Opportunities From: Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority

Volunteer: Jan - Dec 2026 - Preserve Stewards Needed for Starry Nights at Rancho! ⭐

We're seeking 5 volunteers to help with Starry Nights each month in 2026! ⭐


The Basics

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

Program Time: Varies - shown below in white

Note: the program run time is NOT the volunteer shift. We need volunteers to arrive early to set up, and clean up after the event ents. See the specific shift time in yellow.

Location: Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve:

4289 Casa Loma Rd, Morgan Hill, CA, 95037For more information about Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve please click here: https://www.openspaceauthority.org/preserves/rancho.html

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:

Set upTear DownParkingChecking-in guestsSupporting the simple craft station, if applicableHaving fun! Make sure our guests (and you!) have an enjoyable stargazing experience

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

Volunteer shirtHigh-vis-vestFlashlight with a red-light optionComfortable walking shoesLight layersA camp chair

More information:

The event runs for two hours. About 30 minutes after the program starts, most guests will have arrived, and you can enjoy the rest of the night stargazing! At the end of the specified "program run time" we will start cleaning up and we should be all wrapped up by an hour after the program.There will be 10 – 12 different telescopes with an astronomer at each one looking at different objects in the sky. Guests are welcome to move from station to station as they like. There are usually upwards of 80 guests who come and join us for these events!The event will be cancelled in the case of rainy weather and/or poor viewing conditions.

Notes: 

Please review the information below to ensure you're ready to go!If cloudy or inclement weather is forecasted, volunteers will be directly informed by either OSA staffPro-tip:Bring layers, good shoes, water, snacks, and everything you need to be self-sufficient for the eventThis is a popular event! - know that we'll have a full crew and roster. OSA's team is here to support how we can - please let us know if there are specific ways we can do soVolunteers need to have attended OSA's interpretive host training to participate AND be enrolled in the volunteer portal. Questions? Email Kat Hill at khill@openspaceauthority.org

What we told the public:

OSA is teaming up with San Jose Astronomical Association (SJAA) to co-host this eventIt's a "star party!" at Rancho Cañada del OroWe're going to be 20 minutes south of downtown San José, this location features night skies so dark we can see the band of our Milky Way galaxyOSA-approved SJAA club members will set up telescopes and provide tons of content and knowledge  (and of course, a fun-filled, exciting experience)During the event, the public is welcome to move freely from telescope to telescope, each one looking at a different features in the skyWe requested for the public NOT to bring their own telescope (binoculars are welcomed, but please no tripods)Gates will be closed to the public 30 minutes after the program starts to minimize headlights and create the best viewing experience. Please arrive before then (for volunteers, see the specific shift time above that differs from what we are sharing with the public)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Program: Preserve Stewards

We're seeking 5 volunteers to help with Starry Nights each month in 2026! ⭐


The Basics

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

Program Time: Varies - shown below in white

Note: the program run time is NOT the volunteer shift. We need volunteers to arrive early to set up, and clean up after the event ents. See the specific shift time in yellow.

Location: Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve:

4289 Casa Loma Rd, Morgan Hill, CA, 95037For more information about Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve please click here: https://www.openspaceauthority.org/preserves/rancho.html

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:

Set upTear DownParkingChecking-in guestsSupporting the simple craft station, if applicableHaving fun! Make sure our guests (and you!) have an enjoyable stargazing experience

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

Volunteer shirtHigh-vis-vestFlashlight with a red-light optionComfortable walking shoesLight layersA camp chair

More information:

The event runs for two hours. About 30 minutes after the program starts, most guests will have arrived, and you can enjoy the rest of the night stargazing! At the end of the specified "program run time" we will start cleaning up and we should be all wrapped up by an hour after the program.There will be 10 – 12 different telescopes with an astronomer at each one looking at different objects in the sky. Guests are welcome to move from station to station as they like. There are usually upwards of 80 guests who come and join us for these events!The event will be cancelled in the case of rainy weather and/or poor viewing conditions.

