Do you like hiking, learning to use new tools, and expanding on your tree identification skills? Try Cover mapping! Cover mapping is a scientific process of mapping vegetation types. While it is an in-depth sampling method it is not an inventory. It collects information about the species size, species composition as well as impacts from deer and invasive species. Through Cover mapping, volunteers help Five Rivers MetroParks to determine the current health of our habitats, how the habitats have changed over time, and make management recommendations.
Cover mapping is conducted weekly (Monday mornings) in small teams at Englewood Metropark. Click here to view the Cover mapping volunteer opportunity. Under the guidance of staff and volunteer leaders, volunteers support and assist with the following tasks:
- Utilizing a size class pipe and DBH tape, collecting data for the scribe to record in the datasheet.
- Collecting and writing down both field and forest data.
- Utilizing a GPS Mapper, aerial maps, and compass, assist in directing the team to units for data collection.
In this Hands-on Cover mapping Training, you will meet with our staff leader, who will review the why's and how's of Cover mapping. After this brief review and introduction, you will then head off with a group of skilled volunteers to conduct Cover mapping, putting training into practice.
DO YOU QUALIFY? This opportunity is reserved for long-term volunteers, ages 18 and older, who have completed their onboarding qualifications and have received an eligible background check. Learn more about our volunteer orientation and onboarding here.
Interested and available to volunteer as a Cover mapping Volunteer? Come to our Hands-on Cover mapping Training, held on the last Monday of every month, led by our skilled and knowledgeable conservation staff, and learn how you can be an important role in aiding MetroParks in making land management decisions. RSVP is required.
Additional Notes
- Before attending a training, a volunteer must review our Cover mapping Guide.
- This is a Long-Term Volunteer Opportunity, reserved for volunteers ages 18 and older. Learn more about our types of service here.
- Once you've attended a training, your Cover mapping Guide qualification will be approved, and you will be eligible to respond to upcoming opportunities.
- Environment & Physical Demands: This project takes place outside, and requires a lot of hiking, often off-trail on uneven terrain. Please be aware of seasonal-specific allergies (i.e.. grass, pollen, bees, etc...).
- Please wear sturdy hiking boots, long pants, and bring a pre-filled water bottle to stay hydrated. It's also recommended to wear a hat, sunscreen, and bug spray.
- Please review Five Rivers MetroParks latest COVID-19 Updates.
