We extend our warmest welcome to you as a member of the Five Rivers MetroParks volunteer family. By becoming a MetroParks Volunteer Patrol (MVP) member, you play a part in achieving MetroParks’ mission to protect the region’s natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature. By volunteering, you will enhance MetroParks’ ability to foster understanding and enjoyment of the natural and cultural heritage of our area and ensure that all of our visitors have a safe experience on our trails.
Impact
Five Rivers MetroParks provides clean, safe parks and conservation areas for the public to enjoy year round. Our Park Maintenance volunteers help to manage and sustain 18 beautiful parks, 11 conservation areas, and 160 miles of hike, bike, mountain bike, and horseback-riding trails for park visitors to safely enjoy.
Tasks
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MVPs are the “eyes and the ears” of the trails and in our parks. They are NOT law enforcement officials. They should educate park users and share insight about the park or trail, but if there is confrontation, they should report rather than solve the problem. MVPs are encouraged to patrol on a regular basis to increase the presence of safe trails.
Additional Notes
- This is a Long-Term Volunteer Opportunity. Learn more about our types of service here.
- This opportunity is for ages 18 and older.
- Environmental & Physical Demands: be aware of outdoor risks such as poison ivy, insects, seasonal allergies, and extended exposure to sun. Plan to patrol (hike or bike) for 1-3 hours at a time.
- It is recommended that you patrol in teams.
- Check-in Before Your Patrol: It is important to check in with a Ranger before your patrol. To do this, you can either text or call the ranger float supervisor number: 937-313-8770
- Ranger Response Needed: Should you have an issue arise during your monitoring that requires the presence of a Ranger, you will call the Ranger Dispatch at 937-225-HELP. Please be prepared to provide the following information when communicating with County Dispatch:
- That you are in a MetroPark facility
- Nature of the call i.e. injury theft, suspicious person, etc.
- You need to SEE a MetroParks Ranger at ________(location)
- Leave your name and cell phone number in the event they need to call you back
See Park Maintenance Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.
