Opportunities From: Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority

We welcome Open Space Authority Volunteers to respond to this request for ongoing support in our preserves. Trail Patrol Volunteers serve as agency ambassadors, greeting all members of the public in our preserves. Volunteers should complete these activities between the hours of sunrise and sunset in one of three preserves: Sierra Vista OSP, Coyote Valley OSP, and Rancho Cañada del Oro OSP. Please wear an Open Space Authority branded volunteer shirt, a name tag, and appropriate footwear.

The goal is to engage other guests and improve their experience, we do not need volunteers to enforce rules. Rather, please report activities that are outside the guidelines for visitation in your hours reports so that staff will be able to review and respond appropriately. For staff contacts and guidelines on engagement, please see the Volunteer Resource Guide linked on the Volunteer Resource Page in the sidebar menu. 

Trail Patrol 'reports' are submitted under the hours report for this opportunity. You only need to sign up for this opportunity once per year and the system will allow you to submit reports on your own time rather than at pre-selected patrols. In your hours report please note damage to trails or infrastructure (plus locations), as well as interactions with preserve visitors and any feedback they have about  their experience. 

Trail Patrol volunteers should not go to Máyyan Òoyákma Open Space Preserve to complete patrols, as we have a distinct volunteer role in that preserve to support this function, called 'Preserve Steward support at Máyyan Òoyákma'. If you are interested in supporting that effort, please contact Mel Sarmento.

Please note that trail patrol opportunities expire on a yearly basis, this one will expire on Dec. 31 2026. 

What is the latest news with CVCAMP? What is Coyote Valley Discovery Days? Join us and find out!!!

This presentation is exclusively for Open Space Authority and POST volunteers to get the latest about the CVCAMP project timeline, CVCAMP concept alternatives and most importantly make time to answer those questions we know our volunteers want to ask. As spring unfolds and we seek public input on the future of habitat restoration, agriculture and public recreation plans for this protected land, we need volunteers to help us spread the call to action! Join Jenn Peth, Senior Open Space Planner, and Will Ware, Coyote Valley Conservation Areas Open Space Aide for an informative 30 minute presentation and Q & A. 

In this fun and informative presentation we will familiarize  volunteers with the resources that will be present in the Community Outreach booth this spring. We will also inform them of what to share with the public through meaningful interactions. 

The Open Space Authority will host this on our agency Zoom and we will share that information with all registered volunteers via email 24 hours before the event. 

Sign up if you are interested, we will send you the lesson for review! The content is very thorough, and we would like to have a small group lead so more folks can be trained to lead in the future.

Let Mel know if you're curious. Details below!

Volunteer shift time: 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Date: Friday, April 10, 2026

Here are the details for the program - from the Eventbrite Description

Come enjoy open access at the North Coyote Valley Hill!

This beginner-friendly hike is approximately one mile round-trip and includes just 100 feet in elevation gain, over a gradual incline. On top of the hill, take in 360-degree views of Coyote Valley and the dynamic landscape we are planning to restore! Take your understanding deeper with an optional guided hike to learn more about the many benefits that Coyote Valley provides to our community and the wildlife that call this place home.

Optional guided hikes: Hike 1: 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

                                          Hike 2: 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

What to bring:

Location: North Coyote Valley HIll is at the corner of Santa Teresa Blvd and Bailey Ave in South San Jose. Exit HWY 101 on Bailey Ave (if heading northbound, you will turn right, and if southbound, you will turn left). Continue onto Bailey until Santa Teresa Blvd, then turn left. Drive carefully, as the entrance will come up quickly on your right-hand side (about .4 miles from the intersection).

Entrance coordinates: 37.195372, -121.734436

This event is part of Coyote Valley Discovery Days!

Habitat Protection Hikes at Máyyan ‘Ooyákma - Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve- Hike Sweeps Needed!

To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation ONLY on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a docent-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail. Please note that there are no guided hikes on March 21/28 because those days are designated as Open Access Days. If you are interested in helping on those days you may sign up for a patrol under the Preserve Stewards Patrol Opportunity. 

These guided hikes up the Bay Checkerspot Trail will have over 500 ft of elevation gain. The loop hike has steep ascents and descents. Comfortable hiking shoes and hiking poles are recommended. More details will be sent out to preserve stewards as we get closer to the dates!

