Your Account
Email Sign-Up
Buy Annual Pass
HELP KEEP THEM AWESOME.
Love the Metroparks? Enjoy time in the Metroparks? Want to know more about the Metroparks? Then consider volunteering at the Metroparks. It’s a wonderful way to do good for the community while having a great time in 25,000 acres of woods, water and recreational facilities. Learn more below, then sign up soon.
VOLUNTEERING AT THE METROPARKS
If you’re passionate about preserving natural spaces, enhanving recreational expereinces, and supporting environmental stewardships, join the Metroparks as a volunteer! Metroparks volunteers support a wide variety of programs, activities, and operational functions throughout the year, with group volunteer projects, individual reoccuring roles, and monthly registration based organized service projects. Whether you love nature, enjoy working outdoors, or want to give back to your community, our volunteer program offers rewarding opportunities to make a lasting impact while connecting with others who share a commitment to protecting and improving our parks.
ANNUAL REPORTS
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Every year thousands of volunteers donate countless hours to the Huron-Clinton Metroparks. Become an invaluable member of the team by joining efforts to preserve the Metroparks and enhance the environment for generations to come.
Scout Projects
Collaborating with the Metroparks on a Scout Project can make for an unforgettable experience. Scouts, and scouting groups, can work with the metroaprsk to develop meaningful projecst to help qualify for merit badges and earn the rank as an Eagle Scout.
If you are interested in developing a project, or want to learn more about projects available for Scouts, please contact: volunteer@metroparks.com
Company, Group or Organization Volunteering
To set up a volunteer workday is easy, simply email volunteer@metroparks.com with your preferred park(s) to volunteer at, any specific dates and times you are interested in, and an estimated group size. From there, we will work with you to coordinate a volunteer day at the Metroparks that best fits your group!
Golf Volunteers
If you love the great game of golf (like we do), you’ll find all kinds of ways to volunteer at the Metroparks. We ask our golf volunteers to make a commitment of one shift per week and – of course – have prior knowledge of the game. Some responsibilities of a golf volunteer can include:
- Maintaining pace of play
- Filling divots
- Repairing ball marks
- Moving tee marks
Our golf volunteers also have the perk of FREE golf! To sign up to volunteer, download and complete the application and volunteer waiver forms by clicking on the button below and then return to the course where you would like to volunteer:
- Kensington Metropark: Matt Park, Matt.park@metroparks.com
- Hudson Mills Metropark: Don Naggie, Don.Naggie@metroparks.com
- Huron Meadows Metropark: ALL VOLUNTEER POSITIONS ARE CURRENTLY FULL
- Indian Springs Metropark: Larry Paffi, Larry.Paffi@metroparks.com
- Willow Metropark: Jeff Potratz, Jeff.Potratz@metroparks.com
- Lake Erie Metropark: Jan Newboles, Jan.Newboles@metroparks.com
- Stony Creek Metropark: sc.golf@metroparks.com
Individual Volunteer Opportunities
Individual opporutnities to support Metroparks events, programs, and outreach arise throughout the year. Sign up for our Volunteer Newsletter to hear more about opportunities.
Natural Resources Volunteer Days
The Metroparks Natural Resources Department holds monthly volunteer opporutnities. We invite individuals to register, or invite a friend and serve together! Click to learn view monthly opportunties.
Park Clean Ups
The Metroparks host a variety of spring clean ups around Earth Day every year. Sign up for our Volunteer Newsletter to hear more about opporutnities.
Remote or Self-Guided Volunteering
Your Metroparks value the work and impact that volunteers bring to our park system. We are excited to offer remote or self-guided volunteer opportunities this year. Groups, families, individuals, and companies are encouraged to participate.
Volunteer to Make Nest Boxes
The Metroparks are inviting volunteers to, remotely, help make nest boxes to be used at the Farm and Nature Centers throughout the Metroparks. Nest boxes are used by birds and bats for seasonal nesting, roosting and storing prey year-round.
Volunteers will sign up to make a specific type of nest box for a specific Metropark Farm or Nature Center. Volunteers will use the instructions provided to build your nest box. After your box is complete, arrange drop off to the specific Farm or Nature Center for staff to install boxes. To sign up, please contact Alison Lum at alison.lum@metroparks.com
Please note, volunteers are responsible for purchasing all materials and should follow the instructions provided. If volunteers have their own plans, they will need to seek approval to use those plans.
Nest Box Instructions
| Screech Owl Boxes: | Kestrel Boxes: | Bat Boxes: | Native Bee Houses: |
Volunteer Paperwork
Ready to volunteer? Simply, download and complete an application and waiver, then send to volunteer@metroparks.com or mail to our Adminstrative Office at 13000 High Ridge Drive, Brighton, MI 48114.
VOLUNTEER WORKDAYS
Join the Metroparks Natural Resources crew to help fight invasive species or plant trees or gather native seeds, there are opportunities all year long to get out and volunteer.
