Student Volunteer Opportunities on Santa Cruz Island

The western portion of Santa Cruz Island is owned by The Nature Conservancy, and it is managed as a nature reserve.  It is not open to the general public, but Channel Islands Restoration is able to bring volunteers to this part of the island to perform restoration work.  CIR works with school groups on many types of restoration projects on trips that usually last four or five days, depending on your group's requirements.  Participants visit a gorgeous nature reserve reminiscent of California's past, while working to protect rare plant and animal species on the largest of the California Channel Islands.  Housing is provided at the University of California Reserve Station in the island’s Central Valley, and includes full kitchen facilities and rooms with bunk beds. 

Transportation to the island is provided by a professional boat concessionaire and often includes spectacular views of marine mammals and other ocean life. Once on the island, volunteers participate in ongoing habitat restoration projects during the day and are treated to late afternoon/evening drives or hikes to beautiful and interesting island locals.

After dinner activities include time around the camp fire, astronomy shows and educational PowerPoint presentations that highlight the natural and cultural history of the island.   CIR staff have more than a decade of experience working with students on the Channel Islands.  Our staff of highly experienced naturalists are uniquely qualified to introduce young people to the natural wonders of the island.

If you would like more information about this unique service project and educational opportunity please contact us.