Frequently Asked Questions

Who Joins Volunteer for Nature

Conservation volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds, but all share an interest in protecting nature. Volunteer for Nature events engage students, retirees, conservation professionals and other members of the public who want to help preserve Ontario’s natural heritage. No special skills are required, and participants are welcome to join as many events as they want.

How many people can join each Volunteer for Nature event?

The number of volunteers varies at each event depending upon the project being conducted and the sensitivity of the environment where the work will take place. Multi-day events usually have 6-12 participants, while one-day projects can have 10 to 50 participants depending upon the type of project being completed and its location.

How do I register for an event?

The easiest way to register for a Volunteer for Nature event is through the Ontario Nature website at www.ontarionature.org/action. You can also register by filling out and mailing in a paper copy of the registration form which is available in the Volunteer for Nature brochure, or by contacting the Volunteer for Nature team at vfn@ontarionature.org. Registrations are processed on a ‘first registered, first served’ basis and full payment for the event must be provided before your registration will be processed. Payments may be made by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, cheque or money order.

If the event you wish to register for is full, please contact the Volunteer for Nature team directly at vfn@ontarionature.org or 416-444-8419 ext. 222, and your name will be added to a waiting list for that event.

Why is there a fee for the multi-day events?

Fees are charged for multi-day Volunteer for Nature events to help cover costs such as food, accommodations, project equipment, experts and special educational events. Upon proof of a valid student card, students will receive a 50% discount on events with a fee of $50 or more.

What if I need to cancel my registration for an event?

If you need to cancel your registration for an event, contact the Volunteer for Nature team directly at vfn@ontarionature.org or 416-444-8419 ext. 222. Please remember that there are waiting lists for many Volunteer for Nature events, and those who fail to show up for an event without cancelling are prohibiting someone on the waiting list from joining that event.

How do I get to the event meeting point?

Volunteer for Nature staff do not arrange transportation to and from event meeting points unless otherwise stated. Please note that although Volunteer for Nature staff may assist in matching individuals for carpooling purposes, Ontario Nature does not assume any responsibility for the safety of passengers in private vehicles.

What accommodations are provided for multi-day events?

Accommodations for Volunteer for Nature events vary from trip to trip, but are most often camping. Information on the type of accommodations provided appears in trip descriptions. Detailed descriptions are provided in the participant packages sent to each volunteer once their registration is confirmed. On events where accommodations are not organized by Volunteer for Nature staff, participants are expected to make their own overnight accommodation arrangements.

Where Do I Stay?

Accommodations for VfN events vary from trip to trip, ranging from camping, bunkhouses, town halls, cottages and local bed and breakfasts. Information on the type of accommodations provided for cetain events appears in trip descriptions categorized as Simple, Standard or Superior. Detailed descriptions are provided in the participant packages sent to each volunteer once registrations are confirmed. On events where accommodations are not organized by VfN staff, such as day trips, participants are expected to make their own arrangements for accommodations.

Will I have any free time during the multi-day events?

Practical conservation work is very rewarding, but can also be physically demanding. Participants on all Volunteer for Nature events are encouraged to work at their own pace and within their limits. A normal working day lasts from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with plenty of breaks during the day. Workdays often include special events such as morning bird watching, afternoon hikes and swimming. In the evenings, you are free to explore your own interests, or enjoy special outing and presentations designed for the group.

What should I bring to a Volunteer for Nature event?

All Volunteer for Nature participants are asked to dress appropriately for their event. Sturdy hiking or work boots, rain gear, a sun hat and a packed lunch are the key ingredients to making a one day Volunteer for Nature experience an enjoyable one. If you are joining a multi-day event, you may need to bring a tent, a sleeping bag, a dry pack and personal toiletries, depending upon the type of accommodations and activities scheduled for your trip. All food and group camping equipment are provided on multi-day Volunteer for Nature events unless otherwise stated. Project tools and materials will be provided by Ontario Nature.