGFD Phoenix headquarters and be responsible for data entry of Legacy reports into AGFD Bats database. Knowledge of Microsoft office (Word, Excel), understanding of mapping and TOPO is a plus; database entry experience desired but will train. Contact: Nancy Renison, bat biologist, at NRenison@azgfd.gov, (623) 236-7529.

Ongoing (primarily weekends but some weekdays)
Environmental Educator
Training in basic animal handling and public presentations. Routinely work at the Arizona Game and Fish Wildlife Center booth educating the public about wildlife during weekend events and in many cases to take animals into the classrooms and teach about wildlife conservation. Work may involve lifting up to 50 pounds, interacting with the public, inclement weather and handling live animals. Valid Arizona driver’s license required. Contact: Kellie Tharp, ktharp@azgfd.gov, (623) 236-7238

July 26 – 27
Arizona Antelope Foundation White Mountains Habitat Project
Volunteers will be removing small juniper and pinyon trees near Sipe Wildlife Area, south of Springerville. This is primarily a one-day project, however, work will be conducted on Sunday if willing volunteers wish to. The AAF will provide a free steak dinner to all volunteers on Saturday night. To RSVP for dinner and for more information, please visit www.azantelope.org. Contact: Scott Anderson (480) 213-1611, info@azantelope.org.

April 1 – October 31
Summer Host – Tonto Creek Hatchery, Payson
Wildlife area hosts live on site, assist with facility maintenance and interact with visitors. Additional duties include providing change for feed machines, cleaning visitor restrooms, and other duties as needed. Hosts are on duty from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. on weekends and holidays, and on weekdays when there are large groups of visitors. Host should have good communication and interpersonal skills, enjoy talking with different types of people, be able to provide excellent customer service, and accept and follow supervision/instruction from hatchery employees. Accommodations along with fresh water, electrical, propane and septic are provided. To provide references and be interviewed via phone, contact Les Bell at (623) 236-7680 or lbell@azgfd.gov.

Late May – Labor Day Weekend 2009
Sipe Wildlife Area Seasonal Host
Open and close Visitors Center (VC), oversee security of VC facilities. Answer the public’s wildlife and recreational related questions. Greet, provide literature, give directions and provide information and assistance to visitors of the Wildlife Area. No experience necessary. Must be good with people. Must have own travel trailer or motor home. Water, electricity, sewer, parking pad provided. May hook up satellite TV at own cost. Absolutely beautiful hiking trails, great opportunity to see wildlife, especially birds and elk. Seven miles from small towns of Springerville, Eagar. Right in the heart of the White Mountains, close to fishing, hiking, camping and great outdoor recreational activities. Temperature in the 70- to 80-degree range during the day. Cool in the evenings. Contact: Brian Crawford, Sipe Wildlife Area Manager, at (928) 333-4518, sipecrawford@yahoo.com.

Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Page Springs Wildlife Area Trail Maintenance
Volunteers assist with trail maintenance, using hand tools such as rakes, shovels and clippers. This is a cooperative project with the Northern Arizona Audubon Society. Contact Les Bell at lbell@azgfd.gov or (623) 236-7680.

First and third Thursday every month, 7-10 p.m. – Volunteer Shotgun Instructor or Range Officer for Women’s Shooting Program
Volunteers will instruct women of all ages in the shotgun shooting sports. Coaches will assist beginners in shotgun shooting form and skill. Range Safety Officers will watch over range and ensure safety among all participants. Applicants must be at least 21 years old. Shooting experience, basic knowledge of firearms and firearms safety, and some teaching/public speaking experience desired, but not required.Benefits to volunteers include free shooting at the main range and discounts at local sporting goods locations. Contact Ben Avery Shooting Facility at (623) 582-8313.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s volunteer program provides opportunities for volunteers to participate firsthand in managing Arizona’s wildlife resources. Our goal is to provide you with a congenial and cooperative atmosphere where you can build relationships with staff and other volunteers, as well as gain knowledge about Arizona wildlife and wildlife management. We recognize that your time is important and strive to provide rewarding and educational volunteer experiences.

