ADDISON — The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is seeking volunteers to serve as department ambassadors and greet visitors at the new Dead Creek Visitor Center in Addison. The department will host a new volunteer training workshop on two consecutive Saturdays, April 21 and 28, in the Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area conference room.
The Dead Creek Visitor Center opened on the north side of Route 17 East in Addison in September 2017 and has been operating under limited hours this winter. By fully staffing the center this spring, the Fish & Wildlife Department is hoping to broaden hours of operation and opportunities for the public to visit the center.
The training will focus on customer service, the Fish & Wildlife Department’s mission, and tools to assist visitors about the region, the exhibits and the wildlife management area. Volunteers will receive the resources and information to effectively answer questions and be a knowledgeable guide to visitors.
“We’re looking for volunteers who enjoy talking to people and have a strong interest in fish and wildlife, conservation and wildlife-based recreation,” said Amy Alfieri, wildlife biologist and manager of the Dead Creek Visitor Center. “You don’t have to be an expert, just have an enthusiasm for sharing information with visitors.”
Various shifts are available for volunteers from May through mid-November, with a possible extension through the winter.  Volunteers and participants in the training must be 18 years of age, attend the entire two-day training, and agree to a background check.  There is no charge for the training, and all curriculum materials will be provided.  Pre-registration is required by April 15 by calling 802-759-2398 or emailing [email protected].