Notes: 

Please review the information below to ensure you're ready to go!If cloudy or inclement weather is forecasted, volunteers will be directly informed by either OSA staffPro-tip:Bring layers, good shoes, water, snacks, and everything you need to be self-sufficient for the eventThis is a popular event! - know that we'll have a full crew and roster. OSA's team is here to support how we can - please let us know if there are specific ways we can do soVolunteers need to have attended OSA's interpretive host training to participate AND be enrolled in the volunteer portal. Questions? Email Kat Hill at khill@openspaceauthority.org

What we told the public:

OSA is teaming up with San Jose Astronomical Association (SJAA) to co-host this eventIt's a "star party!" at Rancho Cañada del OroWe're going to be 20 minutes south of downtown San José, this location features night skies so dark we can see the band of our Milky Way galaxyOSA-approved SJAA club members will set up telescopes and provide tons of content and knowledge  (and of course, a fun-filled, exciting experience)During the event, the public is welcome to move freely from telescope to telescope, each one looking at a different features in the skyWe requested for the public NOT to bring their own telescope (binoculars are welcomed, but please no tripods)Gates will be closed to the public 30 minutes after the program starts to minimize headlights and create the best viewing experience. Please arrive before then (for volunteers, see the specific shift time above that differs from what we are sharing with the public)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Program: Preserve Stewards

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 95037

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: 2026 Docent Training

Interpretive Docent Training

Starting Wednesday January 14, 2026.

Interpretive Docent Training with Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority will provide you with tools, techniques, and content to feel confident in leading programs for our agency. 

We are looking for passionate individuals who are seeking to expand their facilitation and communication skills and connect people to the nature we all love. You do not need to be an expert biologist or historian to join. We are seeking volunteers who have a passion to learn, connect with others, and who are open to various methods of program and discussion facilitation.

This training will take place on select dates and times during January 14 to March 7 (see schedule below).  Volunteers must complete this training if they want to lead programs and hikes for the public on our managed lands.

All training resources are provided to registered volunteers.

Project name for reporting hours: Volunteer Training


Wednesday Virtual trainings are from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. - with the exception of the first training session on January 14, where in-person attendance is required.
Saturday In-person trainings are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Program: Interpretive Docents

Interpretive Docent Training

Starting Wednesday January 14, 2026.

Interpretive Docent Training with Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority will provide you with tools, techniques, and content to feel confident in leading programs for our agency. 

We are looking for passionate individuals who are seeking to expand their facilitation and communication skills and connect people to the nature we all love. You do not need to be an expert biologist or historian to join. We are seeking volunteers who have a passion to learn, connect with others, and who are open to various methods of program and discussion facilitation.

This training will take place on select dates and times during January 14 to March 7 (see schedule below).  Volunteers must complete this training if they want to lead programs and hikes for the public on our managed lands.

All training resources are provided to registered volunteers.

Project name for reporting hours: Volunteer Training


Wednesday Virtual trainings are from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. - with the exception of the first training session on January 14, where in-person attendance is required.
Saturday In-person trainings are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Program: Interpretive Docents

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 95119

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: 2/14/2026 - Meditation & Yoga Program Support

We are seeking 2 preserve stewards to support our first Meditation & Yoga Program with Dhyan Foundation!

We are piloting a Meditation & Yoga program with Dhyan Foundation! After this initial session, we will determine whether this will continue as a series.

We encourage volunteers to sign up who might be interested supporting this type of program in the future, as this could be a training for future support. 

Date: February 14, 2026

Shift Time: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

9:00 AM - 10:00 - set up & orientation10:00 AM - 12:00 PM - program run time12:00 PM - 1:00 PM - clean-up & close the site (NOTE: Mel will be there for the program, so you will not be alone and have support)

Program Run Time (when the public is there): 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Project Name for Submitting Hours: Educational Activity

Volunteer Responsibilities:

1 volunteer will help with monitoring the Willow Springs gate as participants enter and then return to the main house once everyone has arrived.1 volunteer will assist with checking in attendees and being a friendly face, as well as orienting attendees (telling them where the restroom is, etc.). Volunteers are welcome to participate once the session is over, though we need at least one volunteer to stay until the end and assist with clean-up/take-down

Not sure, but interested? Reach out to Mel & Kat: msarmento@openspaceauthority.org, khill@openspaceauthority.org


Program: Preserve Stewards

We are seeking 2 preserve stewards to support our first Meditation & Yoga Program with Dhyan Foundation!

We are piloting a Meditation & Yoga program with Dhyan Foundation! After this initial session, we will determine whether this will continue as a series.

We encourage volunteers to sign up who might be interested supporting this type of program in the future, as this could be a training for future support. 

