Opportunities From: City of Madison Volunteering

Anyone is welcome to join Friends of Cherokee Marsh in helping protect Madison’s natural areas by removing invasive thistle, an invasive plant that crowds out native species. This hands-on volunteer opportunity supports the health of a new prairie planting and helps restore habitat for native plants and wildlife. No prior experience is needed, and staff or experienced volunteers will provide guidance on plant identification and removal techniques.

Responsibilities

Identify plants (training provided) and use hand shovels to slice rootsFollow guidance from staff or volunteer leads on work areas and techniques Help keep the work area safe and organized Work collaboratively with other volunteers

Qualifications

Able to walk on uneven terrain and in prairie planting Comfortable using shovel to slice underground plant roots Willing to work outdoors in varying weather conditions No experience needed, just a willingness to help

Additional Notes

All ages welcome (youth should be accompanied by an adult) Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes Gloves are recommended (some may be provided) Tools will be provided Bring a drinking water to carry

Meet along Wheeler Road just west of HWY CV. The approximate address is 2000 Wheeler Rd. Park on the shoulder on the north side of the road.

Map

 

Sponsored by the Friends of Cherokee Marsh cherokeemarsh.og

 

Questions? Contact Jan Axelson at janaxelson@gmail.com

Help connect Madison families and kids with nearby nature by volunteering with Madison FUN (Friends of Urban Nature). Volunteers can lead an informal, free, family-friendly Bird and Nature Adventure outing or host a kids’ nature activity table. This is a great way for Master Naturalists to earn volunteer hours and for nature enthusiasts to share their knowledge, but no special expertise is required.

Responsibilities

Lead a casual, family-friendly nature outing or activity Host a kids’ nature activity table Share your enthusiasm and basic knowledge about nature Help create a welcoming and engaging experience for participants

Qualifications

Interest in nature and connecting with the community Comfortable interacting with children and families Reliable and friendly No formal nature expertise or previous experience required

Additional Notes

Activities and outings are free and family friendly Master Naturalists may count this opportunity toward volunteer hours Resources and guidance are available to help volunteers prepare

Please respond if you can lead an outing or  kids activity table on any of these dates and locations? 

Thu 06/25 San Damiano FUN table
Sat 07/11 Dane Co Lussier FUN table
Thu 07/16 San Damiano FUN table

Sun 07/26 1:30 Lakeshore Preserve outing
Sun 08/09 10-12 Ride the Drive FUN table
Thu 08/13 San Damiano FUN table 
Sat 08/22 9-11 MSCR Youth Pontoon outing

Sat 09/12 11-3 Northside Festival FUN table 
Sat 11/28 10am ALNC Edna Taylor outing
Sat 12/19 10am Starkweather Creek outing

Join us for a community-driven effort to keep Tenney Park's beach clean and beautiful! Volunteers will assist with essential beach maintenance tasks to ensure the area remains inviting and safe for all park visitors.

Volunteer Duties:

Cleaning Weeds off the Shoreline: Remove unwanted vegetation along the water’s edge to help maintain the natural beauty of the beach. Raking the Sand: Even out the sand to ensure a clean and smooth surface for park visitors. Clearing Animal Waste and Garbage: Collect and dispose of any animal waste or litter found on the sand to maintain cleanliness and prevent hazards.

What to Bring/Expect:

Dress comfortably for outdoor work and wear sturdy shoes. Gloves and all necessary cleaning tools will be provided, but feel free to bring your own gloves if preferred. Be prepared for outdoor conditions, including sun and potential wind.

This is a great opportunity to get outdoors, meet fellow community members, and contribute to keeping our local parks clean!

The Park Toy Coordinator is responsible for gathering and organizing toys left at Sunset Park, ensuring they are kept in a designated area. This role includes inspecting for broken or unsafe toys and removing them to keep the park safe. Each coordinator leads efforts at their assigned park and may recruit volunteers to assist.

Responsibilities

Collect toys left around the park and place them in the designated area. Inspect toys regularly and dispose of anything broken or hazardous. Serve as the main volunteer for your park; recruit others if needed. Communicate safety concerns or supply needs with park staff.

Qualifications

Good organization and attention to detail. Ability to identify and handle broken or hazardous items safely. Comfortable leading and coordinating volunteers. Dedicated to keeping the park clean and safe.

Additional Notes

Flexible hours; typically 1–2 hours per week based on park use. Great opportunity to support your community and gain leadership experience.

