Natural Lands Trust in Southeast PA is now accepting applications for its Force of Nature volunteer training program.  The registration deadline is November 1.

This comprehensive program teaches volunteers about tree planting, native plant gardening, habitat restoration, invasive plant identification and removal, wildlife management and more.

Program participants will learn about natural resource management from Natural Lands Trust’s nationally-recognized land stewardship experts. This education will help volunteers gain valuable skills they’ll put to use at Natural Lands Trust’s nature preserves, and as stewards of the natural world in their communities.

In addition to the training, volunteers will receive access to continuing education sessions; a Natural Lands Trust membership; a Force of Nature t-shirt, nametag, and hat; and recognition at the annual volunteer celebration. They’ll also have the opportunity to form friendships with fellow volunteers and staff members.

“More than 60 years ago, a group of volunteers who were passionate about our region’s wild places founded Natural Lands Trust,” said Molly Morrison, president of Natural Lands Trust. “To honor their legacy, we established the Force of Nature volunteer program and, with more than 100 participants to date, the program is playing a vital role in continuing our founders’ work.”

Force of Nature volunteers will pledge at least 20 hours of service on Natural Lands Trust’s preserves. Volunteers can choose from a wide variety of activities based on their interests and location. The preserves are located throughout suburban Philadelphia, the Poconos, and the New Jersey bayshore.

“Being involved in Force of Nature allows me to channel my passion for the environment and help others gain a better appreciation for nature,” says program graduate Brian Delphus. “And I’ve made some great friends with fellow volunteers who share my love of the natural world.”

Training sessions for the 2016 class will begin on February 13 and continue through May 7. 

Program information, a complete training schedule, and applications are available on the Force of Nature webpage or by calling Debbie Beer, Director of Engagement, at 610-353-5587 ext. 266.

9/14/2015