Date: February 14, 2026

Shift Time: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

9:00 AM - 10:00 - set up & orientation10:00 AM - 12:00 PM - program run time12:00 PM - 1:00 PM - clean-up & close the site (NOTE: Mel will be there for the program, so you will not be alone and have support)

Program Run Time (when the public is there): 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Project Name for Submitting Hours: Educational Activity

Volunteer Responsibilities:

1 volunteer will help with monitoring the Willow Springs gate as participants enter and then return to the main house once everyone has arrived.1 volunteer will assist with checking in attendees and being a friendly face, as well as orienting attendees (telling them where the restroom is, etc.). Volunteers are welcome to participate once the session is over, though we need at least one volunteer to stay until the end and assist with clean-up/take-down

Not sure, but interested? Reach out to Mel & Kat: msarmento@openspaceauthority.org, khill@openspaceauthority.org


Program: Preserve Stewards

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Feb 14, 2026

Zip Code: 95037

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: 1/31/2026 Land Stewards: Native Seeding at Máyyan 'Ooyákma

Join us to re-seed native grasslands at the staging area of Máyyan 'Ooyákma! We will be continuing our work to restore native grasses and wildflowers in the staging area to reduce the spread of invasive species to ecologically sensitive areas of the preserve. 

We provide clean gloves, tools, and project-related supplies for the day, as well as training for planting seed.  We require that volunteers wear close-toed shoes, long sleeved and pants, as well as bring their own sun-protection, snacks and water. If you have gloves from previous events then please bring them, otherwise new gloves will be provided on-site. Work will involve stooping, kneeling, walking on uneven/rocky terrain and using hand tools.

Please note that youth (14 and older) are allowed to participate with the supervision and accompaniment of an adult guardian. If you plan to bring a guest (youth or adult) please have them create a volunteer portal account, submit release of liability (and parental permission form, if they are a youth) and sign up for the opportunity through the portal.

Please contact Gavin (gcomstock@openspaceauthority.org) if you have any questions about this Land Stewards event.

Program: Land Stewards

Join us to re-seed native grasslands at the staging area of Máyyan 'Ooyákma! We will be continuing our work to restore native grasses and wildflowers in the staging area to reduce the spread of invasive species to ecologically sensitive areas of the preserve. 

We provide clean gloves, tools, and project-related supplies for the day, as well as training for planting seed.  We require that volunteers wear close-toed shoes, long sleeved and pants, as well as bring their own sun-protection, snacks and water. If you have gloves from previous events then please bring them, otherwise new gloves will be provided on-site. Work will involve stooping, kneeling, walking on uneven/rocky terrain and using hand tools.

Please note that youth (14 and older) are allowed to participate with the supervision and accompaniment of an adult guardian. If you plan to bring a guest (youth or adult) please have them create a volunteer portal account, submit release of liability (and parental permission form, if they are a youth) and sign up for the opportunity through the portal.

Please contact Gavin (gcomstock@openspaceauthority.org) if you have any questions about this Land Stewards event.

Program: Land Stewards

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Jan 31, 2026

Zip Code: 95037

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Trail Masters, 1/15/26 at Diablo Foothills: Restoration site maintenance

TM Volunteer request for up to four Trail Master volunteers to help with this day of field work. We will spend time in the restoration site located here, continuing efforts from previous years at this Cal Trans Restoration site.

For first time visitors to this preserve, the drive time is approximately 30 to 40 minutes on rural roads, plan accordingly so you can drive safely and arrive on time. 


9:00 a.m. meetup at 6280 Canada Rd. Gilroy, CA 95020. The main gate near to the cattle corral and large burnt Eucalyptus trees. Look for the Authority vehicles.

Program: Trail Masters

TM Volunteer request for up to four Trail Master volunteers to help with this day of field work. We will spend time in the restoration site located here, continuing efforts from previous years at this Cal Trans Restoration site.

For first time visitors to this preserve, the drive time is approximately 30 to 40 minutes on rural roads, plan accordingly so you can drive safely and arrive on time. 


9:00 a.m. meetup at 6280 Canada Rd. Gilroy, CA 95020. The main gate near to the cattle corral and large burnt Eucalyptus trees. Look for the Authority vehicles.

Program: Trail Masters

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Jan 15, 2026

Zip Code: 95020

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Trail Masters, 1/17/26 at Diablo Foothills: Restoration site maintenance

TM Volunteer request for up to eight Trail Master volunteers to help with this day of field work. We will spend time in the restoration site located here, continuing efforts from previous years at this Cal Trans Restoration site.

For first time visitors to this preserve, the drive time is approximately 30 to 40 minutes on rural roads, plan accordingly so you can drive safely and arrive on time. 


9:00 a.m. meetup at 6280 Canada Rd. Gilroy, CA 95020. The main gate near to the cattle corral and large burnt Eucalyptus trees. Look for the Authority vehicles.