Preserve Steward Sweep Role

With preserve stewards as occasional sweeps, we can offer many  more docent led programs  because our numbers will stretch farther. If there is an emergency or if someone needs to leave a hike early on the weekend, you can help us take care of that.

DETAILS: To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation only on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a docent-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail.

Fresh Air and Flowers Hikes at Máyyan 'Ooyákma! 

To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation ONLY on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a volunteer-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail.

The hikes below are the shifts/hikes that we are offering to the public. In addition to our educational/interpretive 'Habitat Protection Hikes' we are offering 'Fresh Air and Flowers' Hikes. These are intended to be less educational,  have minimal stops, while still giving the public guided access on the ridge.

Since these hikes are not interpretive, preserve stewards are welcome to sign up if they would like to guide a group in the preserve on one of these hikes.

Please note that shifts follow the format below.

Further information will be sent to docents upon sign-up; while there are two slots for each hike, both docents should be prepared to lead.

Below is the Info We Provide to Public Attendees:

These guided hikes up the Bay Checkerspot Trail will have over 500 ft of elevation gain. The loop hike has steep ascents and descents. Comfortable hiking shoes and hiking poles are recommended. 

CANCELLATIONS: For public safety, rain and red flag warnings will cancel hikes.

IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND AFTER REGISTERING PLEASE cancel your reservation so others may attend

PARKING: Each ticket is for one parking spot, you will only need one ticket per car. Feel free to bring as many people in your car as you can safely fit. You may also choose to use alternative transportation and get dropped off at the front gate, walk, or ride a bicycle. If you choose to arrive this way, you will not be permitted to park at the preserve.

SPRING HIKE DETAILS: To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation only on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a docent-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail. 'Fresh Air and Flowers' Hikes have minimal educational stops and are prime opportunity to get to see the preserve with minimal interruption while still providing docent guidance. 

HOW TO PREPARE: Please wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and come prepared to hike in the outdoors with appropriate clothing and sun protection. Hiking poles are recommended.

Fresh Air and Flowers at Máyyan ‘Ooyákma - Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve- Hike Sweeps Needed!

Please note shifts are listed below. 

To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation ONLY on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a volunteer-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail. The hikes below are the shifts/hikes that we are offering to the public. In addition to our educational/interpretive 'Habitat Protection Hikes' we are offering 'Fresh Air and Flowers' Hikes. These are intended to be less educational,  have minimal stops, while still giving the public guided access on the ridge.

Further information will be sent to preserve steward sweeps upon sign-up.

Below is the Info We Provide to Public Attendees:

These guided hikes up the Bay Checkerspot Trail will have over 500 ft of elevation gain. The loop hike has steep ascents and descents. Comfortable hiking shoes and hiking poles are recommended. 

CANCELLATIONS: For public safety, rain and red flag warnings will cancel hikes. IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND AFTER REGISTERING PLEASE cancel your reservation so others may attend

PARKING: Each ticket is for one parking spot, you will only need one ticket per car. Feel free to bring as many people in your car as you can safely fit. You may also choose to use alternative transportation and get dropped off at the front gate, walk, or ride a bicycle. If you choose to arrive this way, you will not be permitted to park at the preserve.

SPRING HIKE DETAILS: To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation only on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a docent-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail. 'Fresh Air and Flowers' Hikes have minimal educational stops and are prime opportunity to get to see the preserve with minimal interruption while still providing docent guidance. 

HOW TO PREPARE: Please wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and come prepared to hike in the outdoors with appropriate clothing and sun protection. Hiking poles are recommended.

We are hosting a brief training for Starry Nights Preserve Stewards (or aspiring Starry Nights Preserve Stewards) in order to get everyone on the same page regarding the set-up and protocols for our incredibly popular Starry Nights program!

You will learn:

We hope that by taking this training any Starry Nights preserve steward can help us maintain a high-quality and consistent experience for the public. 

Location: Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve:

What should I bring? Let us know if you have questions or concerns.

More information About Starry Nights:

Notes: 

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

We are seeking 3-4 docents to come help us with an exciting Earth Day event that we will be hosting at MOCR. We will be engaging with visitors with games, partner tables, crafts and exploration as a part of our Open Access Day!

As a part of the celebration we will have a giant butterfly garland, sun-printing bracelet making, butterfly crafts, wiggly wooden snakes as well as some engaging interpretive stations and games for families. 

Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your shift so that you can get a debrief and be assigned to a station.

We are seeking three volunteer Preserve Stewards each Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday (in addition to Open Access Days, April 19 & April 26) in spring to support operations at MOCR. These volunteers will perform patrols in the Habitat Protection Zone starting at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 12:00 p.m.
Preserve Steward Solo Patrols - shifts begin on the half hour. 

We need three patrols each Wednesday, Thursday and Friday in the Habitat Protection Zone.  

The goals of patrols are to check butterfly passes of visitors on trail, to observe and report the condition of trails and interpretive infrastructure, and to report observed violations of preserve rules. We expect volunteers to engage visitors to check butterfly passes. In your hours report, please input direction (clockwise/counterclockwise) and length (full/partial) of the patrol. Please select project name: 'Habitat Protection Team'. 

Weekday volunteers will be supported by field staff supplying the welcome booth kit, table, antler and OSA devices. Field staff will stage these items at the central gathering area. Inside the welcome booth kit will be three patrol hip-bags each containing an OSA wifi-enabled device, QR code for obtaining a butterfly pass, paper passes and receipts, contact info for field staff, a pen and small notebook. When you have completed your patrol, please make sure you have submitted all observations, you have turned off the OSA device, and return the bag to the OSA Field tech stationed at the preserve so that they can return it to the knack box to be charged. VET’s staff will not be present on weekdays, but there will be field staff on site for support should the need arise.  

Volunteers at Máyyan 'Ooyákma should arrive with OSA branded volunteer shirt or orange vest, nametag, appropriate layers, sun protection, and plenty of snacks and water for their shift.  

Please reach out to Kat Hill at khill@openspaceauthority.org if you have any additional questions about this role. 

Ed Rooks is leading.  He needs at least 1 sweep to help with the walk. 

Ed Rooks is leading.  He needs at least 1 sweep to help with the walk. 

Fresh Air and Flowers at Máyyan ‘Ooyákma - Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve- Hike Sweeps Needed!

Please note: Shifts for March 8 start at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. All other shifts are listed below. 

To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation ONLY on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a volunteer-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail. The hikes below are the shifts/hikes that we are offering to the public. In addition to our educational/interpretive 'Habitat Protection Hikes' we are offering 'Fresh Air and Flowers' Hikes. These are intended to be less educational,  have minimal stops, while still giving the public guided access on the ridge.

Further information will be sent to preserve steward sweeps upon sign-up.

Below is the Info We Provide to Public Attendees:

These guided hikes up the Bay Checkerspot Trail will have over 500 ft of elevation gain. The loop hike has steep ascents and descents. Comfortable hiking shoes and hiking poles are recommended. 

CANCELLATIONS: For public safety, rain and red flag warnings will cancel hikes. IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND AFTER REGISTERING PLEASE cancel your reservation so others may attend

PARKING: Each ticket is for one parking spot, you will only need one ticket per car. Feel free to bring as many people in your car as you can safely fit. You may also choose to use alternative transportation and get dropped off at the front gate, walk, or ride a bicycle. If you choose to arrive this way, you will not be permitted to park at the preserve.

SPRING HIKE DETAILS: To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation only on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a docent-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail. 'Fresh Air and Flowers' Hikes have minimal educational stops and are prime opportunity to get to see the preserve with minimal interruption while still providing docent guidance. 

HOW TO PREPARE: Please wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and come prepared to hike in the outdoors with appropriate clothing and sun protection. Hiking poles are recommended.

We are seeking 3-4 docents to come help us with an exciting Earth Day event that we will be hosting at Santana Row! We will be engaging our neighbors with a wide suite of activities including tables from CVCAMP and partners, face-painting, live music and family friendly crafts and activities. 

CVCAMP will be sharing the alternative concepts for the Coyote Valley planning efforts and we will be there to draw in the crowds and engage families around the importance of wildlife. We will be located at Park Valencia, and will have bracelet making, butterfly crafts, wiggly wooden snakes as well as some engaging interpretive stations with pelts, bones skulls and microscopes.

Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your shift so that you can get a debrief and be assigned to a station. Save all receipts so that you can be reimbursed for parking after the event.

We are seeking 3-4 docents to come help us with an exciting event co-hosted with the Coyote Valley Conservation Areas Master Plan at the Children's Discovery Museum!

