Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteering at The Brenton Arboretum offers a unique opportunity to learn about trees, tree care, prairie restoration, horticulture and natural history. Join our volunteers in doing something positive to help preserve the Arboretum for future generations. It is a fun, wonderful experience for the entire family.

Join our crew of Brenton Arboretum volunteers by setting up an appointment with our Volunteer Coordinator to find an opportunity that fits your interests and your schedule. (515) 992-4211

Tree Stewardship
Follow the growth of a tree from leaf out, blooming and leaf drop this year by signing up for the Tree Watch program. Volunteers will receive a packet of information about the tree species chosen for the project and a reporting form that lists the measurements, characteristics and phenophases (such as leaf out, flowering, fall color and seed dispersal) to observe.

Children's Programs
Assist with the Knee High Naturalist program, designed for early elementary school groups or lead or assist with field trips and special events scheduled through out the year.

Trail Keeper
If a walk is a part of your exercise regime, consider becoming a trail steward. By walking one of our trails every week or every two weeks you can report trail safety issues and observe trees and shrubs for disease or insect problems.

Gardener
Individuals, families and garden clubs can assist in maintaining our perennial beds and borders. This includes weeding, mulching, pruning, dead heading, spring and fall care and monitoring plant health.
(Gardening experience helpful, but not necessary.)

Wildflower & Grass Maintenance
Enjoy acres of wildflowers and grasses by helping maintain prairie plantings through weed control, prairie plant surveys and seed collection.
(No experience necessary.)

Grounds Keeper
Help with general projects around the arboretum such as mowing, planting, watering, mulching, weed and insect control, and basic clean up.
(No experience necessary.)

Research Assistant
Assist with the Conifer Research Project, a long-term research effort to provide Iowa with new and stronger species of conifers. Duties include planting, watering, mulching, observation, and record keeping of the conifers/evergreens in the research area.
(Horticultural experience is necessary. This may include students of Horticulture and Master Gardeners.)

Tour Guide
Share your knowledge and enthusiasm for the Arboretum! Welcome visitors and give guided tours on various topics, such as trees, birds, butterflies, wetlands, prairies and perennials. (Some experience in any or all of the areas helpful although training is provided.)

Other Volunteer Opportunities

• Librarian
• Membership Coordinator
• Birding Volunteer
• Special Events Coordinator

 

 

Open 9:00 AM until Sunset
Closed Mondays, open holidays
Phone: (515)-992-4211
Email: info@thebrentonarboretum.org