Help prepare nest boxes for the breeding season in spring, or assist with cleaning and inspections in fall. An ideal opportunity for physically active volunteers looking for a short, hands-on experience.
When:
Early April (spring) and late September (fall). Dates depend on tides and weather. Each is a half-day activity.
Where:
The Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary Wildlife Management Areas, Squamish.
- Access is via Spit Road and the Chelem trail.
- The 30 nest boxes are located on two structures in the marsh, about 150 m from the parking area.
Who:
The opportunity is best suited to physically active individuals. Volunteers must be comfortable:
- Walking on slippery, uneven terrain
- Carrying and lifting equipment
- Climbing ladders and working at heights
- Cleaning out dirty nest boxes
What is involved?
You will walk ~150 m from the parking area to the nest box structures carrying equipment. The route is muddy, slippery, and uneven, and will require wading through a shallow channel depending on the tide. Depending on the season, you will:
- Spring – Inspect and fix boxes, add fresh nesting material.
- Fall – Scrape out old nesting material and record nest box usage data.
More information:
Access to the site involves driving a 3.5 km gravel road, walking a short section of flat trail, and a 100 m walk/wade through estuary marsh. Carpooling can be arranged.
- Required footwear: Tall rubber boots or hip waders.
- Fall only: Face mask and glasses are recommended; protective full-arm rubber gloves will be provided for cleaning the boxes.