Join Friends of Owen Park for an Educational Garden Workday. Volunteers will help weed, transplant, identify plants, and learn more about the plants growing in these garden areas.

No experience is necessary. Friends of Owen Conservation Park workday leaders will provide instruction and help guide the group throughout the workday.

Responsibilities

Help with weeding and transplanting Learn how to identify plants in the garden areas Follow instructions from workday leaders Work mostly on trail, with some possible off-trail work

Qualifications

No gardening experience required Comfortable working outdoors Able to walk on trails and potentially uneven ground

Additional Notes

Hosted by Friends of Owen Park Please bring gloves All other tools will be provided Dress for the weather Wear closed-toe shoes Bring a full water bottle This workday will take place outdoors and may include some off-trail work

As a Trash Removal Volunteer, you will help keep Madison parks clean, safe, and welcoming by picking up litter and reporting larger concerns to Parks staff. This is a simple, flexible way to support your local parks and enjoy time outdoors.

Responsibilities:

Collect litter from designated park areas.

Place trash in existing park trash bins or in approved collection locations.

Use gloves, bags, grabbers, and other cleanup supplies as provided.

Report large items, overflowing trash, sharps, or unsafe materials to Parks staff.

Work independently or with a group during approved cleanup activities.

Document volunteer hours in your profile.

Qualifications:

No prior experience required.

Ability to walk outdoors and carry light bags of trash.

Follow basic safety instructions.

Do not handle sharps, human waste, hazardous materials, or anything that feels unsafe.

The Park Toy Coordinator is responsible for gathering and organizing toys left at Elmside Circle Park, ensuring they are kept in a designated area. This role includes inspecting for broken or unsafe toys and removing them to keep the park safe. Each coordinator leads efforts at their assigned park and may recruit volunteers to assist.

Responsibilities

Collect toys left around the park and place them in the designated area. Inspect toys regularly and dispose of anything broken or hazardous. Serve as the main volunteer for your park; recruit others if needed. Communicate safety concerns or supply needs with park staff.

Qualifications

Good organization and attention to detail. Ability to identify and handle broken or hazardous items safely. Comfortable leading and coordinating volunteers. Dedicated to keeping the park clean and safe.

Additional Notes

Flexible hours; typically 1–2 hours per week based on park use. Great opportunity to support your community and gain leadership experience.

Trash & Park Cleanup Volunteer
As a Trash & Park Cleanup Volunteer, you will help keep our parks clean, safe, and enjoyable for all by picking up litter and supporting basic upkeep. This is a simple but impactful way to care for your community and enjoy the outdoors.

Responsibilities:
• Pick up litter and debris in park areas.
• Use provided tools or bags to collect trash safely.
• Report any large, hazardous, or sharp items to Parks staff.  Do NOT handle needles.
• Work independently or with a team.

Qualifications:
• No prior experience required.
• Comfortable working outdoors.
• Able to bend, walk, and lift light debris.
• Must be dependable and have a positive attitude.

Additional Notes:
All supplies will be provided. Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear gloves if possible. Please check in with Parks staff or a lead volunteer for cleanup zones and instructions.

Help Blair Street Gardens thrive by volunteering for a few hours in these community-maintained spaces. Volunteers will support ongoing care at two gardens located on city property near the intersection of Williamson Street and John Nolen Drive. The Gateway Garden is located on Williamson Street across from Machinery Row, and Wilson Green is located on East Wilson Street toward the Capitol across from The Cardinal Bar. Both gardens are maintained entirely by volunteers and provide a great opportunity to contribute to visible, well-loved green spaces in the community.

Responsibilities

Mulch garden beds Weed planting areas Prune plants as needed Pick up litter and help keep the space clean Assist with general garden upkeep tasks

Qualifications

Willingness to work outdoors for up to 3 hours Ability to perform light to moderate physical activity (bending, lifting, kneeling) No prior gardening experience required Interest in supporting community green spaces

Additional Notes

Location includes two garden sites: Gateway Garden (Williamson St. across from Machinery Row) Wilson Green (E. Wilson St. across from The Cardinal Bar) Dress for the weather and wear comfortable, sturdy footwear Bring a reusable water bottle Tools may be provided, but volunteers are welcome to bring their own gloves Learn more at www.blairstreetgardens.org or on their Facebook and Instagram pages

Help keep Madison’s public beaches clean and welcoming during the busy summer season. As a Beach Cleanup Volunteer Leader, you will coordinate simple weekly beach cleanups at your assigned park and work with Madison Parks staff to support a clean shoreline for swimmers and park visitors.

