Volunteer Opportunities SBWA offers a wide variety of volunteer opportunities, both indoor and outdoor. Volunteers are needed to help with research, office work, writing, photography and filming, education, fundraising, and field work. Currently, there is a call for volunteers for the following programs and acitivities.

Fieldwork and Outdoor Programs
Community Programs
SBWA Fundraisers
SBWA Headquarters
Educational Activities

Check our calendar for scheduled events and workshops.

Fieldwork and Outdoor Programs

Stream Monitoring - Learn how to monitor the South Branch and its tributaries using benthic macro to determine the health of the water. Protect surface water quality by becoming a member of a team which monitors the South Branch Raritan River and its tributaries.

• Become a "Water Steward"
• Attend one day training workshop in May
• Monitor waterways (about one day) during the last two weeks in June

Waterways Stewardship Project with Schools - Go out in the field with the schools to a site selected on a stream, and assist students with conducting biological monitoring in streams.

• Work with students; be outdoors conducting biological monitoring
• Inventory land use and land cover around site
• During school year September-November and March-June

Community Programs

Stream Clean-ups - Shoreline Clean-up along South Branch Raritan River and its tributaries each Spring and Fall.

• Organize and schedule clean up. Help identify clean -up sites
• Help assemble and deliver supplies
• Assist with office work: mailings, phone calling, press releases

Community Well Water Testing Program - Municipalities offer well testing to residents at reduced rates. SBWA coordinates the program.

• Help count and label test bottles in preparation of well testing day
• Provide assistance in office on collection day

SBWA Fundraisers

Several SBWA fundraisers are held per year. This is a great way to learn about the organization and to help raise money for SBWA.

"Ride for the River" Motorcycle Poker Run - A one-day event held in mid-May. Help needed in following areas:

• Help to set up in the morning at Spruce Run
• Help to clean up in the morning after registration at Spruce Run
• Help to set up for afternoon ending destination and picnic, usually at a local park
• Assist with publicity and posting flyers
• Help riders on the day of the event

SBWA Headquarters

The SBWA office is located at the Lechner House in the Echo Hill Environmental Center, Flemington, NJ.

On the grounds - SBWA has a small greenhouse attached to the office and birdfeeders around.

• Maintain bird feeders
• Create and maintain outside garden.

Administrative Work - SBWA Newsletter, The Current, is published biannually.

• Write articles related to our mission
• Help with layout and editing. (MS Publisher)
• Help with bulk mailing
• Take photographs at events

Computer Work - Training can be provided as needed.

• Update files for membership, water samples, and library books.
• Help with data entry using MS Access software.
• Help with updating our web site.

General Office

• Provide help answering phones during business hours (Monday-Friday, from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm), especially afternoons and on Thursdays
• Filing
• Assist with bulk mailings

Educational Activities

SBWA Events Representative

• Set-up and assist in explaining displays at events e.g., Earth Day, School Science Fairs, etc.
• Take photos at events

Environmental Issues Watch Program - A program where concerned individuals keep the Association updated on current local environmental concerns. (May be done at home.)

• Research and download news articles or call us about activities related to environmental issues in our Watershed municipalities. Topics might include non-point source pollution, effects of pollution, alternative pest controls, alternative agriculture, hazardous material spills, stream erosion, etc.
• Research local/regional newspapers, national magazines, government (DEP, EPA, DOT, Municipal) planning documents, directives, policies, etc., and publications of other environmental organizations.

Treasures of the South Branch

• Help with promotion
• Identify and solicit sponsors and exhibitors
• Get raffle prizes
• On-site help during event

Internship Program - Internships are tailored to the interests of the individual and the needs of the organization.

• Interested parties can send a cover letter and resume to SBWA office.