Program: Trail Masters

TM Volunteer request for up to eight Trail Master volunteers to help with this day of field work. We will spend time in the restoration site located here, continuing efforts from previous years at this Cal Trans Restoration site.

For first time visitors to this preserve, the drive time is approximately 30 to 40 minutes on rural roads, plan accordingly so you can drive safely and arrive on time. 


9:00 a.m. meetup at 6280 Canada Rd. Gilroy, CA 95020. The main gate near to the cattle corral and large burnt Eucalyptus trees. Look for the Authority vehicles.

Program: Trail Masters

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Jan 17, 2026

Zip Code: 95020

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Trail Masters, 1/21/26, Trail work at Sierra Vista OSP

TM Volunteer support request for up to four TM Volunteers on this day of tread work in the Sierra Vista OSP.

Please arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. and park in the main staging area. TM Volunteers will depart from there with staff for the day. Staff lead will provide instruction and support on where our efforts are directed.

Volunteer Trail Masters should bring all PPE.

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

Please arrive prepared for wet conditions, rain will not necessarily cancel this event. 

Program: Trail Masters

TM Volunteer support request for up to four TM Volunteers on this day of tread work in the Sierra Vista OSP.

Please arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. and park in the main staging area. TM Volunteers will depart from there with staff for the day. Staff lead will provide instruction and support on where our efforts are directed.

Volunteer Trail Masters should bring all PPE.

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

Please arrive prepared for wet conditions, rain will not necessarily cancel this event. 

Program: Trail Masters

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Jan 21, 2026

Zip Code: 95132

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Trail Masters, 1/22/26, Trail work at Sierra Vista OSP

TM Volunteer support request for up to four TM Volunteers on this day of tread work in the Sierra Vista OSP.

Please arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. and park in the main staging area. TM Volunteers will depart from there with staff for the day. Staff lead will provide instruction and support on where our efforts are directed.

Volunteer Trail Masters should bring all PPE.

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

Please arrive prepared for wet conditions, rain will not necessarily cancel this event. 

Program: Trail Masters

TM Volunteer support request for up to four TM Volunteers on this day of tread work in the Sierra Vista OSP.

Please arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. and park in the main staging area. TM Volunteers will depart from there with staff for the day. Staff lead will provide instruction and support on where our efforts are directed.

Volunteer Trail Masters should bring all PPE.

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

Please arrive prepared for wet conditions, rain will not necessarily cancel this event. 

Program: Trail Masters

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Jan 22, 2026

Zip Code: 95132

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Trail Master Trainees, 1/24/26, Trail work at Sierra Vista OSP

TM Volunteer support request for up to four TM Volunteer Trainees on this day of tread work in the Sierra Vista OSP. 

Please arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. and park in the main staging area. TM Volunteers will depart from there with staff for the day. Staff lead will provide instruction and support on where our efforts are directed.

Volunteer Trail Master Trainees should bring all PPE.

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

Please arrive prepared for wet conditions, rain will not necessarily cancel this event. 

Program: Trail Masters

TM Volunteer support request for up to four TM Volunteer Trainees on this day of tread work in the Sierra Vista OSP. 

Please arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. and park in the main staging area. TM Volunteers will depart from there with staff for the day. Staff lead will provide instruction and support on where our efforts are directed.

Volunteer Trail Master Trainees should bring all PPE.

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

Please arrive prepared for wet conditions, rain will not necessarily cancel this event. 

Program: Trail Masters

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Jan 24, 2026

Zip Code: 95132

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Trail Masters, 1/29/26, Trail work at Sierra Vista OSP

TM Volunteer support request for up to four TM Volunteers on this day of tread work in the Sierra Vista OSP.

Please arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. and park in the main staging area. TM Volunteers will depart from there with staff for the day. Staff lead will provide instruction and support on where our efforts are directed.

Volunteer Trail Masters should bring all PPE.

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

Please arrive prepared for wet conditions, rain will not necessarily cancel this event. 

Program: Trail Masters

TM Volunteer support request for up to four TM Volunteers on this day of tread work in the Sierra Vista OSP.

Please arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. and park in the main staging area. TM Volunteers will depart from there with staff for the day. Staff lead will provide instruction and support on where our efforts are directed.

Volunteer Trail Masters should bring all PPE.

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

Please arrive prepared for wet conditions, rain will not necessarily cancel this event. 