Volunteer Workday: Hudson Mills Metropark - June 6
Join natural resources staff at Hudson Mills Metropark as we work to remove invasive plants from a high-quality ecosystem. Volunteers will get a chance to learn about the wetlands and woodlands we can find in this park.
All necessary tools and equipment will be provided. We will provide gloves, but feel free to bring your favorite pair! Please be sure to dress for working outdoors and off-trail in areas that may include poison ivy (long pants, layered clothing, closed-toe shoes, rain gear, hat, sunscreen, etc.). Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water!
Ages: 12 and up. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Time: 10 a.m. – Noon
Cost: Free!
Location: Hudson Mills Metropark, Pineview Parking Lot
Pre-registration is required by 4 p.m. three days before the program.
Volunteer Workday: Huron Meadows Metropark - July 11
Ready to do something hands-on that actually makes a difference? Join the natural resources team at Huron Meadows Metropark for a clean-up adventure as we take on invasive plants and help native species thrive. You’ll learn cool behind-the-scenes facts about the park’s natural areas, see how conservation work happens up close, and enjoy some fresh air while doing good. Bonus: wildlife sightings are always a possibility!
We’ll supply all the tools and equipment you need—including gloves (though you’re welcome to bring your own favorites). Just come dressed to get a little dirty and explore off-trail areas—think long pants, layers, closed-toe shoes, and weather-ready gear. Poison ivy can be present, so plan accordingly. Sunscreen, hats, and a reusable water bottle are strongly encouraged.
Get outside, meet new people, and leave the park better than you found it.
Ages: 12 and up. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Time: 10 a.m. – Noon
Cost: Free!
Location: Huron Meadows Metropark, Acorn Ridge Parking Lot
Pre-registration is required by noon the day before the program.
Volunteer Workday: Stony Creek Metropark - August 22
Ready to do something hands-on that actually makes a difference? Join the natural resources team at Stony Creek Metropark for a clean-up adventure as we take on invasive plants and help native species thrive. You’ll learn cool behind-the-scenes facts about the park’s natural areas, see how conservation work happens up close, and enjoy some fresh air while doing good. Bonus: wildlife sightings are always a possibility!
We’ll supply all the tools and equipment you need—including gloves (though you’re welcome to bring your own favorites). Just come dressed to get a little dirty and explore off-trail areas—think long pants, layers, closed-toe shoes, and weather-ready gear. Poison ivy can be present, so plan accordingly. Sunscreen, hats, and a reusable water bottle are strongly encouraged.
Get outside, meet new people, and leave the park better than you found it.
Ages: 12 and up. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult
Time: 10 a.m. – Noon
Cost: Free!
Location: Stony Creek Metropark, Oakgrove West parking lot
Pre-registration is required by noon the day before the program.
Volunteer Workday: Willow Metropark - September 26
Ready to do something hands-on that actually makes a difference? Join the natural resources team at Willow Metropark for a clean-up adventure as we take on invasive plants and help native species thrive. You’ll learn cool behind-the-scenes facts about the park’s natural areas, see how conservation work happens up close, and enjoy some fresh air while doing good. Bonus: wildlife sightings are always a possibility!
We’ll supply all the tools and equipment you need—including gloves (though you’re welcome to bring your own favorites). Just come dressed to get a little dirty and explore off-trail areas—think long pants, layers, closed-toe shoes, and weather-ready gear. Poison ivy can be present, so plan accordingly. Sunscreen, hats, and a reusable water bottle are strongly encouraged.
Get outside, meet new people, and leave the park better than you found it.
Ages: 12 and up. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Time: 10 a.m. – Noon
Cost: Free!
Location: Willow Metropark, Big Bend parking lot
Volunteer Workday: Indian Springs Metropark - October 17
Ready to do something hands-on that actually makes a difference? Join the natural resources team at Indian Springs Metropark for a clean-up adventure as we take on invasive plants and help native species thrive. You’ll learn cool behind-the-scenes facts about the park’s natural areas, see how conservation work happens up close, and enjoy some fresh air while doing good. Bonus: wildlife sightings are always a possibility!
We’ll supply all the tools and equipment you need—including gloves (though you’re welcome to bring your own favorites). Just come dressed to get a little dirty and explore off-trail areas—think long pants, layers, closed-toe shoes, and weather-ready gear. Poison ivy can be present, so plan accordingly. Sunscreen, hats, and a reusable water bottle are strongly encouraged.
Get outside, meet new people, and leave the park better than you found it.
Ages: 12 and up. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Time: 10 a.m. – Noon
Cost: Free!
Location: Indian Springs, Environmental Discovery Center
Pre-registration is required by noon the day before the program.
Volunteer Workday: Lower Huron Metropark - November 7
Ready to do something hands-on that actually makes a difference? Join the natural resources team at Lower Huron Metropark for a clean-up adventure as we take on invasive plants and help native species thrive. You’ll learn cool behind-the-scenes facts about the park’s natural areas, see how conservation work happens up close, and enjoy some fresh air while doing good. Bonus: wildlife sightings are always a possibility!
