Docents

Become a Big Basin docent and introduce the public to the natural beauty and historic legacy of Big Basin Redwoods State Park.

Become a docent-naturalist at Big Basin!

Join a knowledgeable and enthusiastic team of volunteer naturalists and park staff dedicated to helping the environment through education at Big Basin Redwoods State Park.

Big Basin Docents will be trained in redwood ecology, local history, and the art of public speaking. Docents lead guided walks, host the museum, and share their own interests and skills with the park.

Minimum requirements: Must be at least 16 years of age and be able to volunteer a minimum of six hours per month. A curious spirit and open mind are plusses!

Please call (831) 338-3944. for information and application.

Join our Docent Team

• Become part of a team dedicated to helping the environment through education

• Learn to lead interpretive walks for school groups and the general public

• Gain natural history knowledge of the coast redwoods and their ecosystem

• Share a part of yourself with the community

As a Big Basin Docent you will be introducing the public to the natural beauty and historic legacy of Big Basin Redwoods State Park. Through your contribution of time and energy the public will have a better understanding, awareness and appreciation of our natural resources, the California State Park System, and the work of the Mountain Parks Foundation.

Purpose

The purpose of the docent program is to augment and enhance a year-round interpretive program at Big Basin Redwoods State Park. The mission of the volunteer docents is to interpret the rich natural and cultural history of this coastal redwood park to all visitors in an enjoyable and memorable manner so as to provoke curiosity and encourage exploration and preservation of State Park resources. Each year, docents enrich the experience of thousands of visitors to the park.

Duties

The duties of each docent are to research, develop and conduct interpretive programs; host the Nature Lodge or Sempervirens Room; assist staff with Junior Ranger programs, Campfire programs, and other special events.

Benefits

Through training and enrichment sessions, docents will increase their knowledge and appreciation of our natural environment. In turn, docents will experience the pleasure of sharing their knowledge with others. Docents have an opportunity to learn new skills while utilizing and expanding their current talents.

Many docents enjoy working and socializing with other natural history lovers. Parties, excursions, meetings and enrichment sessions provide settings for continued interaction with fellow volunteers.

Docents are covered by workers compensation insurance and are offered a number of state and federal tax benefits.

After donating 50 hours a year, docents receive a one year pass for day-use to all Santa Cruz District State Parks. After donating 200 hours a year, a pass is issued for free day-use to all California State parks for the following year.

Finally, becoming a Big Basin Docent is a terrific opportunity to spend time in the beautiful surroundings of Big Basin Redwoods State Park while contributing to local state parks and your community.

Call (831)338-3944 for more information about becoming a member of the Big Basin Docent team.