We’ve listed some opportunities in which you may have an interest. To learn about other opportunities or to submit information about a project that would benefit from our volunteers, check our volunteer page at www.azgfd.gov/volunteer.

Immediate until completed – Database entry Bat Project, North Phoenix
The candidate will report to AGFD Phoenix headquarters and be responsible for data entry of Legacy reports into AGFD Bats database. Knowledge of Microsoft office (Word, Excel), understanding of mapping and TOPO is a plus; Database entry experience desired but will train. Contact: Nancy Renison, bat biologist, at NRenison@azgfd.gov, (623) 236-7529.

April 1 – October 31
Summer Host – Tonto Creek Hatchery, Payson
Wildlife area hosts live on site, assist with facility maintenance and interact with visitors. Additional duties include providing change for feed machines, cleaning visitor restrooms, and other duties as needed. Hosts are on duty from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. on weekends and holidays, and on weekdays when there are large groups of visitors. Host should have good communication and interpersonal skills, enjoy talking with different types of people, be able to provide excellent customer service, and accept and follow supervision/instruction from hatchery employees. Accommodations along with fresh water, electrical, propane and septic are provided. To provide references and be interviewed via phone, contact Les Bell at (623) 236-7680 or lbell@azgfd.gov.

Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Page Springs Wildlife Area Trail Maintenance
Volunteers assist with trail maintenance, using hand tools such as rakes, shovels and clippers. This is a cooperative project with the Northern Arizona Audubon Society. Contact Les Bell at lbell@azgfd.gov or (623) 236-7680.

First and third Thursday every month, 7-10 p.m. – Volunteer Shotgun Instructor or Range Officer for Women’s Shooting Program
Volunteers will instruct women of all ages in the shotgun shooting sports. Coaches will assist beginners in shotgun shooting form and skill. Range Safety Officers will watch over range and ensure safety among all participants. Applicants must be at least 21 years old. Shooting experience, basic knowledge of firearms and firearms safety, and some teaching/public speaking experience desired, but not required.Benefits to volunteers include free shooting at the main range and discounts at local sporting goods locations. Contact Ben Avery Shooting Facility at (623) 582-8313.

Year round – Range Safety Officers at Ben Avery Shooting Facility
Responsibilities include checking the safe condition of customer firearms, observing participants while they are shooting on the range, maintaining safe operation of the shooting line, and providing superior customer service by answering customer questions about firearms. Contact Les Bell at lbell@azgfd.gov or (623) 236-7680.

April 15 to ongoing – Upper Verde River Wildlife Area Host, 8 miles NW of Chino Valley
Host should enjoy talking with different types of people, be able to provide excellent customer service, and accept and follow supervision/instruction from manager. Host duties include interacting with visitors, picking up litter, cleaning visitor restrooms, and other duties as needed. Knowledge of birding and Arizona wildlife is a plus. Applicants will need to provide references and will be interviewed via a phone interview with manager. Contact Les Bell at lbell@azgfd.gov or (623) 236-7680.

April 26 & 27 – Paria Point Wildlife Catchment Redevelopment, north of Flagstaff and west of Page
Volunteers and equipment will be helicoptered to and from the staging area/ camping area each day. Redevelopment includes taking apart the existing wildlife catchment and fence, cutting some trees, digging with a shovel, cutting pipes and other materials, and building a new wildlife catchment. Contact Sophia Fong, 12B wildlife manager at (928) 645-6843, or email SFong@azgfd.gov.

May 2, 3, 4 – AGFD Turtle Trapping, Papago Park / Phoenix Zoo
The pond in the park is full of exotic turtles, and in an effort to eradicate them or from expanding into nearby waterways, we will be trapping turtles and removing all female turtles. The removed turtles will be turned over to Phoenix Herpetological Society so they can be placed into responsible homes. Contact Audrey Owens at (623) 236-7504, or e-mail aowens@azgfd.gov.