We’ll supply all the tools and equipment you need—including gloves (though you’re welcome to bring your own favorites). Just come dressed to get a little dirty and explore off-trail areas—think long pants, layers, closed-toe shoes, and weather-ready gear. Poison ivy can be present, so plan accordingly. Sunscreen, hats, and a reusable water bottle are strongly encouraged.
Get outside, meet new people, and leave the park better than you found it.
Ages: 12 and up. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Time: 10 a.m. – Noon
Cost: Free!
Location: Lower Huron Metropark, Sycamore Bend parking lot
Pre-registration is required by noon the day before the program.
Volunteer Workday: Dexter-Huron Metropark - December 5
Ready to do something hands-on that actually makes a difference? Join the natural resources team at Huron Meadows Metropark for a clean-up adventure as we take on invasive plants and help native species thrive. You’ll learn cool behind-the-scenes facts about the park’s natural areas, see how conservation work happens up close, and enjoy some fresh air while doing good. Bonus: wildlife sightings are always a possibility!
We’ll supply all the tools and equipment you need—including gloves (though you’re welcome to bring your own favorites). Just come dressed to get a little dirty and explore off-trail areas—think long pants, layers, closed-toe shoes, and weather-ready gear. Poison ivy can be present, so plan accordingly. Sunscreen, hats, and a reusable water bottle are strongly encouraged.
Get outside, meet new people, and leave the park better than you found it.
Ages: 12 and up. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Time: 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Dexter-Huron Metropark, tollbooth-adjacent parking lot
Pre-registration is required by noon the day before the program.
Volunteer Workdays are great opportunities for families and friends or companies and teams! All necessary tools and equipment will be provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
Types of Volunteers
We welcome individual volunteers, groups, and partnership volunteer programs to help with different volunteer roles throughout the Metroparks. If you’re looking for a one-time volunteer project, a reoccurring role, or to bring a group for a service project, we are always looking for different types of volunteers.
Safety
The Metroparks and volunteers share the responsibility of establishing and maintaining a safe working environment. Volunteer service for Huron-Clinton Metroparks may include hazardous and/or physically strenuous activities. Volunteers may be exposed to personal injury or damage to personal property as a result. Though the Huron-Clinton Metroparks will provide support, supervision, training, and supplies to accomplish assigned volunteer activities. We ask volunteers to follow instructions provided by Metroparks staff, only take on activities you feel sufficiently prepared or capable of doing, and take reasonable precautions to avoid injury.
Volunteer Dress & Appearance
Volunteers are asked to dress for the volunteer role they are performing and should be dressed for the working conditions. This may include close-toed shoes, layers for varying weather conditions, and sun protection. Any clothing or accessories should be free to harmful or offensive language or graphics.
Age of Volunteers
Volunteers of all ages are welcome. Volunteers under the age of 18 must have their volunteer liability waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian. Volunteers under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of their volunteer shift.
Parking/Entrance Fees
Volunteers will get their daily park entry waived the day of their volunteer project. Volunteers who serve 24 hours or more in a calendar year will receive 1 complimentary annual Metroparks vehicle pass, which can be for the current or upcoming year.
Use of Tools and Equipment
Volunteers may be asked to use tools and equipment to assist with their service projects, only after the volunteer is trained appropriately by Metroparks staff in the safe use of the tool. Personal protective equipment will be provided by the Metroparks.
Volunteers are prohibited from using the following: riding lawnmowers, tractors, chainsaws, Metroparks vehicles requiring a license to operate (may be a passenger, but only while remaining on park property).
Individual Volunteers, such as Golf Volunteers, are required to go through the background check process as a part of the paperwork expectations, which includes an Motor Vehicle Record check. If they are cleared to drive, have a valid driver’s license, and are at least 18 years old, they will be able to drive golf carts as a part of their volunteer role after completing a safety training and orientation provided by Metroparks staff.
Animal Care
If an individual volunteer role involves animal care, it is acceptable for volunteers to do the following tasks for daily care after completing a safety training and orientation provided by Metroparks staff: holding, showing, grooming, restraining, feeding, watering, plus cleaning and maintaining captive animal spaces. When volunteers are working with horses, cattle, or pigs a Metroparks staff member must be present at all times. Once volunteers are properly trained by a Metroparks staff member, they are able to go in and out of pens with sheep, goats, chickens, and rabbits without supervision of a staff member.
Community Service Volunteering
The Metroparks welcomes community service volunteers from civic groups, schools, community assistance programs, and the judicial system. Community service volunteers are responsible for maintaining an accurate timesheet and to ensure it is signed at the beginning and end of each volunteer shift by a Metroparks staff member. For appropriate placement, the Metroparks reserves the right to know the offense related to court-ordered community service. In all other response, court-ordered community service volunteers will be treated and held accountable to the same standards as all other volunteers.
For all other questions, please reach out to volunteer@metroparks.com.
YOUR ACCOUNT