Wonders of Wildlife

Wildlife/Aquatic Volunteer -- Wonders of Wildlife Docent Job Description

Sponsored by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, the Wildlife/Aquatic Volunteer Wonders of Wildlife Docent Program is designed to introduce youth to the wise use of our state's wildlife and aquatic resources. Wonders of Wildlife is a series of interactive programs designed for students in grades 3-6. Teachers request programs for their classes and trained docents travel to the schools to present the programs. Programs may also be presented to scout troops, 4-H groups and other organized youth groups. Docents also assist in staffing Fish and Game events like Discover WILD New Hampshire Day and may lead activities at environmentally based field days around the state.

Click here to download a print-and-mail docent application.

Click here for the WOW docent training schedule; NEW CLASSES start in early September 2008 in two locations. Find out how you can get signed up!

Time Report Form for WOW docents

Docent Qualifications:

1. Desire to present natural resource programs to children.
2. Interest in learning about natural resources and ecology
3. Availability during school hours for training and program presentations.
4. Ability to serve as an active volunteer docent for two years following the training.

Docent Responsibilities:

1. To attend a comprehensive training program consisting of workshops about natural resources, ecology, and teaching techniques; and specific program training targeting the program(s) chosen to present. Training also includes environmental stewardship and field trips to aquatic systems. Approximate training time is 50 hours.
2. To dedicate at least 48 hours to the natural resource education of youths and adults by delivering programs that focus on New Hampshire wildlife and endangered species, aquatic ecology and wetlands, in schools or to organized youth groups during the two school years following the training. Leading activities for environmental festivals and field days may be included.

Docent Benefits:

1. Comprehensive training program, including sessions on ecosystems, wildlife management, aquatic systems, child development, teaching techniques and specific school programs presented by Fish and Game and UNH Cooperative Extension staff.
2. Opportunity to attend special lectures, seminars, workshops and field trips.
3. Mileage reimbursement at $.36 per mile when delivering programs.
4. Complimentary subscription to New Hampshire Wildlife Journal magazine.

For more information:

Contact Mary Goodyear at NH Fish and Game, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord NH 03301; e-mail: mary.goodyear@wildlife.nh.gov; phone: (603) 419-0256.