Bear Patrol - Asheville Area

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Blue Ridge Parkway Bear Patrol Volunteer Job Description

The primary purpose of the Parkway’s Volunteer Bear Patrol is to educate visitors and protect

resources, particularly the American Black Bear.

Major Duties:

1. Educate visitors about Parkway regulations relating to bears & proper etiquette to follow to avoid bear/human conflicts.

2. Educate visitors about the National Park Mission including how & why it is important to protect Parkway resources.

3. Serve as an extension of the Parkway staff making initial contact with visitors.

4. Observe & report situations of concern to the National Park Staff.

5. Set up & staff an information/education table.

6. Rove trails & make informal educational contacts with visitors.

The Bear Patrol is NOT:

1. To enforce policy and regulations

2. To actively manage bears (no moving bears, no hazing bears, etc...)

Knowledge and Skills Required:

• Ability to contact visitors resulting in positive outcomes and interactions

• Ability to de-escalate conflict to gain compliance with Parkway regulations and policies

• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.

• Ability to interact well with the public and practice safety in all aspects of the job.

• Ability to work independently with little or no direct supervision.

• Ability to lift and carry objects up to 20 pounds.

• Ability to work outside in various weather conditions

• Ability to walk on uneven terrain

Minimum Time Commitment

• Volunteer for at least two 3 hour shifts per month

Training Requirement

• Attend Mandatory Training Session before Volunteer Service on the Bear Patrol can begin (trainings are held once every three months on average with next training session likely to occur in late July)

Start Date - 2024-06-01

End Date - 2024-12-31

Activities include: Conservation Education;Fish/Wildlife;Visitor Information