Marine Resources Division - Volunteering Opportunities
Volunteers provide invaluable assistance to SCDNR programs, which work all over the South Carolina coast. Volunteering offers affords the chance to see some of the state's coastal landscapes and experience a slice of life as a SCDNR biologist. Programs need assistance with restoring marine ecosystems, participating in seasonal bird counts, monitoring and removing marine debris, educating the public about ongoing research and much more. Field work often involves the use of research vessels and specialized equipment as part of excursions to work sites. Other opportunities may include working in the garden or providing tours of the lab facility. Please click on the links below for more information about current opportunities and complete the volunteer application to get started!
Volunteers may:
- assist in field sampling which could include the use of research vessels and specialized equipment,
- educate the public about specific research programs and ongoing projects,
- work to restore marine ecosystems,
- participate in seasonal bird counts,
- monitor and remove marine debris
All volunteers will receive the appropriate training and will be provided all the tools necessary to complete the tasks at hand.
To learn more and to get involved please contact Olivia Bueno at 843-953-9809.
- Winter Monarch Butterfly Tagging Project - Monarch butterfly populations are decreasing, with record low winter counts for Mexico in 2014. Many of the monarchs migrate from Mexico to the upper Midwest and southern Canada during the summer and then back to Mexico in the fall. But on the East coast, things are different. Monarchs migrating along the East coast in fall typically do not go to Mexico. Some over-winter along the immediate coast of South Carolina. Scientists want to find out more about this winter range along the Lowcountry coast and need your help!