Wind, waves, and wildlife can quickly bring in seaweed, debris, and other material along the shoreline. While Parks staff regularly maintain the beaches, this volunteer role helps supplement that work by organizing short weekly cleanups to keep conditions looking their best throughout the summer.

Volunteer Leads will help decide a regular cleanup time, communicate with Parks staff about supplies or equipment needs, and may recruit or welcome additional volunteers who want to help.

Responsibilities

Coordinate weekly beach cleanups at your assigned park from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Help determine a consistent cleanup time that works for you and any assisting volunteers. Communicate with Madison Parks staff regarding equipment, supplies, and beach conditions. Help organize light beach maintenance activities such as: Raking and smoothing sand where needed Removing seaweed or vegetation along the shoreline Picking up litter or animal waste on the beach Report larger cleanup needs or unusual conditions to Parks staff. Welcome or coordinate additional volunteers who may wish to assist with the weekly cleanup.

Qualifications

Enjoy being outdoors and helping maintain community spaces. Comfortable coordinating a small volunteer effort. Reliable and able to communicate with Parks staff when needs arise. Able to perform light physical activity such as walking on sand, raking, and picking up debris.

Additional Notes

Time Commitment: Approximately 1 hour per week from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Cleanup times are flexible and can be scheduled by the volunteer lead in coordination with Parks staff. Madison Parks can help provide tools and supplies such as rakes, grabbers, bags, and gloves. Volunteers may coordinate equipment pickup with Parks staff as needed. Dress for the weather and bring water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear. This volunteer effort supplements the regular maintenance performed by Madison Parks staff.

 

Help keep Madison’s public beaches clean and welcoming during the busy summer season. As a Beach Cleanup Volunteer Leader, you will coordinate simple weekly beach cleanups at your assigned park and work with Madison Parks staff to support a clean shoreline for swimmers and park visitors.

Wind, waves, and wildlife can quickly bring in seaweed, debris, and other material along the shoreline. While Parks staff regularly maintain the beaches, this volunteer role helps supplement that work by organizing short weekly cleanups to keep conditions looking their best throughout the summer.

Volunteer Leads will help decide a regular cleanup time, communicate with Parks staff about supplies or equipment needs, and may recruit or welcome additional volunteers who want to help.

Responsibilities

Coordinate weekly beach cleanups at your assigned park from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Help determine a consistent cleanup time that works for you and any assisting volunteers. Communicate with Madison Parks staff regarding equipment, supplies, and beach conditions. Help organize light beach maintenance activities such as: Raking and smoothing sand where needed Removing seaweed or vegetation along the shoreline Picking up litter or animal waste on the beach Report larger cleanup needs or unusual conditions to Parks staff. Welcome or coordinate additional volunteers who may wish to assist with the weekly cleanup.

Qualifications

Enjoy being outdoors and helping maintain community spaces. Comfortable coordinating a small volunteer effort. Reliable and able to communicate with Parks staff when needs arise. Able to perform light physical activity such as walking on sand, raking, and picking up debris.

Additional Notes

Time Commitment: Approximately 1 hour per week from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Cleanup times are flexible and can be scheduled by the volunteer lead in coordination with Parks staff. Madison Parks can help provide tools and supplies such as rakes, grabbers, bags, and gloves. Volunteers may coordinate equipment pickup with Parks staff as needed. Dress for the weather and bring water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear. This volunteer effort supplements the regular maintenance performed by Madison Parks staff.

 

Help keep Madison’s public beaches clean and welcoming during the busy summer season. As a Beach Cleanup Volunteer Leader, you will coordinate simple weekly beach cleanups at your assigned park and work with Madison Parks staff to support a clean shoreline for swimmers and park visitors.

Wind, waves, and wildlife can quickly bring in seaweed, debris, and other material along the shoreline. While Parks staff regularly maintain the beaches, this volunteer role helps supplement that work by organizing short weekly cleanups to keep conditions looking their best throughout the summer.

Volunteer Leads will help decide a regular cleanup time, communicate with Parks staff about supplies or equipment needs, and may recruit or welcome additional volunteers who want to help.

