We have a fantastic volunteer opportunity for individuals 55+ residing in Northumberland County!

Volunteers from the Northumberland area are needed to support the sustainable collection of native seeds for an ambitious project to restore the habitat of the endangered Kirtland’s Warbler by re-establishing large areas of rare ecosystems that once thrived in this area. As a volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in conserving the Kirtland’s Warbler and other at-risk species right in your local community of Northumberland. You can learn more about Kirtland’s Warblers and their recovery here.

Our upcoming seed collection training workshops are scheduled for September 6th, 7th, 29th and 30th in Cobourg, Ontario. In this free training session with one of Ontario’s leading experts in restoration, Mary Gartshore, you’ll learn about native plants, seed collection skills, and technologies used for tracking and recording species. You’ll gain insights into the science behind ecological restoration and its impact on biodiversity and climate change mitigation. Lunch and refreshments will be provided.

These workshops are free, but a $10 deposit is required to hold your place. This will be refunded at attendance or with 24-hour notice for cancellation. 

Space is limited. To join us on this exciting project, please sign-up via the link below.

We are committed to following best practices and regulations to ensure environmental care and respect.

To participate in this conservation effort, we kindly request the following commitments from volunteers

• Attend the one-day training workshop.
• Go seed collecting! After the workshop, volunteers are encouraged collect seeds at least twice before the end of November. Additional assistance will be provided, with experts offering small-group mentoring opportunities for seed collection at designated locations across Northumberland County. 
• Participants must be able to travel to rural sites by car or by carpooling. Travel stipends will be provided for eligible travel expenses, a minimum of 25km is required.

Here’s what you can look forward to as a volunteer for this project:

• You’ll play a vital role in conserving the Kirtland’s Warbler and other at-risk species right in your local community of Northumberland.
• You will receive hands-on experience in native seed collection and cleaning, with support from knowledgeable trainers and mentors.
• You will benefit from spending quality time in nature, getting some exercise, and connecting with others in your community who share similar passions.

We appreciate your interest and look forward to having you join us in this important conservation effort to restore the habitat for the Kirtland’s Warbler in Northumberland.

If you have any questions, please reach out to us here.