Program: Trail Masters

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Jan 29, 2026

Zip Code: 95132

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Trail Masters, 1/31/26, Tilton Ranch Path Creation

Trail Master support request for up to 8 Trail Master Volunteers this day of walking trail creation at the Tilton Ranch Complex. Volunteers will meet staff at Tilton Ranch at 9am and take on the tasks outlined on site. Power tools and hand tools are in play. 

Parking is available on site behind the main Tilton House. Directions for access will be provided close to the event based on existing weather conditions. Registered volunteers will receive an email with instructions for arrival.

Please pack all provided PPE, water and calories sufficient for safe participation. 


Program: Trail Masters

Trail Master support request for up to 8 Trail Master Volunteers this day of walking trail creation at the Tilton Ranch Complex. Volunteers will meet staff at Tilton Ranch at 9am and take on the tasks outlined on site. Power tools and hand tools are in play. 

Parking is available on site behind the main Tilton House. Directions for access will be provided close to the event based on existing weather conditions. Registered volunteers will receive an email with instructions for arrival.

Please pack all provided PPE, water and calories sufficient for safe participation. 


Program: Trail Masters

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Jan 31, 2026

Zip Code: 95137

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: 1/17/2026 - Hike Sweeps Needed! Owl Prowl at Alum Rock Park

We are seeking 2 preserve stewards to support our Owl Prowl Program at Alum Rock Park as hike sweeps!

Sweeps would be tasked with helping the group stay together on the trail and assisting with other needed hike support.

Quick Details

Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026Shift Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PMNote: it can take 15-20 minutes to drive to the meeting location from the entrance; please plan accordingly.Program run time (when the public is there): 4:30 PM - 6:30 PMLocation: Alum Rock Park (specific meeting location details will be sent the week before the program)

Program Description for the Public

Join Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority's knowledgeable docents and staff as we step onto the trail after dark and explore the unique nighttime world of owls. Together we'll learn how these remarkable hunters survive in low light, communicate with mates, and care for their young. We'll slow down, listen closely, and see what the park reveals. With luck (and quiet footsteps), we may even hear or spot owls going about their nightly routine.     So... hooooo will join us?

Program: Preserve Stewards

We are seeking 2 preserve stewards to support our Owl Prowl Program at Alum Rock Park as hike sweeps!

Sweeps would be tasked with helping the group stay together on the trail and assisting with other needed hike support.

Quick Details

Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026Shift Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PMNote: it can take 15-20 minutes to drive to the meeting location from the entrance; please plan accordingly.Program run time (when the public is there): 4:30 PM - 6:30 PMLocation: Alum Rock Park (specific meeting location details will be sent the week before the program)

Program Description for the Public

Join Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority's knowledgeable docents and staff as we step onto the trail after dark and explore the unique nighttime world of owls. Together we'll learn how these remarkable hunters survive in low light, communicate with mates, and care for their young. We'll slow down, listen closely, and see what the park reveals. With luck (and quiet footsteps), we may even hear or spot owls going about their nightly routine.     So... hooooo will join us?

Program: Preserve Stewards

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Jan 17, 2026

Zip Code: 95127

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: 1/17/2026 - Docents Needed! Owl Prowl at Alum Rock Park

We are seeking 3 docents to support our Owl Prowl Program at Alum Rock Park!

Ideally, we are seeking docents who are versed in owls and/or nighttime wildlife who are able to support.

Quick Details

Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026Shift Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PMNote: it can take 15-20 minutes to drive to the meeting location from the entrance; please plan accordingly.Program run time (when the public is there): 4:30 PM - 6:30 PMLocation: Alum Rock Park (specific meeting location details will be sent the week before the program)

Program Description for the Public

Join Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority's knowledgeable docents and staff as we step onto the trail after dark and explore the unique nighttime world of owls. Together we'll learn how these remarkable hunters survive in low light, communicate with mates, and care for their young. We'll slow down, listen closely, and see what the park reveals. With luck (and quiet footsteps), we may even hear or spot owls going about their nightly routine.     So... hooooo will join us?

Program: Interpretive Docents

We are seeking 3 docents to support our Owl Prowl Program at Alum Rock Park!

Ideally, we are seeking docents who are versed in owls and/or nighttime wildlife who are able to support.

Quick Details

Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026Shift Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PMNote: it can take 15-20 minutes to drive to the meeting location from the entrance; please plan accordingly.Program run time (when the public is there): 4:30 PM - 6:30 PMLocation: Alum Rock Park (specific meeting location details will be sent the week before the program)

Program Description for the Public

Join Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority's knowledgeable docents and staff as we step onto the trail after dark and explore the unique nighttime world of owls. Together we'll learn how these remarkable hunters survive in low light, communicate with mates, and care for their young. We'll slow down, listen closely, and see what the park reveals. With luck (and quiet footsteps), we may even hear or spot owls going about their nightly routine.     So... hooooo will join us?