Responsibilities

Coordinate weekly beach cleanups at your assigned park from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Help determine a consistent cleanup time that works for you and any assisting volunteers. Communicate with Madison Parks staff regarding equipment, supplies, and beach conditions. Help organize light beach maintenance activities such as: Raking and smoothing sand where needed Removing seaweed or vegetation along the shoreline Picking up litter or animal waste on the beach Report larger cleanup needs or unusual conditions to Parks staff. Welcome or coordinate additional volunteers who may wish to assist with the weekly cleanup.

Qualifications

Enjoy being outdoors and helping maintain community spaces. Comfortable coordinating a small volunteer effort. Reliable and able to communicate with Parks staff when needs arise. Able to perform light physical activity such as walking on sand, raking, and picking up debris.

Additional Notes

Time Commitment: Approximately 1 hour per week from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Cleanup times are flexible and can be scheduled by the volunteer lead in coordination with Parks staff. Madison Parks can help provide tools and supplies such as rakes, grabbers, bags, and gloves. Volunteers may coordinate equipment pickup with Parks staff as needed. Dress for the weather and bring water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear. This volunteer effort supplements the regular maintenance performed by Madison Parks staff.

 

Help keep Madison’s public beaches clean and welcoming during the busy summer season. As a Beach Cleanup Volunteer Leader, you will coordinate simple weekly beach cleanups at your assigned park and work with Madison Parks staff to support a clean shoreline for swimmers and park visitors.

Wind, waves, and wildlife can quickly bring in seaweed, debris, and other material along the shoreline. While Parks staff regularly maintain the beaches, this volunteer role helps supplement that work by organizing short weekly cleanups to keep conditions looking their best throughout the summer.

Volunteer Leads will help decide a regular cleanup time, communicate with Parks staff about supplies or equipment needs, and may recruit or welcome additional volunteers who want to help.

Responsibilities

Coordinate weekly beach cleanups at your assigned park from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Help determine a consistent cleanup time that works for you and any assisting volunteers. Communicate with Madison Parks staff regarding equipment, supplies, and beach conditions. Help organize light beach maintenance activities such as: Raking and smoothing sand where needed Removing seaweed or vegetation along the shoreline Picking up litter or animal waste on the beach Report larger cleanup needs or unusual conditions to Parks staff. Welcome or coordinate additional volunteers who may wish to assist with the weekly cleanup.

Qualifications

Enjoy being outdoors and helping maintain community spaces. Comfortable coordinating a small volunteer effort. Reliable and able to communicate with Parks staff when needs arise. Able to perform light physical activity such as walking on sand, raking, and picking up debris.

Additional Notes

Time Commitment: Approximately 1 hour per week from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Cleanup times are flexible and can be scheduled by the volunteer lead in coordination with Parks staff. Madison Parks can help provide tools and supplies such as rakes, grabbers, bags, and gloves. Volunteers may coordinate equipment pickup with Parks staff as needed. Dress for the weather and bring water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear. This volunteer effort supplements the regular maintenance performed by Madison Parks staff.

 

Help keep Madison’s public beaches clean and welcoming during the busy summer season. As a Beach Cleanup Volunteer Leader, you will coordinate simple weekly beach cleanups at your assigned park and work with Madison Parks staff to support a clean shoreline for swimmers and park visitors.

Wind, waves, and wildlife can quickly bring in seaweed, debris, and other material along the shoreline. While Parks staff regularly maintain the beaches, this volunteer role helps supplement that work by organizing short weekly cleanups to keep conditions looking their best throughout the summer.

Volunteer Leads will help decide a regular cleanup time, communicate with Parks staff about supplies or equipment needs, and may recruit or welcome additional volunteers who want to help.

Responsibilities

Coordinate weekly beach cleanups at your assigned park from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Help determine a consistent cleanup time that works for you and any assisting volunteers. Communicate with Madison Parks staff regarding equipment, supplies, and beach conditions. Help organize light beach maintenance activities such as: Raking and smoothing sand where needed Removing seaweed or vegetation along the shoreline Picking up litter or animal waste on the beach Report larger cleanup needs or unusual conditions to Parks staff. Welcome or coordinate additional volunteers who may wish to assist with the weekly cleanup.

Qualifications

Enjoy being outdoors and helping maintain community spaces. Comfortable coordinating a small volunteer effort. Reliable and able to communicate with Parks staff when needs arise. Able to perform light physical activity such as walking on sand, raking, and picking up debris.

