Needs From: Volunteer Houston

Sheldon Lake State Park and Environmental Learning Center has had over 250 bird species sighted within its boundaries! We have birds during all seasons and many migratory species may stop in.

In our restored prairie and wetlands, a seasonal bird survey is conducted to monitor the different species that are found. Once a month from September to May, we are looking for volunteers to help assist with this very important project.

All skill levels are welcomed; from advanced birders to beginners. On-spot training will be provided.

Contact Jacob Poinsett at Jacob.Poinsett@tpwd.texas.gov to get involved.

Sheldon Lake State Park offers field trips to local groups and schools, typically from 9:00am-12:00pm on  Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and occasional Saturdays. Field trip volunteers support staff by assisting with fishing programs, nature walks, and other programming. May be asked to assist with outreach events outside of the park.

Minimum age of 18—Criminal Background Check required

Contact Jacob Poinsett at Jacob.Poinsett@tpwd.texas.gov to get involved.

Do you have a green thumb? We want you to come out and help us keep our gardens and wildscapes in tiptop shape. Assist with the overall development and maintenance of the gardens and trails. Duties include pruning, invasives removal, weeding, and planting. No experience necessary, all training will be provided.

Minimum age of 18—Criminal Background Check required

Contact Jacob Poinsett at Jacob.Poinsett@tpwd.texas.gov to get involved.

Come out to Sheldon and walk the trails! Our rovers interact with guests to answer questions, provide directions, and point out wildlife! You can also assist with our public programs. Sheldon Lake State Park is open daily from 8:00am-5:00pm. If you enjoy talking to people, this opportunity is for you! Preferred volunteer days are Saturdays or Sundays for 1-3 hours. May be asked to assist with outreach events outside of the park.

Preferred experience would include knowledge of flora and fauna indigenous to the Piney Woods region of Texas, experience presenting to groups, and the ability to walk trails or stand for several hours at a time. Shifts will be primarily on weekend days, or as needed. Volunteer will need to coordinate a schedule with park staff.

Minimum age of 18—Criminal Background Check required

Contact Jacob Poinsett at Jacob.Poinsett@tpwd.texas.gov to get involved.

Be part of a large-scale prairie and wetland restoration project! Our volunteers come out every Tuesday from 8:00am-11:30am to plant, pot, and perform other restoration activities. Volunteers should expect to get dirty and learn about prairies and wetlands! No experience necessary, orientation and training provided.

Minimum age of 18—Criminal Background Check required

Contact Matthew Moore at Matthew.Moore@tpwd.texas.gov to get involved.

Houston has a wonderful diversity of plants and animals, but they are being outcompeted by invasive species that harm the environment. Sheldon Lake State Park wants help managing our restored coastal prairie so that the many native birds, amphibians, and mammals will still have a home. Volunteers will work with park staff to remove invasive plants like the Chinese tallow, eastern baccharis, and deep-rooted sedge using tools and other methods. You will also learn how to identify the flora and fauna of the greater Houston region. Invasive removal will be done outside in variable conditions and will require physical exertion. All tools will be provided.  If you love the outdoors and want to preserve it for years to come, visit our park and see what you can do to protect Houston’s natural resources.

Criminal background check required. Volunteers age 18+ only.

Contact Matthew Moore at Matthew.Moore@tpwd.texas.gov to get involved.