Get Involved: Montrose (Area 18)

General CPW staff support in the Montrose area. Volunteers may work with local district wildlife managers or other area staff on a variety of projects as needed.

This volunteer role ‘adopts’ local nest boxes at a specific site in the Montrose/Ridgway area and assists with cleaning and monitoring bluebird houses. You may also help build and mount new bluebird houses.

Assist the Area Terrestrial Biologist with deer-related projects. These may include trapping and collaring efforts around Montrose and on the Uncompahgre Plateau, or survey work. This role can be strenuous and sometimes dangerous.

Dan Noble State Wildlife Area (SWA), along with Miramonte Reservoir, is a treasured gem located in remote southwest Colorado and cherished by local residents and out-of-state visitors alike. The Host will be within driving distance to the towns of Norwood, Nucla, and Naturita that all have their own set of amenities and charm. Dan Noble SWA is located in a bowl on the north side of San Juan Mountains and is home to many wildlife species such as mule deer, elk, and migratory birds at various times of the year. Miramonte Reservoir provides one of the best fisheries in Colorado; Not only with several trout species – browns, rainbows and cutthroats – but also a very healthy native crayfish population. Dan Noble SWA has 20 primitive camping sites and fire pits available on a first come first serve basis.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

• Clean and maintain campgrounds, outhouse and day use areas
• Provide basic maintenance to buildings, outhouses and picnic tables
• Monitor cistern levels and hauling water as needed
• Keep and maintain a daily log of camping use by visitors
• Greet and provide general fishing and hunting information as well as general camping knowledge to people visiting the area.
• Clean and maintain outhouse at Woods Lake SWA (about 46.5 miles to the east) once a week.

Hosts must be able to live in a remote area and enjoy meeting and interacting with people from all walks of life. Must be able to perform basic maintenance on the campground and facilities. Experience with maintenance and carpentry beneficial, but not required. Should be able to lift/drag 60-70 pounds.

Site elevation:

7,500 ft.

Looking for 1-2 hosts for the 2024 season!

We are looking for a couple/pair, although individuals will be considered. Hosts are allowed to have pets as long as set rules are followed.