Additional Notes

Time Commitment: Approximately 1 hour per week from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Cleanup times are flexible and can be scheduled by the volunteer lead in coordination with Parks staff. Madison Parks can help provide tools and supplies such as rakes, grabbers, bags, and gloves. Volunteers may coordinate equipment pickup with Parks staff as needed. Dress for the weather and bring water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear. This volunteer effort supplements the regular maintenance performed by Madison Parks staff.

 

The Park Toy Coordinator is responsible for gathering and organizing toys left at Sugar Maple Park, ensuring they are kept in a designated area. This role includes inspecting for broken or unsafe toys and removing them to keep the park safe. Basketballs left around the courts have been a particular challenge at this park, so helping collect and organize them is an important part of the role.  Each coordinator leads efforts at their assigned park and may recruit volunteers to assist.

Responsibilities

Collect toys left around the park and place them in the designated area.Pay particular attention to basketballs left around the courts and surrounding areas.Keep basketballs off grass play areas Inspect toys regularly and dispose of anything broken or hazardous. Serve as the main volunteer for your park; recruit others if needed. Communicate safety concerns or supply needs with park staff.

Qualifications

Good organization and attention to detail. Ability to identify and handle broken or hazardous items safely. Comfortable leading and coordinating volunteers. Dedicated to keeping the park clean and safe.

Additional Notes

Flexible hours; typically 1–2 hours per week based on park use. Great opportunity to support your community and gain leadership experience.

As a Dog Park Steward, you’ll help ensure that our community dog parks remain clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. While dog owners are encouraged to clean up after their pets, some may forget. Your role will be to maintain the cleanliness of the park, ensuring a welcoming environment for all visitors.

Responsibilities:

Monitor the dog park to ensure cleanliness. Pick up pet waste and dispose of it properly. Ensure waste disposal stations are stocked with bags and accessible. Report any safety hazards or issues to park staff. Promote a friendly, welcoming environment for dogs and their owners.

Qualifications:

Must be comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions. Ability to handle pet waste safely and hygienically. Good communication skills to report park issues effectively. Must be at least 14 years old (or accompanied by an adult if under 18).

Additional Info:

This is a flexible volunteer position with no set hours, though regular visits are encouraged. Volunteers are provided with gloves and waste bags and pooper scooper.  A key to the waste bag dispenser if needed is also provided.

Join us for a monthly Volunteer Workday at Elver Park and help care for one of Madison’s largest and most beloved parks. These family friendly work days are designed to welcome volunteers of all ages and abilities. Depending on the season, projects may include removing litter, cutting invasive species, collecting native seeds, or assisting with other land stewardship efforts. Each month offers a hands-on opportunity to support the long-term term health and beauty of this important community park.

Whether you are passionate about conservation, looking for a meaningful activity with your kids, or simply want to spend time outdoors giving back, this is a great way to make a visible difference together.

Responsibilities
• Remove litter from trails, open spaces, and high use areas as needed
• Cut and remove invasive plant species
• Assist with native seed collection during appropriate seasons
• Support seasonal land stewardship projects
• Work collaboratively with other volunteers and families

Qualifications
• No experience needed
• Family friendly and welcoming to all ages
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to walk on uneven terrain and perform light to moderate physical activity
• Youth under 16 accompanied by an adult

Additional Notes
• Gloves, bags, trash grabbers, and tools are provided
• Dress for the weather
• Wear closed toe shoes
• Bring a water bottle
• Meet at the volunteer supply table by the path between the parking lot and the playground. Look for the Parks volunteer table and staff setup.

Help keep Monona Bay's shoreline clean and healthy by joining our monthly shoreline cleanup at Brittingham Park. Volunteers will walk designated shoreline areas to pick up litter and debris that collect along the water’s edge. These cleanups improve water quality, protect wildlife, and keep our parks welcoming for everyone. This is a great ongoing opportunity for individuals, families, and groups who want to make a visible impact in a short amount of time.

