ODFW Volunteer Programs Background

To help protect the safety and welfare of the public, ODFW staff, and other volunteers, all volunteers will be subject to a screening process prior to beginning volunteer service. The screening process can include the following:

• Online registration.
• Reference checks.
• Oregon Driver's Records check (if applicable).
• One or more of the three processes to check the criminal history of a volunteer:
• Oregon State Criminal History check.
• Oregon State Fish & Wildlife Violation check.
• National Background Check based on fingerprints.

National Background checks based on fingerprints, Oregon State Criminal History check and Oregon Fish & Wildlife violation checks are required for people volunteering in roles that include:

• The use and handling of firearms and/or munitions.
• Residing on ODFW property or property managed by ODFW
• Interaction with unaccompanied minors or populations designated as vulnerable
• Representing ODFW in an official capacity or leadership role

  Examples include but are not limited to the following:

  • Hunter Education Instructor.
  • Waterfowl Hunting Mentor.
  • Bowhunter Education Instructor.
  • National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) Instructor.
  • RV Host.

Oregon State Fish & Wildlife Violation checks are required for people volunteering in roles that include:

• Handling native or sensitive species.
• Access to sensitive information.

Examples include but are not limited to the following:

• Spotlight surveys.
• Data collection projects on native or endangered species.
• Anti-poaching campaign specialist.

Oregon Driver's Record check is required for people volunteering in roles that include:

• Driving a state vehicle.
• Hauling an ODFW boat or trailer with a personal vehicle.