Our docent program provides an opportunity for volunteers to work directly with the public as they visit the salt marsh and tour the Institute. The docent program begins in June, with several training courses covering subjects such as wetlands ecology, birds, marine animals, dunes & beaches, and a boat tour through the marsh. After that, most new docents work with veterans and staff as they lead the public through a Salt Marsh Safari walk.

We have other roles for docents too. Some prefer to stay in the Secrets of the Salt Marsh Aquarium, introducing visitors to the animals in our teaching tank. Some docents lead dune walks in Avalon. Still others hit the road to festivals and other events, where the Wetlands Institute sets up traveling touch tanks with animals like crabs, sea stars, and diamondback terrapins.

The docent program is perfect for anyone looking to spend a handful of hours each week interacting with visitors of all ages while increasing your own knowledge about coastal ecology. Most docents volunteer in the summertime, but there are opportunities throughout the year for those who live locally. Docents also participate in special activities like whale watches and covered dish dinners. To find out more or to volunteer, contact the Director of Education at (609)368-1211 or education@wetlandsinstitute.org.