Responsibilities
Collect trash and debris along assigned shoreline areas
Place collected materials into provided bags
Work safely near water and uneven terrain
Report large or hazardous items to the site lead

Qualifications
Comfortable walking on uneven ground and near water
Able to bend, reach, and carry light to moderate loads
Youth (under 14) are welcome with adult supervision
No prior experience required

Additional Notes
Cleanups take place on the first Saturday of every month
All supplies including gloves and bags are provided
Volunteers are encouraged to wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear

Join the Friends of Owen Conservation Park for a hands-on stewardship opportunity focused on removing invasive Himalayan pokeweed. This plant can be distinguished from native American pokeweed by its upright, centered flowering bloom, while American pokeweed typically has multiple arching blooms along the sides. The work area may include brambles and uneven terrain, so volunteers should come prepared for outdoor conditions.

Responsibilities

Volunteers will help identify and remove Himalayan pokeweed from wooded areas. Work may include digging out roots, carrying removed plant material, and following instructions from the project lead to help protect native plants and surrounding habitat.

Qualifications

No prior experience or training is required. Volunteers should be comfortable working outdoors, walking on uneven ground, bending, digging, and working near brambles or other vegetation.

Additional Notes

Please wear long pants, sturdy closed-toe footwear, and work gloves. A narrow shovel for root digging is helpful if you have one, but extra tools will be available to borrow.

Join us for a rewarding day outdoors as we work together to care for our beautiful parks. Under the guidance of our workday leader, you will assist with a variety of seasonal tasks. No experience is necessary. Visit hoytpark.org for monthly details.  We will provide instruction on each task and how this work supports our restoration efforts. This activity may involve walking off trail and moving through tall vegetation. Volunteers should wear sturdy shoes and long sleeves and pants and bring work gloves.

What to bring:

Long sleeves and long pants Sturdy shoes (get ready for a bit of off-trail travel!)

We’ll provide all the tools you’ll need. Your efforts will help protect our natural spaces and create a healthier environment for everyone to enjoy. Come make a difference – we can’t wait to have you join us!

The Park Toy Coordinator is responsible for gathering and organizing toys left at Newberry Park, ensuring they are kept in a designated area (behind the bench next to the playground). This role includes inspecting for broken or unsafe toys and removing them to keep the park safe. Each coordinator leads efforts at their assigned park and may recruit volunteers to assist.

Responsibilities

Collect toys left around the park and place them in the designated area. Inspect toys regularly and dispose of anything broken or hazardous. Serve as the main volunteer for your park; recruit others if needed. Communicate safety concerns or supply needs with park staff.

Qualifications

Good organization and attention to detail. Ability to identify and handle broken or hazardous items safely. Comfortable leading and coordinating volunteers. Dedicated to keeping the park clean and safe.

Additional Notes

Flexible hours; typically 1–2 hours per week based on park use. Great opportunity to support your community and gain leadership experience.

Goose Monitoring & Hazing Volunteer
Help us maintain welcoming, clean, and balanced park environments by joining Madison Parks’ Goose Monitoring & Hazing volunteer team! From May 1 through Labor Day, volunteers support our Canada Goose Management Program by observing geese at assigned parks and using gentle, humane deterrence techniques when needed.

Responsibilities:
• Visit your assigned park site 4 times per week (ideally at the same time each day).
• Count and record the number of geese present during each visit.
• Use humane hazing techniques (e.g., clapping, waving arms, gentle approach) if geese exceed the site’s threshold.
• Reposition the coyote decoy during each visit.
• Check the effectiveness of the goose deterrent light weekly.
• Document observations using a monitoring log sheet.
• Report concerns or unusual activity to Parks staff.

Qualifications:
• No prior experience required; training and materials are provided.
• Comfortable working outdoors and walking around park areas.
• Able to commit to consistent site visits May–Labor Day.
• Must be observant, respectful of wildlife, and have a positive attitude.

Additional Notes:
Volunteers will receive a brief training and access to support materials, including a site threshold list and a summary of the Canada Goose Management Program. Early morning or evening visits are especially helpful, but observations at any time of day are appreciated. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy nature and want to make a visible difference in the health of our parks.

Help protect native wildflowers and restore woodland health by volunteering for a Japanese Hedge Parsley pull.  This hands-on conservation effort focuses on removing an aggressive invasive plant.  We may also remove some burdock.  Volunteers will work off-trail alongside expert volunteers from Friends of Cherokee Marsh, contributing to meaningful habitat restoration. It’s a great way to spend a spring afternoon outdoors while making a real environmental impact.  Tools and work gloves provided or bring your own.

We'll be pulling Japanese hedge parsley in a specific area of the woods.

