Share your love of plants with the world!

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Share your love of plants with the world by volunteering for interpretive services at the U.S. National Arboretum, the nation's flagship horticultural institution and a unique green space in the heart of D.C. Over the years, the Arboretum has become an increasingly popular destination for local, out-of-state, and international visitors, who now number half a million annually. Interpretive volunteers can perform a variety of roles, ranging from advising visitors on what to see and do, to leading private tours, accompanying full-moon hikes, and staffing outdoor information stations at our renowned collections, such as the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, National Herb Garden, and Azalea Collection, among others. Incoming volunteers will be located in the Visitor Center lobby on weekends, where they will represent the Arboretum, inform visitors about the Arboretum’s role in environmental horticulture, respond to inquiries, and provide recommendations that help visitors take best advantage of our seasonal offerings. Volunteers will, through additional training and staff interactions, progressively acquire the knowledge and experience to serve in more specialized roles, if they so desire. Initial and ongoing training is provided. There are two shifts each Saturday and Sunday: 8am-12:30pm and 12pm-4:30pm (a half hour overlap to ensure a smooth handoff). No experience is necessary, but volunteers must attend one of the scheduled initial training sessions. For more information and to receive a volunteer application, email USNA.Volunteers@ars.usda.gov.