May 17 & 18 – Arizona Antelope Foundation fence project, Flagstaff
Volunteers will be removing the pasture fences and maintaining the allotment boundary fence on the Lake Mary Allotment. A free steak dinner is provided for all volunteers on Saturday night. Contact Henry Provencio at (928) 214-2436, or e-mail hprovencio@fs.fed.us.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s volunteer program provides opportunities for volunteers to participate firsthand in managing Arizona’s wildlife resources. Our goal is to provide you with a congenial and cooperative atmosphere where you can build relationships with staff and other volunteers, as well as gain knowledge about Arizona wildlife and wildlife management. We recognize that your time is important and strive to provide rewarding and educational volunteer experiences.

We’ve listed some opportunities in which you may have an interest. To learn about other opportunities or to submit information about a project that would benefit from our volunteers, check our volunteer page at www.azgfd.gov/volunteer.

March 15
Reclaim of Wildcat Road near Yellowjacket Creek
The Arizona Antelope Foundation is coordinating this project and will provide a free steak dinner to all volunteers on Saturday night.

This project will involve moving rocks, signing, spreading juniper limbs, digging, and whatever else we can do to cut off two ends of a wildcat road that was started a number of years ago. Folks may want to bring a pick and shovel if they have them.

For more information please visit:
www.azantelope.org or contact Scott Anderson at (480) 213-1611.

March 15 & 16
Tres Rios Nature and Earth Festival
The event focuses on the rich diversity of wildlife, habitat, history and culture of the Gila River drainage. Volunteers are needed for information booth, hospitality, educational area, parking lot, fishing clinic, canoe clinic, clean up and nature trail.

For more information contact: Angela Vasiloff, Volunteer Coordinator (623) 204-2130 or angela_duleno@hotmail.com.
www.tresriosnaturefestival.com

March 20-24
Black-footed ferret spring spotlighting project
The Black-footed Ferret Project is planning another large spotlighting effort. Spotlighting involves the use of high-powered lights to locate black-footed ferrets, for capture, tagging, health check and re-releasing for management purposes of this endangered species.

To register and for more details, contact:
azferret@azgfd.gov

March – immediate
Adobe Mountain Wildlife Center
Volunteers needed to assist 5 hours a week minimum with general office, typing, filing, data entry, organization of paperwork and supplies. Work will be done indoors, mostly sitting with some standing and walking.

Contact: ktharp@azgfd.gov or (623) 236-7238

March – Immediate
Shotgun instructors and range safety officers for women’s classes
Instructors will assist women of all ages in shotgun shooting sports. Range safety officers will watch over the range and ensure safety among all participants. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and participate in a free-of-charge Shotgun Instructor Certification process (two-day class). It is desirable, but not necessary, that instructors have shooting experience, basic knowledge of firearms and firearms safety, and some teaching/public speaking experience.

For more information, contact: (623) 582-8313

March – Year round
Ben Avery Shooting Facility – Range safety officers needed
Responsibilities include checking the safe condition of customer firearms, observing participants while they are shooting on the range, maintaining safe operation of the shooting line, and providing superior customer service by answering customer questions about firearms. Volunteers shoot for free

Contact Volunteer Coordinator Les Bell at (623) 236-7680.

April 1 – October 31
Summer Host – Tonto Creek Hatchery, Payson
Wildlife area host live on site, assist with facility maintenance and interact with visitors. Additional duties include providing change for feed machines, cleaning visitor restrooms, and other duties as needed. Hosts are on duty from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. on weekends and holidays, and on weekdays when there are large groups of visitors. Host should have good communication and interpersonal skills, enjoy talking with different types of people, be able to provide excellent customer service, and accept and follow supervision/instruction from hatchery employees. Accommodations along with fresh water, electrical, propane and septic are provided.

To provide references and be interviewed via phone, contact Les Bell at (623) 236-7680 or lbell@azgfd.gov.

Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Page Springs Wildlife Area Trail Maintenance
Volunteers assist with trail maintenance, using hand tools such as rakes, shovels and clippers. This is a cooperative project with the Northern Audubon Society.

For more information, contact Les Bell at: lbell@azgfd.gov or (623) 236-7680.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s volunteer program provides opportunities for volunteers to participate firsthand in managing Arizona’s wildlife resources. Our goal is to provide you with a congenial and cooperative atmosphere where you can build relationships with staff and other volunteers, as well as gain knowledge about Arizona wildlife and wildlife management. We recognize that your time is important and strive to provide rewarding and educational volunteer experiences.

We’ve listed some opportunities in which you may have an interest. To learn about other opportunities or to submit information about a project that would benefit from our volunteers, check our volunteer page at www.azgfd.gov/volunteer.

Canyon Lake Fish Habitat Enhancement Project
This project involves the construction of fish habitat to benefit largemouth and smallmouth bass, sunfish, catfish, crappie, as well as provide fishing “hotspots” for the angling public. The work will utilize wooden pallets, cement blocks and juniper trees to build “pisces pyramids” during a scheduled 50-foot drawdown of the lake. Volunteers will help load and transport materials to work sites around the lake via boats and construct habitat units on the dry lakebed at pre-selected sites. Work hours will be from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. during the work dates. Volunteers are asked to bring their own gloves, beverages, meals and appropriate clothing to suit the winter weather and must schedule work dates by calling the habitat project coordinator. Dates are Nov. 17 – Dec. 16, (Friday-Sunday weekend days) at Canyon Lake, Palo Verde Recreation Site, located 32 miles east of Mesa on Highway 88 (Apache Trail). Contact Habitat Project Coordinator Natalie Robb at (480) 324-3541 or by e-mail at nrobb@azgfd.gov. Or contact Arizona Game and Fish Department volunteer coordinator Les Bell at (623) 236-7680.

Black-footed ferret spring spotlighing project

The Black-footed Ferret Project is planning another large spotlighting effort for the nights of March 20-24, 2008. Please sign up early, as space is limited and people had to be turned away last event.

Requirements for spotlighting:

• stay attentive from sunset to sunrise.
• carry up to 30-pound backpack for two-hour durations
• use or learn how to use a GPS unit

What is involved?
Spotlighting involves the use of high-powered lights to locate and identify black-footed ferrets. Once a ferret is located, a trap is set in the burrow. When the animal is caught the ferret is delivered to a process trailer. This will allow the team a once in a lifetime opportunity to view a ferret up close while the biologists processes the animal. The animal’s health will be assessed and a passive integrated transponder (PIT) tag inserted subcutaneously. PIT tags allow us to individually identify animals upon recapture. The ferret is then released into the same burrow where it was trapped.

Gear can be a limiting factor for the number of people that may attend, if you have any of the following, please bring it for your use:

• Headlamp or flashlight (these will not be provided)
• GPS unit
• Pen (to record data)
• Compass (to record direction that trap is set)
• Binoculars
• Appropriate clothing **
• High clearance vehicle, 4×4 (mileage is tax deductible)

** Multiple layers are best, as March nights can be cold, but you will warm up while backpack spotlighting. Raingear is highly recommended. Also, be sure to bring plenty of snacks and water. Snacking throughout the night will help you to stay awake.

To sign up for the spotlighting event or if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact azferret@azgfd.gov.

Volunteer shotgun instructors and range safety officers for women’s shotgun shooting program
Volunteers will instruct women of all ages in the shotgun shooting sports as prescribed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Coaches will assist beginners in shotgun shooting form and skill. Range safety officers will watch over the range and ensure safety among all participants. Instructors will teach, and assist in teaching, or proctor the hour-long introductory class. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and participate in a free-of-charge Shotgun Instructor Certification process (two-day class). It is desirable, but not necessary, that instructors have shooting experience, basic knowledge of firearms and firearms safety, and some teaching/public speaking experience. Benefits to volunteers include free shooting at the main range and discounts at local sporting goods locations. The women’s shotgun shooting program will be held the first and third Thursday of each month from approximately 7-9:30 p.m. The program is held at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility main range (range time is held at the Ben Avery Clay Target Center). Entrance is just west of I-17 (Exit 223) on Carefree Highway. For more information, contact (623) 582-8313.