Wear sturdy closed toe shoes or boots. Bring drinking water.  Be prepared for bugs.  Long pants and long-sleeved shirt recommended.
    
Note on location:

Meet at 34 Knutson Dr.  Park on the street.  We'll be working about a 0.1 mile walk from the meetup location

https://maps.app.goo.gl/ozhreF5WxyjpaF9A9

Sponsored by the Friends of Cherokee Marsh. 

cherokeemarsh.org

Questions? Contact Jan Axelson at janaxelson@gmail.com

Do you have a passion for nature and enjoy sharing it with others? Whether you're a seasoned nature enthusiast or new to the field, we need volunteers to help lead or co-lead our weekly, year-round Bird and Nature Adventures in Madison parks. These 90-minute nature walks are designed for nature lovers, families, and kids, and are the perfect opportunity to introduce people to the beauty of the outdoors.

You don’t need to be an expert on birds or nature to get involved—your enthusiasm is the key! Your walk can focus on any nature-related topic you love, whether it's a general nature walk or a topic like spring wildflowers, trees, or local wildlife. Walks are informal, welcoming, and fun, averaging around 15 participants of all ages.

Why Lead or Co-Lead?

Great opportunity for new leaders to get comfortable with the program and a park location. Flexible: You choose the date, location, and topic of your walk, with our support. Leader guidance: We will provide all the necessary training and assistance to help you succeed.

Volunteer Leader Dates

Here are openings in our 2026 calendar. Please email a date below that you like and a topic that you enjoy talking about to paul_noeldner@hotmail.com to learn more!  

CURRENT OPENINGS

Sun 07/26 – 1:30 pm – Lakeshore Preserve
Sat 08/22 – 1:30 pm – Pheasant Branch
Sat 08/22 – 9:00 to 11:00 am – Youth Pontoon Tour
Sat 10/17 – 10:00 am – Starkweather Creek
Sun 11/01 – 1:30 pm – Cherokee Marsh
Sat 11/21 – 10:00 am – Starkweather Creek
Sat 11/28 – 10:00 am – ALNC Edna Taylor
Sat 11/28 – 1:30 pm – Pheasant Branch
Sat 12/19 – 10:00 am – Starkweather Creek

We’re excited to offer an upcoming opportunity to connect, learn, and prepare for the season ahead. This optional meeting is a great chance to meet fellow volunteers, get helpful updates, and build confidence going into monitoring season.

UPDATE 4/17/2026 WEATHER UPDATE:

Due to potential for severe weather conditions today we'll also hold the Bird Monitor Training & Meeting Via Zoom:

Zoom link for Bluebird and Martin Monitors Volunteer Meeting and Training

Friday April 17, 5-7pm
Madison FUN Bluebird and Martin Monitors Volunteer Meeting and Training
Warner Park Community Recreation Center
1625 Northport Drive, Madison

Become a Volunteer Community Science Bird Monitor!

Do you love nature and want to make a real impact? We need volunteers to help monitor Bluebird Trail Boxes and Martin Houses across Madison parks! As a Community Science Bird Monitor, you’ll be involved in weekly monitoring from April to September to help protect and track bird populations.

What You’ll Do:

Visit bird boxes once a week to remove House Sparrow nests and record counts of nesting species, eggs, chicks, and fledglings. Be a key part of a growing community effort to support local bird species and biodiversity.

What We Provide:

Training on how to monitor bird boxes and Martin Houses effectively. Assistance in selecting a location that works best for you. A fun and impactful way to give back to the community!

We Need Monitors at the Following Locations:

Bluebird Trail Locations (Primary or Backup Monitors Needed):

Country Grove Park (new) Odana Hills Golf Course and Odana Hills Park (new) Marlborough Park (new) Reindahl Park (new) Cherokee Marsh - North UnitDoor Creek Park Kennedy Park Goodman Park / Quann Park Olin Park / Turville Point Conservation Park

Martin House Locations (Primary or Backup Monitors Needed):

Cherokee Marsh (new) Warner Park (new) Olbrich Park (new) Olin Park Hartmeyer Roth Park

Get Involved: We’re also looking for volunteers who are flexible and willing to help fill in where needed. Whether you’re a first-time volunteer or a seasoned community scientist, your support will make a difference in helping our bird populations thrive!

Interested in volunteering? Register for this opportunity and a volunteer lead will contact you about location and set up an in-person training/walkthrough for your first time.