Please note:
This volunteer program is currently inactive at TRNERR. However, you can still volunteer to assist with trail patrols in the Tijuana River Valley with the San Diego County Department of Parks & Recreation. Please contact Cheryl Wegner at 858-966-1335 or
Purpose
To supplement regular ranger coverage of the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve (including Border Field State Park). To assist state park staff by patrolling areas which are easily accessible by horseback and reporting their observations and interactions with the public.
Skills/Qualifications
This position requires the ability to: ride a horse properly; read, write, and speak English at a level required for successful job performance; follow the directions of multiple park staff members; learn park rules and regulations; perform varied manual tasks; meet and interact with the public successfully; work weekends and holidays; communicate with law enforcement personnel; wear and maintain prescribed uniform.
Duties
Answer questions of the visiting public; give directions; explain park rules and regulations; assist with public information and educational programs such as nature walks/rides; clean-up trash; make park patrols; report violations to State Parks employees; report unsafe trail and facility conditions; and perform minor maintenance of trails and facilities.
Reports To
Community Outreach Coordinator and Park Ranger
Time
6 patrols per calendar year (minimum)
Training
All volunteers must complete the TRNERR Information Ambassador volunteer training. Rider and horse teams must demonstrate a series of skills during a training ride or in a simulated setting with a MAU-qualified rider. Each rider/horse team must have at least three “ride-alongs” totaling at least 10 hours of MAU riding time. If not, the rider/horse team must ride with a team that has this much time.
Benefits
Join a team of volunteer riders dedicated to improving the experience of visitors to the Reserve. Opportunity to provide equestrians, hikers, and bicyclists with area information and aid. Act as the eyes and ears of California State Parks to protect the park’s significant natural and cultural resources—on horseback!