Range safety officers needed at Ben Avery Shooting Facility
Responsibilities include checking the safe condition of customer firearms, observing participants while they are shooting on the range, maintaining safe operation of the shooting line, and providing superior customer service by answering customer questions about firearms. Volunteers shoot for free at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility, located just west of I-17 and Carefree Highway in north Phoenix. Contact Arizona Game and Fish Department Volunteer Coordinator Les Bell at (623) 236-7680.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s volunteer program provides opportunities for volunteers to participate firsthand in managing Arizona’s wildlife resources. Our goal is to provide you with a congenial and cooperative atmosphere where you can build relationships with staff and other volunteers, as well as gain knowledge about Arizona wildlife and wildlife management. We recognize that your time is important and strive to provide rewarding and educational volunteer experiences.

We’ve listed some opportunities in which you may have an interest. To learn about other opportunities or to submit information about a project that would benefit from our volunteers, check our volunteer page at azgfd.gov/volunteer.

Perry Mesa Fence Modification, Oct. 20
This project will be held at Horseshoe Ranch north of Phoenix. Volunteers will be modifying a fence on the north end of Perry Mesa (movement corridor to the Cornstalk Flat area). The fence is currently a six-wire barbed fence with a bottom wire about 8 to 10 inches above the ground. The Bureau of Land Management and the Arizona Game and Fish Department will be supplying the materials. We will try to get a couple of miles done if we have enough volunteers. The Arizona Antelope Foundation is coordinating this project. The AAF will provide a free steak dinner to all volunteers on Saturday night. For more information, please visit www.azantelope.org or contact Scott Anderson at (480) 213-1611.

Volunteer Shotgun Instructors or Range Officers for Women’s Shooting Program
Volunteers will instruct women of all ages in the shotgun shooting sports as prescribed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Coaches will assist beginners in shotgun shooting form and skill. Range Safety Officers will watch over the range and ensure safety among all participants. Instructors will teach, and assist in teaching, or proctor the hour-long introductory class. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and participate in a free-of-charge Shotgun Instructor Certification process (2-day class). It is desirable, but not necessary, that instructors have shooting experience, basic knowledge of firearms and firearms safety, and some teaching/public speaking experience. Benefits to volunteers include free shooting at the main range and discounts at local sporting goods locations. The women’s shotgun shooting program will be held the first and third Thursday of each month from approximately 6:30-9 p.m. (exact times are yet to be determined and will be posted on the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Web site). The program will be held at the Ben Avery Clay Target Center; entrance is about 1/2 mile west of I-17 (Exit 223) on Carefree Highway. For more information, contact (623) 582-8313.

Range safety officers needed at Ben Avery Shooting Facility
Responsibilities include checking the safe condition of customer firearms, observing participants while they are shooting on the range, maintaining safe operation of the shooting line, and providing superior customer service by answering customer questions about firearms. Volunteers shoot for free at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility, located just west of I-17 and Carefree Highway in north Phoenix. Contact Arizona Game and Fish Department Volunteer Coordinator at (623) 236-7680.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s volunteer program provides opportunities for volunteers to participate firsthand in managing Arizona’s wildlife resources. Our goal is to provide you with a congenial and cooperative atmosphere where you can build relationships with staff and other volunteers, as well as gain knowledge about Arizona wildlife and wildlife management. We recognize that your time is important and strive to provide rewarding and educational volunteer experiences.

We’ve listed some opportunities in which you may have an interest. To learn about other opportunities or to submit information about a project that would benefit from our volunteers, check our volunteer page at azgfd.gov/volunteer.