CVCAMP will be sharing alternative concepts for the Coyote Valley planning efforts and we will be there to draw in the crowds and engage families around the importance of wildlife. We will be located under the scenic Museum Portico, and will have bracelet making, butterfly crafts, wiggly wooden snakes as well as some engaging interpretive stations with pelts, bones skulls and microscopes. In addition, the Children's Discovery Museum will be hosting a Nowruz event so we expect to meet lots of curious families while we are there. 

Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your shift so that you can get a debrief and be assigned to a station. Save all receipts so that you can be reimbursed for parking after the event. 

Fresh Air and Flowers Hikes at Máyyan 'Ooyákma! 

To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation ONLY on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a volunteer-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail.

The hikes below are the shifts/hikes that we are offering to the public. In addition to our educational/interpretive 'Habitat Protection Hikes' we are offering 'Fresh Air and Flowers' Hikes. These are intended to be less educational,  have minimal stops, while still giving the public guided access on the ridge.

Please note that March 8 hikes start at 10 and 11 a.m. All other shifts follow the format below.

Further information will be sent to docents upon sign-up; while there are two slots for each hike, both docents should be prepared to lead.

Below is the Info We Provide to Public Attendees:

These guided hikes up the Bay Checkerspot Trail will have over 500 ft of elevation gain. The loop hike has steep ascents and descents. Comfortable hiking shoes and hiking poles are recommended. 

CANCELLATIONS: For public safety, rain and red flag warnings will cancel hikes.

IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND AFTER REGISTERING PLEASE cancel your reservation so others may attend

PARKING: Each ticket is for one parking spot, you will only need one ticket per car. Feel free to bring as many people in your car as you can safely fit. You may also choose to use alternative transportation and get dropped off at the front gate, walk, or ride a bicycle. If you choose to arrive this way, you will not be permitted to park at the preserve.

SPRING HIKE DETAILS: To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation only on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a docent-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail. 'Fresh Air and Flowers' Hikes have minimal educational stops and are prime opportunity to get to see the preserve with minimal interruption while still providing docent guidance. 

HOW TO PREPARE: Please wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and come prepared to hike in the outdoors with appropriate clothing and sun protection. Hiking poles are recommended.

Join VET's staff from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on May 9, 2026 to learn all about how to use interpretive techniques for engaging our preserve audiences! We will go over our mission and resources, engagement techniques for all roles and for all attendees. We hope you can make it to this training date so that you will be prepared for volunteering with us.

We will be hosting our training at the Tilton Ranch Complex-- a great place to bird, learn about agriculture and local history! If weather is uncooperative, we will train at our offices at 33 Las Colinas Lane. 

This training is a qualification for representing the Authority as a Community Outreach Volunteer, supporting large scale public events such as Open Access events as a Preserve Steward, or for participating in trail patrol. This training is also required for volunteers who wish to help out as a part of the Habitat Protection Team at Máyyan 'Ooyákma. We want all volunteers to be well-versed in our mission, values and resources so please take this opportunity to come learn with us!

Please sign up before May 5 to ensure staff have time to prepare you a name-tag, volunteer shirt and send out directions. Please email gcomstock@openspaceauthority.org directly if you are trying to sign up after May 5.

Habitat Protection Hikes at Máyyan 'Ooyákma! 

To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation ONLY on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a docent-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail.

Please note that April 19 and April 26 will be Open Access Days and therefore will not have guided hike access. If you would like to help on Open Access Days, please see the Preserve Steward Hike Patrols Opportunity and you can sign up for a shift to patrol the preserve during open access. 

The hikes below are the shifts/hikes that we are offering to the public; these hikes are intended to be educational and interpretive. There will be an additional hike called 'Fresh Air and Flowers' that is purely hiking and sightseeing focused; this will be added under a different opportunity. 

Further information will be sent to docents upon sign-up; while there are two slots for each hike, both docents should be prepared to lead.

Below is the Info We Provide to Public Attendees:

These guided hikes up the Bay Checkerspot Trail will have over 500 ft of elevation gain. The loop hike has steep ascents and descents. Comfortable hiking shoes and hiking poles are recommended. 

CANCELLATIONS: For public safety, rain and red flag warnings will cancel hikes.

IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND AFTER REGISTERING PLEASE cancel your reservation so others may attend

PARKING: Each ticket is for one parking spot, you will only need one ticket per car. Feel free to bring as many people in your car as you can safely fit. You may also choose to use alternative transportation and get dropped off at the front gate, walk, or ride a bicycle. If you choose to arrive this way, you will not be permitted to park at the preserve.

