Volunteers, who must be at least 14 years old, are asked to donate the same four-hour shift each week for a minimum of one year. In return, they receive one hour of free riding time for every eight hours contributed. They are now restoring this land and establishing its ecological character to functioning, native ecosystems. Volunteers play a key role in restoring these areas as part of the district's new Natural Areas Management Program. Through this ten-year effort, the district hopes to restore 9,000 acres to native, functioning ecosystems.
Volunteers participate in workdays led by district staff or site stewards.
Volunteers assist in reestablishing native prairie and woodland vegetation by removing non-native plants, and collecting and redistributing native seeds. Other projects include growing native plants, conducting plant and bird surveys, monitoring insect and wildlife populations, and taking photographs to show the before and after of work efforts. Retired individuals make great education volunteers as they share their experiences with children. This volunteer at Fullersburg Woods Environmental Education Center teaches a small group of kids about the natural environment. The commitments to the programs and information about the candidate help the volunteer better understand the time and job requirements of each volunteer opportunity.