Anderson Mesa Habitat Restoration, Aug. 11
Volunteers will remove fence at Corner Lake to improve habitat for antelope and other grasslands species. Some tools will be available, but please bring your own if you have them. Meet at 8 a.m. at the Mormon Lake Ranger District. For more information, contact Henry Provencio, Coconino National Forest, (928) 214-2436.

Unit 9 Water Catchment Project, Aug. 24-26
This project will repair an old concrete catchment by replacing the concrete with three new fiberglass storage tanks and a new drinker. Barbed wire fence surrounding the catchment will be replaced with a new pipe rail fence. One or two welders are needed. There will be no drinking water or toilets available. Road access, if dry, is good for all types of vehicles and trailers. If roads are very wet, high clearance vehicles and/or 4WD will be needed. The Arizona Elk Society will be providing meals and refreshments for Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast, lunch and dinner and breakfast on Sunday. This project may be canceled on short notice, due to forest road closures. All volunteers must RSVP so they can be informed of updates or cancellation. To RSVP and for additional information, contact Greg Stainton (602) 999-5855 or gstainton3@cox.net.

Lazy B Ranch Exclosure Construction, Oct. 13-14
This project will be held at the Lazy B Ranch in Game Management Unit 28. Volunteers will be building an exclosure fence to improve fawning cover and food availability. Approximately four miles of fencing will need to be strung and posts put in the ground. This is a big undertaking, so we need all the volunteers we can get. The Arizona Antelope Foundation is coordinating this project. The AAF will provide a free steak dinner to all volunteers on Saturday night. For more information, please visit www.azantelope.org or contact Scott Anderson at (480) 213-1611.

Perry Mesa Fence Modification, Oct. 20
This project will be held at Horseshoe Ranch north of Phoenix. Volunteers will be modifying a fence on the north end of Perry Mesa (movement corridor to the Cornstalk Flat area). The fence is currently a six-wire barbed fence with a bottom wire about 8 to 10 inches above the ground. The Bureau of Land Management and the Arizona Game and Fish Department will be supplying the materials. We will try to get a couple of miles done if we have enough volunteers. The Arizona Antelope Foundation is coordinating this project. The AAF will provide a free steak dinner to all volunteers on Saturday night. For more information, please visit www.azantelope.org or contact Scott Anderson at (480) 213-1611.

Volunteer Shotgun Instructors or Range Officers for Women’s Shooting Program
Volunteers will instruct women of all ages in the shotgun shooting sports as prescribed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Coaches will assist beginners in shotgun shooting form and skill. Range Safety Officers will watch over the range and ensure safety among all participants. Instructors will teach, and assist in teaching, or proctor the hour-long introductory class. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and participate in a free-of-charge Shotgun Instructor Certification process (2-day class). It is desirable, but not necessary, that instructors have shooting experience, basic knowledge of firearms and firearms safety, and some teaching/public speaking experience. Benefits to volunteers include free shooting at the main range and discounts at local sporting goods locations. The women’s shotgun shooting program will be held the first and third Thursday of each month from approximately 6:30-9 p.m. (exact times are yet to be determined and will be posted on the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Web site). The program is anticipated to begin in early to mid-September 2007 and will be held at the Ben Avery Clay Target Center; entrance is about 1/2 mile west of I-17 (Exit 223) on Carefree Highway. For more information, contact (623) 582-8313.

Range safety officers needed at Ben Avery Shooting Facility
Responsibilities include checking the safe condition of customer firearms, observing participants while they are shooting on the range, maintaining safe operation of the shooting line, and providing superior customer service by answering customer questions about firearms. Volunteers shoot for free at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility, located just west of I-17 and Carefree Highway in north Phoenix. Contact Arizona Game and Fish Department Volunteer Coordinator Sandy Reith at (623) 236-7680.

We’ve listed some opportunities in which you may have an interest. To learn about other opportunities or to submit information about a project that would benefit from our volunteers, check our volunteer page at azgfd.gov/volunteer.