SPRING HIKE DETAILS: To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation only on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a docent-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail.

HOW TO PREPARE: Please wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and come prepared to hike in the outdoors with appropriate clothing and sun protection. Hiking poles are recommended.

Habitat Protection Hikes at Máyyan ‘Ooyákma - Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve- Hike Sweeps Needed!

To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation ONLY on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a docent-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail. Please note that there are no guided hikes on April 19 and April 26 because those days are designated as Open Access Days.

If you are interested in helping on those days you may sign up for a patrol under the Preserve Stewards Patrol Opportunity. 

These guided hikes up the Bay Checkerspot Trail will have over 500 ft of elevation gain. The loop hike has steep ascents and descents. Comfortable hiking shoes and hiking poles are recommended. More details will be sent out to preserve stewards as we get closer to the dates!

Preserve Steward Sweep Role

With preserve stewards as occasional sweeps, we can offer many  more docent led programs  because our numbers will stretch farther. If there is an emergency or if someone needs to leave a hike early on the weekend, you can help us take care of that.

DETAILS: To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation only on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a docent-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail.

Volunteer Ambassadors needed for Nowruz! at Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose on March 21, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This fun, seasonal event will draw enthusiastic crowds and we hope to connect and share upcoming spring programming for families. 

Discover the beautiful customs and traditions of Nowruz and how the Persian New Year is celebrated around the world. Join us as we welcome spring, new beginnings, and the renewal of nature with this ancient holiday observed by more than 300 million people worldwide. Enjoy traditional music and dance, learn about the Haft-sin table arrangement, and engage in hands-on art activities to honor the spring equinox that kicks off the ‘new day’ celebration.

We are seeking 2 enthusiastic volunteers to join a VET's team staff member at the City of Santa Clara's annual Arbor Day celebration!

The celebration is scheduled for Thursday, April 2, 2026 from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM at the Triton Museum of Art. The event is designed to provide students from grades K through 5th a day filled with music, activities and information on how to preserve the earth’s natural resources with everyday actions. That is where we come in! 

As details around parking and other logistics are shared, this event will be updated. For now, what we know is represented here and we hope to identify volunteer support to help us see it through. The event is well attended and having a team ensures we can meet the level of interest we anticipate. 

We are seeking three volunteer Preserve Stewards each Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday (in addition to Open Access Days, March 21/28) in spring to support operations at MOCR. These volunteers will perform patrols in the Habitat Protection Zone starting at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 12:00 p.m.
Preserve Steward Solo Patrols - shifts begin on the half hour. 

We need three patrols each Wednesday, Thursday and Friday in the Habitat Protection Zone.  

The goals of patrols are to check butterfly passes of visitors on trail, to observe and report the condition of trails and interpretive infrastructure, and to report observed violations of preserve rules. We expect volunteers to engage visitors to check butterfly passes. In your hours report, please input direction (clockwise/counterclockwise) and length (full/partial) of the patrol. Please select project name: 'Habitat Protection Team'. 

Weekday volunteers will be supported by field staff supplying the welcome booth kit, table, antler and OSA devices. Field staff will stage these items at the central gathering area. Inside the welcome booth kit will be three patrol hip-bags each containing an OSA wifi-enabled device, QR code for obtaining a butterfly pass, paper passes and receipts, contact info for field staff, a pen and small notebook. When you have completed your patrol, please make sure you have submitted all observations, you have turned off the OSA device, and return the bag to the OSA Field tech stationed at the preserve so that they can return it to the knack box to be charged. VET’s staff will not be present on weekdays, but there will be field staff on site for support should the need arise.  

Volunteers at Máyyan 'Ooyákma should arrive with OSA branded volunteer shirt or orange vest, nametag, appropriate layers, sun protection, and plenty of snacks and water for their shift.  

Please reach out to Kat Hill at khill@openspaceauthority.org if you have any additional questions about this role. 

TM Volunteer support request for trail weed eating work Little Uvas Open Space Preserve. This property is not open to the public on a regular basis, featuring three ponds, a small trail network, and an old ranch site it never fails to provide something cool to see. Wildflowers are also a bonus at this time of year.