Program: Interpretive Docents

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Jan 17, 2026

Zip Code: 95127

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Jan 10. AND Feb. 22 2026 - Interpretive Host Training

This is our introductory training for new volunteers. Our winter 2026 edition of Interpretive Host Training features two parts. The January 10 session will cover agency mission and vision, roles and duties and using interpretive techniques for public facing volunteer roles. In addition, the second part on February 22 will cover all Máyyan 'Ooyákma related operations for a successful spring.

Join VET's staff on January 10 AND Feb 22 2026 to learn all about how to use interpretive techniques for engaging our preserve audiences! We want all volunteers to be well-versed in our mission, values and resources so please take this opportunity to come learn with us!


If you are a veteran volunteer and have taken Interpretive Host Training before please sign up for the Feb 22 Spring Refesher opportunity using this opportunity link.

If you are a new volunteer, please sign up before January 8  to ensure staff have time to prepare you a name-tag, volunteer shirt and send out directions, if you can. Please email khill@openspaceauthority.org directly if you are trying to sign up after January 8.

 

Program: Preserve Stewards

This is our introductory training for new volunteers. Our winter 2026 edition of Interpretive Host Training features two parts. The January 10 session will cover agency mission and vision, roles and duties and using interpretive techniques for public facing volunteer roles. In addition, the second part on February 22 will cover all Máyyan 'Ooyákma related operations for a successful spring.

Join VET's staff on January 10 AND Feb 22 2026 to learn all about how to use interpretive techniques for engaging our preserve audiences! We want all volunteers to be well-versed in our mission, values and resources so please take this opportunity to come learn with us!


If you are a veteran volunteer and have taken Interpretive Host Training before please sign up for the Feb 22 Spring Refesher opportunity using this opportunity link.

If you are a new volunteer, please sign up before January 8  to ensure staff have time to prepare you a name-tag, volunteer shirt and send out directions, if you can. Please email khill@openspaceauthority.org directly if you are trying to sign up after January 8.

 

Program: Preserve Stewards

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 95037

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: February 22, 2026, Máyyan 'Ooyákma Refresher: Operations and Survey 123 Training

This one day training is for veteran volunteers. Any veteran volunteers wanting to serve at Máyyan 'Ooyákma - Coyote Ridge should register for this training. Join us on February 22 to learn and review operations and roles at Máyyan 'Ooyákma.  This training is a refresher course in the use of Survey1-2-3.  Volunteers (both Preserve Steward and Docent) help us with preserve patrols and data collection at Máyyan 'Ooyákma Coyote Ridge each spring season.

We will demonstrate the set up of the welcome table for spring, goals and functions of preserve patrols, on site storage at the preserve and how to use the Survey 1-2-3 app on Authority tablets and phones so you can help us gather information about visitors behavior for our resource management department.

Program: Preserve Stewards

This one day training is for veteran volunteers. Any veteran volunteers wanting to serve at Máyyan 'Ooyákma - Coyote Ridge should register for this training. Join us on February 22 to learn and review operations and roles at Máyyan 'Ooyákma.  This training is a refresher course in the use of Survey1-2-3.  Volunteers (both Preserve Steward and Docent) help us with preserve patrols and data collection at Máyyan 'Ooyákma Coyote Ridge each spring season.

We will demonstrate the set up of the welcome table for spring, goals and functions of preserve patrols, on site storage at the preserve and how to use the Survey 1-2-3 app on Authority tablets and phones so you can help us gather information about visitors behavior for our resource management department.

Program: Preserve Stewards

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 95037

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: June, July, and/or August 2026 - PRESERVE STEWARDS NEEDED - Binocular Stargazing

We are looking for 3 volunteers to help with Binocular Stargazing events at Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve June, July, and/or August from 9:00pm - 11:30pm.

Dates (pick one or all!):

June 6, 2026July 18, 2026August 8, 2026

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

Program: Preserve Stewards

We are looking for 3 volunteers to help with Binocular Stargazing events at Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve June, July, and/or August from 9:00pm - 11:30pm.

Dates (pick one or all!):

June 6, 2026July 18, 2026August 8, 2026

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

Program: Preserve Stewards

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 95037

Allow Groups: No