Summer host wanted for Tonto Creek Hatchery, mid-May through Oct. 31
The Arizona Game and Fish Department is seeking a volunteer to serve as host at the Tonto Creek Fish Hatchery from mid-May through Oct. 31, 2007. The hatchery is located off Highway 260, about 20 miles east of Payson, in north-central Arizona. The hatchery host interacts with visitors and assists staff with hatchery duties and maintenance, including picking up litter, cleaning visitor restrooms, providing change for feed machines, and other duties as needed. The host is on duty from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends and holidays, and on weekdays when there are large groups of visitors. Interested candidates should have good communication and interpersonal skills, enjoy talking with different types of people, be able to provide excellent customer service, and accept and follow supervision and instruction from hatchery employees. If you would like to apply, please contact Sandy Reith, Arizona Game and Fish Department volunteer coordinator, at (623) 236-7680 or sreith@azgfd.gov.

2nd Annual Burro Creek Fence Removal project, May 18-20
Volunteers will remove 5+ miles of unneeded fencing for the benefit of wildlife at Burro Creek, near Big Lake in northeastern Arizona. The Arizona Elk Society is coordinating this project. They will also provide snacks and food, so please R.S.V.P. if you plan to attend. To sign up or for more information, contact thomas.schorr@fcssw.com.

26 Bar Adopt-A-Ranch Project, June 1-3
Volunteers will complete improvements on two springs to improve flow/storage for the benefit of wildlife and the ranch, near Springerville. The Arizona Elk Society is coordinating this project. To sign up or for more information, contact Troy Christensen at tchristensen@azgfd.gov or (623) 236-7492.

Range safety officers needed at Ben Avery Shooting Facility
Responsibilities include checking the safe condition of customer firearms, observing participants while they are shooting on the range, maintaining safe operation of the shooting line, and providing superior customer service by answering customer questions about firearms. Volunteers shoot for free at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility, located just west of I-17 and Carefree Highway in north Phoenix. Contact Arizona Game and Fish Department Volunteer Coordinator Sandy Reith at (623) 236-7680.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s volunteer program provides opportunities for volunteers to participate firsthand in managing Arizona’s wildlife resources. Our goal is to provide you with a congenial and cooperative atmosphere where you can build relationships with staff and other volunteers, as well as gain knowledge about Arizona wildlife and wildlife management. We recognize that your time is important and strive to provide rewarding and educational volunteer experiences.

We’ve listed some opportunities in which you may have an interest. To learn about other opportunities or to submit information about a project that would benefit from our volunteers, check our volunteer page at azgfd.gov/volunteer.

Alamo Lake Cleanup, March 3
Volunteers will help clean up litter around the lake from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Alamo Lake State Park, northwest of Wickenburg. Please R.S.V.P. to Stewart Kohnke at skohnke@azgfd.gov or (928) 684-3763.

Adopt-A-Ranch Project: Riparian Restoration at Griffin Ranch, April 7
Volunteers will help restore riparian habitat on the ranch, near Globe. The event is sponsored by the Arizona Predator Callers. To sign up or for more information, contact Troy Christensen at tchristensen@azgfd.gov or (623) 236-7492.

Adopt-A-Ranch Project: Boquillas Ranch Cleanup, June 23
Volunteers will help clean up wildlife habitat and remove litter from the ranch, near Seligman. The event is sponsored by the Mohave Sportsman Club. To sign up or for more information, contact Troy Christensen at tchristensen@azgfd.gov or (623) 236-7492.

