Volunteer: Harbor Seal Monitoring

 
Two images: (left) A Harbor Seal Monitoring Docent looking through a spotting scope. (right) Harbor seals.
 

This program is currently not accepting new volunteers.

Overview

The Harbor Seal Monitoring volunteer contributes to the long-term monitoring of harbor seals which will aid in protecting seal colonies and assessing the health of the marine ecosystem.

Duties

  • Hike off-trail and in rugged terrain to various harbor seal monitoring sites to observe, collect and report data on seal numbers, behaviors, and disturbances
  • Use binoculars and a spotting scope to observe seals

Volunteers must be able to work independently, use binoculars and make detailed observations and notes. Volunteers must also have the interest and ability to hike off-trail and in rugged terrain.

Volunteers must be able to hike distances anywhere from 1 to 9 miles with up to 10 pounds of optical equipment and extra clothing and be able to tolerate sun, wind, fog, and cold. Volunteers may be exposed to poison oak and ticks.

Volunteers must also use own vehicle to transport to and from survey sites and provide own weather appropriate clothing, including rain gear and hiking boots.

Schedule and Time Commitment

Volunteers work 6 to 8 hours per day and commit to a minimum of 2 survey days per month during any day of the week for a total of 10 survey days from February through July.

Training

Volunteers must attend Harbor Seal Monitoring trainings on February 24, 2018 and March 11, 2018 as well as field training with a mentor.

Benefits to the Volunteer

Volunteers have the opportunity to observe harbor seals in less-frequented areas in Point Reyes National Seashore. Volunteers receive training in conducting surveys and education about harbor seals, marine mammals, marine ecosystems and the park. Volunteers also enjoy the satisfaction of contributing to the research and protection of marine ecosystems.

Group Type

Individuals are encouraged to participate.

Minimum Age

Minimum age is 16. Volunteers under 18 must have a signed parental consent form. Please contact us (see below) for more information.

Accommodations

Housing and camping/RV sites are unavailable.

Application and Contact Information

Please apply through Volunteer.gov. For more information, contact Sarah Codde at 415-464-5210 or by email.

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Last updated: February 4, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1 Bear Valley Road
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956

Phone:

415-464-5100
This number will initially be answered by an automated attendant, from which one can opt to access a name directory, listen to recorded information about the park (e.g., directions to the park; visitor center hours of operation; fire danger information; wildlife updates; ranger-led programs; seasonal events; etc.), or speak with a ranger. Please note that if you are calling between 4:30 pm and 10 am, park staff may not be available to answer your call.

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