Mule Care Volunteer - 2025

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Opportunities to join the Mule Care Volunteer program at C&O Canal National Historical Park are now open. Volunteers must be 18 years or older for this program.

Mule Care Volunteers aide park staff in providing routine care to the park’s mule team, which is a popular component of the park’s public programs and engagement.

The park will provide all required training to perform the duties of a Mule Care Volunteer.

Volunteer duties include:

· Feeding

· Grooming

· Maintaining the cleanliness of the mule pen and barn area

· Basic handling of the mules

· Putting halters and leads on mules

· Cleaning and maintaining mule equipment like harnesses, trailer, and water trough

· Managing visitor and vehicle traffic when mules are in public areas

· Setting up and clearing program supplies

· Organizing supplies

· Operating a utility terrain vehicle (UTV)

Volunteers may also assist park staff with answering visitor questions during public 'Meet the Mules’ programs.

Minimum Requirements:

To join the Mule Care Volunteer program, candidates must:

· Be at least 18 years old

· Have reliable transportation

· Wear park-issued volunteer uniform

· Comply with all National Park Service and C&O Canal NHP policies and operating standards

· Successfully complete required, on-site orientation and training including UTV driver training

· Independently track and log volunteer hours

· Professionally represent the National Park Service and C&O Canal NHP while volunteering

· Sign a Volunteer Service Agreement

· Commit at least 9 hours per month, or at least 60 hours for the season (April through mid-November)

· At least one professional or personal reference

Preferred Qualifications:

· Previous or current experience working with equine

· Clear and concise communication skills

· Ability to be flexible and work in a fast-paced environment

· Flexibility to work independently and as part of a team

· Time management

· Ability to remain calm in stressful situations

Start Date - 2025-03-15

End Date - 2025-11-30