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. |
ODFW Volunteer hosts have been a valuable and committed resource for more than 29 years. In 2019, 141 volunteer hosts donated 41,969 hours (the equivalents of $1,489,900.00) incontributions for ODFW. Our departmentis one of Oregon’s largest agencies and touches the lives of nearly all Oregon citizens.As a host, you can help up to protect and manage our native fish and wildlife and their habitats. We are gladyou have decided to get involved.
- Challenging assignments to match your skills and interest
- Educational and rewarding experiences
- Worker’s compensation
- RV sites with hookups and other amenities
The department has 45 sites at fish hatcheries, wildlife areas and district offices throughout the state. Volunteers can choose to help protect and enhance fish and wildlife in unique locations along the coast, in the mountain ranges and valleys or on the high desert.
No two sites are the same and duties may vary for location and season. Here is a sampling of job opportunities:
- Landscaping, gardening and grounds maintenance
- Fish culture- spawning, feeding, releasing fish
- Carpentry, painting and other maintenance projects
- Clerical work – computer data entry, filing and phones
- Farming to benefit wildlife, assisting at check stations
- Public outreach – greeting visitors, leading tours
- Placing nest boxes, banding ducks and geese
- Assisting disabled anglers, helping with public events
Volunteer hosts donate an average of 20 hours per week and need to make a minimum commitment of 30 days at their chosen host site. The length of a host assignment can normally range from 30 – 180 days. Host schedules – including number of hours per day, days per week and length of stay – can vary based on need or preference.
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Have a self-contained RV
- Maintain insurance on RV, personal vehicles and property
- Pass criminal history and drivers check every 4 years
- National criminal history check based on fingerprints
- Oregon Fish and Wildlife Violation check
- Oregon criminal background check
- Driving records check
- Take Required Preventing Discrimination & Harassment Training
- Watch Defensive Driving Video Link
- Read and follow ODFW policies & procedures
Please note: Everyone must fill out a form each year (in order to be in compliance with ODFW policies)
- Complete & submit paperwork & trainings
- Search for current opening
- Complete & submit site application
- Q & A with Host Coordinator
- Phone Interview with Host Site Supervisor
- Host Assignment scheduled
- Arrival day
Note: Failure to complete any of the actions listed above in a timely manner before your scheduled host assignment may lead to the cancellation of that volunteer assignment.
UPDATED: 11/08/2021
VOLUNTEER WITH US!
Host Volunteer Program Coordinator
Donna Schultz
SWWD Office - Corvallis
7118 NE Vandenberg Avenue
Corvallis, OR 97330
(541) 757-5255
donna.l.schultz@odfw.oregon.gov |