Space for 8 volunteers. Please bring all provided PPE. Attending volunteers should look for a white open space tear drop flag off Uvas Rd, that will make the turn into the property.

To find this preserve, go to Rancho but instead of turning off of McKean onto Casa Loma, continue forward. McKean turns into Uvas Rd after Casa Loma and afew miles later is the turn for the preserve. Opportunity map link can be used for navigation.

9:00 a.m. meet up in the main staging area parking zone. 

Support request for hearty TM Volunteer support. Per conditions when the date arrives we will be addressing our trail corridors. Weed eating, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) support tackling invasive plants, or tread work make up the menu of options. The final call will be a weather dependent decision. Recent rain might tip the scales to tread work. Drier conditions may open the door for weed eating trail corridors. Somewhere in between might present a chance to address invasive plants on our trail corridors using hand tools and power tools. Any way you slice it, this will be a great day to join. 

Space for 8 TM volunteers. Bring your full PPE equipment bag to be prepared for the call we make. Do not leave any PPE at home! 

Please arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. and park in the staging area. TM Volunteers will depart from there with staff for the day.

Support request for hearty TM Volunteer support. Per conditions when the date arrives we will be addressing our trail corridors. Weed eating, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) support tackling invasive plants, or tread work make up the menu of options. The final call will be a weather dependent decision. Recent rain might tip the scales to tread work. Drier conditions may open the door for weed eating trail corridors. Somewhere in between might present a chance to address invasive plants on our trail corridors using hand tools and power tools. Any way you slice it, this will be a great day to join. 

Space for 8 TM volunteers. Bring your full PPE equipment bag to be prepared for the call we make. Do not leave any PPE at home! 

Please arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. and park in the staging area. TM Volunteers will depart from there with staff for the day.

TM Volunteer support request for this day of weed eating at Blair Barn. Please arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. and park at the Barn. Per our wildfire preparation and fules management plan we will focus on the grounds around the main barn, sheds, and corral.

BONUS: Wildflowers are a distinct possibility as the Blair Barn is a seasonal treat.

The turn off of Uvas Rd onto the gravel drive will be marked with one of our white tear drop OSA flags.

Space for up to 8 volunteers. Volunteer Trail Masters should bring all PPE provided.

Volunteer Trail Masters bring all needed water and calories for a safe day with the team.

Habitat Protection Hikes at Máyyan 'Ooyákma! 

To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation ONLY on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a docent-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail.

Please note that March 21 and 28 will be Open Access Days and therefore will not have guided hike access. If you would like to help on Open Access Days, please see the Preserve Steward Hike Patrols Opportunity and you can sign up for a shift to patrol the preserve during open access. 

The hikes below are the shifts/hikes that we are offering to the public; these hikes are intended to be educational and interpretive. There will be an additional hike called 'Fresh Air and Flowers' that is purely hiking and sightseeing focused; this will be added under a different opportunity. 

Further information will be sent to docents upon sign-up; while there are two slots for each hike, both docents should be prepared to lead.

Below is the Info We Provide to Public Attendees:

These guided hikes up the Bay Checkerspot Trail will have over 500 ft of elevation gain. The loop hike has steep ascents and descents. Comfortable hiking shoes and hiking poles are recommended. 

CANCELLATIONS: For public safety, rain and red flag warnings will cancel hikes.

IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND AFTER REGISTERING PLEASE cancel your reservation so others may attend

PARKING: Each ticket is for one parking spot, you will only need one ticket per car. Feel free to bring as many people in your car as you can safely fit. You may also choose to use alternative transportation and get dropped off at the front gate, walk, or ride a bicycle. If you choose to arrive this way, you will not be permitted to park at the preserve.

SPRING HIKE DETAILS: To help protect this sensitive and unique ecosystem, in March, April, and May the trails will be open by reservation only on Saturdays and Sundays. During this time, the public must sign up here for a docent-led hike to access the Bay Checkerspot trail, the Tule Elk Trail, and the Serpentine Spring Trail.

HOW TO PREPARE: Please wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and come prepared to hike in the outdoors with appropriate clothing and sun protection. Hiking poles are recommended.

The Open Space Authority is excited to support and participate in Mexica (May-she-cuh) New Year 2026. Help us engage with members of our community at fantastic annual event! OSA staff will provide a booth with Spanish language materials, games, furs and skulls to engage with visitors! Spanish speaking volunteers are desired but not required. Shifts are from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday March 14 and Sunday March 15 with two volunteers per shift. All shifts will be supported and accompanied by VET's team staff.