Range safety officers needed at Ben Avery Shooting Facility
Responsibilities include checking the safe condition of customer firearms, observing participants while they are shooting on the range, maintaining safe operation of the shooting line, and providing superior customer service by answering customer questions about firearms. Volunteers shoot for free at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility, located just west of I-17 and Carefree Highway in north Phoenix. Contact Arizona Game and Fish Department Volunteer Coordinator Sandy Reith at (623) 236-7680.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s volunteer program provides opportunities for volunteers to participate firsthand in managing Arizona’s wildlife resources. Our goal is to provide you with a congenial and cooperative atmosphere where you can build relationships with staff and other volunteers, and gain knowledge about Arizona wildlife and wildlife management. We recognize that your time is important and strive to provide rewarding and educational volunteer experiences.

We’ve listed some opportunities below that we think you might find interesting. To learn about other opportunities or to submit information about a project that would benefit from our volunteers, check our volunteer page at azgfd.gov/volunteer.

Adopt-a-ranch project at Horseshoe Ranch, Dec. 2

The Arizona Antelope Foundation, ASU Conservation Biology class, and Arizona Game and Fish Department will be modifying fencing at the Horseshoe Ranch, southeast of Cordes Junction. This project will require a lot of hiking and lifting and will run from 7:30 a.m. until late afternoon. Gloves and tools will be provided, and training will be provided on site. Volunteers may camp on Friday and/or Saturday nights. The Arizona Antelope Foundation will provide dinner, so please R.S.V.P. if you plan to attend to (623) 236-7492 or visit azantelope.org, or contact Arizona Game and Fish Department Volunteer Coordinator Sandy Reith at (623) 236-7680.

Range safety officers needed at Ben Avery Shooting Facility
Responsibilities include checking the safe condition of customer firearms, observing participants while they are shooting on the range, maintaining safe operation of the shooting line, and providing superior customer service by answering customer questions about firearms. Volunteers shoot for free at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility. Contact Arizona Game and Fish Department Volunteer Coordinator Sandy Reith at (623) 236-7680.

Volunteer opportunities for hunters
The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s volunteer program provides many opportunities for volunteers to participate, firsthand, in managing Arizona’s wildlife resources. Our goal is to provide you with a congenial and cooperative atmosphere where you can build relationships with staff and other volunteers, and gain knowledge about Arizona wildlife and wildlife management. We recognize your time is important and worthwhile, and will strive to provide a variety of rewarding and educational volunteer experiences.

We’ve listed some opportunities below that we think you might find interesting. For more opportunities or to submit information about a project that would benefit from volunteers, check our volunteer page for more opportunities or e-mail our volunteer coordinator. Recent project: volunteers clear the way for antelope
More than 40 volunteers recently got together to clear invasive piñon pine and juniper encroaching on antelope habitat in the Coconino National Forest near Kinnikinick Lake. It was not all work and no play for volunteers, who enjoyed a top sirloin dinner with all the trimmings after a day in the field. The June 25 event involved volunteers from the Arizona Antelope Foundation, Arizona Wildlife Federation, the Sierra Club, Grand Canyon Trust and Arizona ATV Riders.

Upcoming projects

Aug. 20 and Sept. 24, 2005
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Habitat restoration
Take part in a habitat restoration for antelope and grasslands birds. Contact Rick Keller at 928-214-1258.

Oct. 22, 2005
8 a.m.
Altar Valley Ranch Cleanup
Help landowners overwhelmed by trash left by undocumented aliens. Drop off full trash bags at base camp and be treated to lunch, drinks and door prizes. For more information, e-mail Gabriel Paz, call the Tucson Game and Fish office at 520-628-5376, or visit the Web site for Arizona Hunters Who Care.

Sport Fishing Education Program
Volunteer to help promote fishing and fishing skills to people of all ages, especially beginning anglers. Nothing beats helping someone catch their first fish and seeing their smile. Please contact Doug Thornburg, Aquatic Education Coordinator at 623-236-7240.

Ben Avery Line Safety Officers
Line Safety Officer volunteers help provide for the safe operation of the public shooting range at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility in north Phoenix, checking the safe condition of customer firearms, observing participants while they are shooting on the range, and maintaining safe operation of the shooting line. Training is provided at no cost. For more information, contact Larry Collins at 623-582-8313.