October 11, 2021
ODFW Volunteers,
Last month we communicated that beginning October 18, 2021, all individuals who were interested in volunteering for ODFW must be able to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination, or have an approved exception (based on criteria in Executive Order (EO) 21-29), prior to performing any volunteer services on behalf of ODFW. Since then, we have received additional clarification and guidance from the Oregon Department of Administrative Services regarding the specific circumstances under which this EO will apply to volunteers. We wanted to make you aware of these changes as soon as possible as they will affect you as a volunteer.
At this time, we can clarify that the requirement for volunteers to show proof of vaccination or to have an approved exception will only apply when the event individuals are volunteering for is at an ODFW controlled or operated location AND where volunteers will be indoors for longer than 15 minutes cumulatively during the event ("close contact" as defined by the CDC).
So, which ODFW volunteers will need to verify their vaccination status?
- All volunteer RV (Recreational Vehicle) hosts, regardless of assignment type or location.
- Volunteers participating in a volunteer event that is at an ODFW controlled or operated location AND will be indoors for longer than 15 minutes cumulatively during the event ("close contact" as defined by the CDC).
Volunteer RV hosts and other volunteers that meet the requirements for vaccination verification will receive an email from the Volunteer Program with instructions for completing the necessary steps to provide proof of vaccination or to request an exception. At this time, we ask that volunteers only provide proof of vaccination status or submit exception requests if they are asked to by the Volunteer Program as a result of their volunteer role or a specific event that would trigger this requirement.
Thank you for volunteering for ODFW and for your support and cooperation in implementing this new requirement. |
Oregon is home to over 650 different species of fish and wildlife. These species continue to thrive because of the work of volunteers. Volunteers are vital to ensuring that the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife fulfills its mission of protecting and enhancing Oregon’s fish, wildlife, and their habitats for present and future generations. ODFW offers a variety of volunteer assignments including restoring habitat, assisting biologists with surveys, teaching fishing, archery and hunting skills, RV host at wildlife area or hatchery and participating on a task force or board.
To unsubscribe from receiving emails send an email to odfw.volunteerprogram@odfw.oregon.gov with “unsubscribe” in the subject line.
- Bring enthusiasm, energy, and ideas to ODFW
- Donate thousands of hours of time
- Increase the quality of ODFW projects and services
- Advocate for ODFW and for Oregon's resources
- Support programs that protect fish and wildlife
- Actively participate in resource management activities
- Bring expertise and skills to ODFW
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- Interact with new people
- Give back to the fish, wildlife and habitat you care about and enjoy
- Work with ODFW staff
- Put professional skills and expertise to good use
- Gain new skills and experience
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Monitoring wood duck boxes
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Loading up for backpack fish stocking |
Region Wildlife Volunteer Programs
Assist with wildlife surveys, habitat improvement, nest box building and monitoring, public education, carpentry, computer and clerical work. |
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Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program (STEP)
Complete stream habitat restoration work, conduct surveys, help with education projects, or hatch and rear salmon and trout eggs. |
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Volunteer Host Program (RV Required)
Join other RV owners from across the nation who live and work for a month or more at one of our hatcheries, wildlife areas or offices. |
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Angler Education Program
Become a certified volunteer instructor and teach basic fishing skills, aquatic conservation and stewardship, ethical conduct and water safety. |
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Hunter Education Program
Continue to make hunting a safe and enjoyable pastime in Oregon by teaching safe and responsible hunting techniques and skills to others. |
Volunteers annually donate more than 200,000 hours of service.
Their skills, devotion, and willingness to help where needed, provide enormous support to our agency.
Each year, ODFW tracks the number of volunteers and their hours.
Download the Volunteer Program Annual Report 2020 (pdf) for more details. |
