Open Space Volunteer Program

Nearly 30,000 acres of land are currently in the Open Space system: ephemeral arroyos carrying precious water to wild flowers and wildlife; granite outcrops providing spectacular views of the Rio Grande Valley; the majestic cottonwood shading the Rio Grande bosque; remnants of thriving ancient cultures; and fertile valley farmlands are just a sample of the special features the citizen-supported Open Space Program protects.

Volunteers are an important part of the preservation of these special features and the whole of Open Space lands. Volunteers offer the Open Space Division support by reporting observations such as flora and wildlife sightings and visitor activities; they notify the Division of maintenance needs and law enforcement issues; educate and guide the public to be good stewards; and assist with conservation projects.

Organized Volunteer Programs

 

Visitor Center Volunteers

Visitor Center Volunteers work at the beautiful Open Space Visitor Center and are trained in:

• How to greet visitors and educate them on the Open Space program and the Center’s surroundings
• The geography of the Open Space program
• The Piedras Marcadas Pueblo Village
• The natural and human history that has shaped the Middle Rio Grande Valley
• Visitor Center wildlife and plants, and interpretive method

Trail Watch Volunteers
Trail Watch Volunteers are the foundation of the volunteer program-essentially, all volunteers are trained to be Trail Watch. Trail Watch is ideal for those volunteers who enjoy using the trails. Often referred to as Open Space "eyes and ears", these volunteers patrol areas of their choice and record observations, report problems and needs, and educate the public on proper resource use.

Adopt-an-Open Space
As an extension of the Trail Watch Volunteer program, the Adopt-an-Open Space program was formed to concentrate stewardship in a targeted area. TWV duties are applied, but adoptors also agree to organize at least one group project per year. Some areas may require more scheduled projects within a year. In the foothills, individuals or groups can adopt trails and assist with the essential maintenance of these visitor corridors. In the bosque, groups of 10 or more can adopt restoration areas and help with non-native plant control and trail maintenance. At the City's expense, a sign is installed in the adopted area recognizing the adoptors efforts.

Community Interpreters of the Environment (CIOTE)
Education is a key component in protecting Open Space areas. Education not only enhances the visitor's enjoyment of Open Space, but also inspires greater respect for the area's unique natural and cultural resources. Giving educational programs is a fun and fulfilling way to volunteer if you are a Community Interpreters of the Environment or CIOTE. CIOTEs lead educational hikes and programs for school children and the general public

Getting Started
All volunteers attend a two-hour orientation that provides background on the Open Space Division, volunteer responsibilities, and addresses issues of law enforcement. Volunteers are required to contribute a minimum of 25 hours per year and complete two additional trainings or attend two programs of the individual's choice. All volunteers receive a packet with maps, brochures and information, a badge, a lanyard and a patch; after completion of 25 hours volunteers receive an official Open Space Volunteer t-shirt.

YES! I Want to Volunteer!

Fill out a volunteer interest form 99.4 Kb and mail or email it to the Volunteer Coordinator, Jodi Hedderig, at jhedderig@cabq.gov.