Volunteer Opportunities

Get involved by volunteering with the San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy!

Volunteer Restoration Events ('Work Parties')

Join in the fun of participating in the preservation of the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve. Volunteer restoration events meet the third Saturday of every month, from 9 to 11 am. Locations vary, and activities typically include habitat restoration, invasive plant removal, planting of new native plants, trash pickup and removal, and trail maintenance.

Notes: Due to the inherent risks associated with our working environment, volunteers must be age 13 or older to participate; Due to the sensitive habitats we work in, dogs are not allowed at Conservancy restoration events.

Step 1: If you plan to join us and haven't already done so, please take a moment to complete the Volunteer Information Form, then either email it to us or bring it with you to the work party. This form provides us with contact information for you, and also a place for your parent or legal guardian to authorize your participation if you are under the age of 18. You only need to complete this sheet once, and we'll keep it on file for future events. (Note: This is a background information sheet only -- you still need to register for an event in step three, below!)

Step 2: For a list of upcoming events, click here to have an email sent to you with all of the information about the event and how to prepare. Our events change every month, and often within a week or two of the scheduled date. This email will always have the most current information.

Step 3: If you like what you see, and would like to join us at an event, please register for an event using this form. You can also use this form to schedule a special event your group, or to offer to volunteer for the Conservancy.

Step 4: You're done! Have a wonderful time at the restoration event! 

Thanks to our friends at for providing refreshments.

 

Become a Docent

Are you interested in learning more about coastal wetlands and sharing your knowledge with others? Come learn from the experts about the history, flora and fauna of the San Elijo Lagoon.  The seven week docent training also includes interpretive skills, and offers practical tips in leading groups of students and adults.  After completion, you will join a dedicated group of Conservancy volunteers who share their knowledge of the lagoon with others and instill the importance of protecting the lagoon’s diverse and rare habitats. Other benefits to being a docent include monthly continuing education opportunities and the support of a great group of like-minded individuals.  

The 7-part docent training training series is being offered on the following dates and times:
October 5, 12, 19, 26 and November 2, 9, 16 (Tuesdays), 2010
9:15 am to 12:15 noon

Location:
The new San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center
2710 Manchester Ave
Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Fee (to cover cost of materials):
Conservancy members: $75
Non-members: $110 (includes membership, a $35 value)

For more information:
Call Tara at 760-436-3944 x701 or email at tara@SanElijo.org. 

Dear Prospective Docent letter (2010) (PDF)

Docent Application (2010) (PDF) (MS Word)

 

Monthly Bird Counts

Monthly bird counts take place every second Monday of each month from 7:30 am to 12 noon. You can participate - all levels of experience are welcome.

View results of past bird counts

For more information and to receive an automatic reply with meeting location, contact Robert Patton at birds@SanElijo.org.

 

 

 

Our 'Lagoon Team' Trailer

Support the Lagoon Team Trailer -- our rolling outreach/education/restoration support vehicle and science lab! Watch for it around town, and view the trailer poop sheet here (pdf). The 'Lagoon Team' trailer is supported through your donations -- watch the trailer take shape and make your donation here.

Thanks to our corporate trailer sponsors:

North County Interiors