Opportunities From: FondyVolunteers.org

Invasive plants are taking a toll on Wisconsin's landscapes. The DNR is working with citizens and partners to slow the spread of invasive species. Through educational outreach, strategic planning and active management, we are protecting our environment from invasives. Join us for a short introduction on invasive species impacting the forest and then help cut and haul some invasive woody vegetation! Participants are encouraged to bring a fillable water bottle, insect repellent, sunscreen, sturdy footwear, and gloves. Hand tools will be provided. No experience is necessary to participate and all ages are welcome. All individuals 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. This event is weather-dependent.

The Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit is looking for volunteers to help plant trees at the Mauthe Lake Recreation Area and New Prospect Horseriders’ Camp. Volunteers should wear work shoes or boots, long pants and work gloves. No experience is necessary to participate and all ages are welcome. All individuals 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is required. A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required for parking. This event is weather dependent.

Help get the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit ready for summer! Grab a litter picker or help with a project such as trail maintenance or landscape improvement. Volunteers should wear work shoes or boots, long pants and work gloves. No experience is necessary to participate and all ages are welcome. All individuals 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration for projects is required. A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required for parking. This event is weather dependent.

We are looking for someone who would be able to water newly planted trees from end of April through the fall on either a weekly or biweekly schedule. The person would fill water bags surrounding the trees using a UTV. Training will be provided on how to operate a UTV safely.

Do you have a favorite trail that you enjoy walking, horseback riding, biking, or skiing? We could use your eyes and ears to help us keep alert to maintenance needs and unique natural happenings on "your trail." Volunteers sign up for a trail or a specific trail loop on which to be a Trail Steward. They let the Forest staff know if there are maintenance needs like downed trees or vandalized signs. They inform the staff what flowers are blooming, what birds/animals were sighted, and what other unique finds were found. This information is shared with other staff members.

The Northern Unit is a Tackle Loaner Site for the Dept. of Natural Resources Bureau of Fisheries and R3 program. We provide rods/reels and simple tackle boxes for those anglers who need gear. We have rods/reels for regular open water, fly, and ice fishing. As you can imagine with so many people using our equipment, it sometimes needs a bit of tuning and maintenance and tackle boxes require restocking. We are looking for volunteers to check on the gear and tackle at the Mauthe Lake and Long Lake Entrance Stations every week or two during the warm season and at the Ice Age Visitor Center on an as-needed basis.

This is an exciting opportunity for anyone who loves camping, spending time outdoors, and helping people.

Host responsibilities generally include:

Host opportunities are available at the Long Lake and Mauthe Lake campgrounds throughout the spring and summer and in the fall at the New Prospect Horse Riders Campground.

Hosts can be a single person, a couple, or family. Each host is asked to spend a minimum of two to three weeks at a campground. Hosts are provided with a free campsite, tools, access to an UTV, and information about the property.

Provide excellent customer service by orienting visitors to the property and local area, disseminating information and materials related to rules and regulations, program schedules, interpretive resources, facilities, and other recreational opportunities. Assist with guest speakers and school group visits. Assist with inventorying activity packs, educational materials, and supplies. Provide minor interior and exterior facility upkeep and maintenance. Maintain live animal aquarium displays. Manage sales of merchandise.