Materials will be dropped off beforehand -- am volunteer will need to arrive on time, help set up the booth and engage with guests during their shift. Afternoon volunteers will engage with visitors until 5pm and then break the booth down before leaving. We look forward to your help as we connect with and share our mission of open space, connectivity and healthy communities as well as the upcoming spring wildflower programming for the public.

This popular event usually requires volunteers to deal with traffic around entry and finding parking, plus some walking to get to the booth. We will share parking tips and instructions with registered volunteers before the event date. Drumming and dance are front and center at this event. Loud noise, high volume foot traffic and excellent guest interactions are the norm. We look forward to your support at this event we help as a sponsor.

We are seeking two volunteer Preserve Stewards each Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday in spring to support operations at MOCR. These volunteers will provide public engagement support in the gateway property using the welcome booth, beginning at 9:45 a.m. each day.

Welcome Booth Preserve Stewards – shifts begin at 15 minutes to the hour.  We need two Preserve Stewards serving in the gateway property to respond to visitor questions, help them obtain butterfly passes when needed, and ensure guests learn how to appropriately enjoy the trails found in the Habitat Protection Zone.  Welcome Booth Preserve Stewards shifts are from 9:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. All supporting materials needed for this role will be staged each morning at the central gathering area. Volunteers are expected to set up the welcome booth, engage guests to the preserve, keep track of visitor interactions using the welcome booth end of day form, and enter all data into the Survey123 app at the end of their shift.  Volunteers will also take down all welcome booth items at the end of their shift and hand off to staff. Please mention you served in the welcome booth in your hours report and select project name ‘Habitat Protection Team’.

Weekday volunteers will be supported by staff supplying the welcome booth kit, table, antler and OSA devices. Staff will stage these items at the central gathering area. Inside the welcome booth kit will be three patrol hip-bags each containing an OSA wifi-enabled device, QR code for obtaining a butterfly pass, paper passes and receipts, contact info for field staff, a pen and small notebook.

Volunteers at Máyyan 'Ooyákma should arrive with OSA branded volunteer shirt or orange vest, nametag, appropriate layers, sun protection, and plenty of snacks and water for their shift.  

Please reach out to Kat Hill at khill@openspaceauthority.org if you have any additional questions about this role. 

The Basics

Volunteer shift date & time: Varies - specific times shown in YELLOW below

Program Time: Varies - shown below in white

Location: Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve:

Project code (when recording your well-deserved volunteer hours): Starry Nights

Volunteer Shift time (shown in YELLOW below)

Tell me more!

⭐Description: Join us to help with Starry Nights at Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve! Assist us and our partners from San Jose Astronomical Association (SJAA) to bring the excitement of our glittery skies to the community - and learn some stuff while you're at it! Don't know stars? No problem! That's why we got the pros.

What we'll need help with is ensuring the event runs smoothly and efficiently - we hope you'll sign up and join us for one of our most popular events.

What we're asking YOU to help with:

What should I bring? Let us know if you have questions or concerns.

More information:

Notes: 

What we told the public:

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Dates (pick one or all!):

Shift time: 9:00 PM - 11:30 PM

Program Run Time (when the public is there): 9:30 PM - 11:00 PM

What you'll be doing: We will need volunteers to help with set up, tear down, parking, check in guests, and make sure guests have an enjoyable night stargazing.

The actual event goes from 9:30 PM - 11:00 PM. By about 10:00pm most guests will have arrived, and you can enjoy the rest of the night stargazing! At 11:00pm we will start cleaning up and we should be all wrapped up by 11:30 PM.

Where: Binocular Stargazing will be held at Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve: 599 Palm Ave, Morgan Hill, CA 95037

What to bring: Volunteer shirt, high-vis-vest, flashlight with a red-light option, comfortable walking shoes, light layers, a camp chair, and some binoculars!

About the event: We run this event in partnership with the San Jose Astronomical Association (SJAA). SJAA does the educational astronomy and we run the parking and check in. When guests arrive, we will get the checked in and then they will make their way over to the astronomers. There will be about 10 astronomers. Each astronomer will walk their group through the night sky, pointing out what can be seen with just binoculars! There are usually about 40 guests who come and join us for these events!

When submitting hours please use Project Code: Starry Nights