Information For New & Returning Volunteers at the Creamer’s Field Migration Station
The Creamer’s Field Migration Station (CFMS) could not operate without a crew of dedicated volunteers. You are the heart and driving force of the station! Thank you to all who have participated over the years.
Volunteers at CFMS learn to open & close mist nets, extract birds from nets, record data, and help with general upkeep of the station. It is a great way to learn more about Interior Alaska’s songbirds and to meet other people interested in birds and conservation.
Youth and teens are welcome to volunteer with an adult mentor. Please read our YOUTH VOLUNTEER INFORMATION or contact Program Director Robert Snowden at ASI.science@aksongbird.org for details.
Interested in volunteering for the first time?
For inquiries about our volunteer program at CFMS, please contact Robert Snowden at ASI.science@aksongbird.org. We plan to hold new volunteer meetings and training at Creamer’s Field in summer 2024; stay tuned for the date and time.
Please read the VOLUNTEER JOB DESCRIPTION. It contains general information, expectations, recommended field gear, scheduling information, and a map. After reviewing this information, please complete a VOLUNTEER APPLICATION and contact ASI. You must contact ASI BEFORE signing up for your first shift.
Returning volunteers:
Please sign up for shifts using the the current season’s Volunteer Calendar (Robert will be sharing the spring 2024 calendar in April!) If you cannot access this calendar, please contact Robert. Remember to be cautious with the calendar! If you ‘click’ on a cell and start typing, you will erase any others that have signed up in that cell.
Resources for Volunteers
Creamer’s Field Migration Station Manual-Coming Soon!
ASI Volunteer Application & Waiver
ASI Volunteer Liability Waiver & Photo Release
Bird List for Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
List of average arrival dates for migratory species to Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
Handbook of Field Methods for Monitoring Landbirds (Pages 7-23 ‘Constant-Effort Mist Nets and Banding’ are particularly helpful.)
Body Grasp Technique: A Rapid Method of Removing Birds from Mist Nets