As the Maine Audubon Volunteer Coordinator, I have the pleasure of working with nearly 1,200 generous residents that give of themselves and their time in support of our mission to conserve wildlife and wildlife habitat here in Maine. Volunteers support our conservation efforts and collect valuable data as citizen scientists. At Gilsland Farm, volunteers are the face of Maine Audubon where they educate visitors about the sanctuary and our work. They spent 1,700 hours this year at the front desk alone!
Volunteers have completed a variety of projects at our headquarters that benefit pollinators, bird species, and other wildlife, and they support our education efforts to reach a new generation of environmental stewards. Volunteers write testimony and contact their legislators in support of policies that support Maine’s wildlife and wildlife habitat.
At Scarborough Marsh and Fields Pond, volunteers are integral to the work that keeps those facilities open and ready to welcome paddlers, nature lovers, families, birders, community members, and out-of-town visitors. At our eight sanctuaries, volunteers help maintain trails, eradicate invasive species, and make those places special for the community members who enjoy the trails and for the wildlife that live there. Our Chapters across the state are made up of volunteers who make the work of Maine Audubon and their love of nature and wildlife accessible to their communities.
A group of 30 choir students from Virginia came to Maine Audubon to complete a service project while touring and singing in the state. They spent the day with Property Manager Peter Baecher removing invasive plants, and planting beds with native species around Gilsland Farm.
Citizen Scientists volunteer their time to observe and record data during the annual Loon Count in July, and they travel to some of the most remote parts of the state surveying ponds for wild Brook Trout populations.
Our communities are enriched by the commitment and support of volunteers like you. You make our state a better place to live and you inspire others to make a difference. On behalf of Maine Audubon and in celebration of International Volunteer Day, I would like to say, “THANK YOU!” to the multitudes of volunteers, supporters, and friends that make our work possible.
I look forward to the opportunity to meet you during National Volunteer Week in April! Stay tuned for more information.
With much gratitude,
Annica McGuirk
Maine Audubon Volunteer Coordinator