Oatland Wildlife Leaders (OWLs)

Join Oatland's team and gain valuable volunteer experience while developing a deeper understanding of wildlife and environmental conservation. The Oatland Wildlife Leadership Program is a year-round teen program that meets twice a month during the school year with additional opportunities on select Saturdays and during summer months.

OWL Opportunities:

· Assist with educational events and programs.

· Educate visitors about wildlife and environmental conservation.

· Engage and inspire guests through informal interpretation and presentations.

· Learn about career pathways in the world of environmental science.

· Participate in teambuilding, trainings and experiential learning.

· Take action for wildlife through conservation projects and studies.

OWL Requirements:

· Must be a high school student and at least 14 years old.

· Support Oatland Island Wildlife Center and its mission.

· Submit an application.

· Complete an interview in May.

· Attend program Orientation and all Mandatory Trainings.

· Commit to the year (August to July).

· Complete a minimum of 30 hours of volunteer service at Oatland (does NOT include regular meetings) Hours can be earned by assisting with monthly Saturday events, volunteering at festivals, monitoring the barnyard on weekends, and assisting with special projects. OWLs must be present at least one weekend day each month during the school year.

SPACE IS VERY LIMITED IN THIS PROGRAM. APPLICATION FOR 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR CLOSES APRIL 24TH

New OWLs: Oatland Island Wildlife Leaders (OWLs) 2026-2027 Application (MUST BE COMPLETED BY STUDENT) – Fill out form

Returning OWLs: RETURNING OWLs Application 2026-2027 – Fill out form

2026-2027 OWL meeting monthly themes and important events

September: Monarch Migration

October: Halloween Hike

November/December: Enrichment

January/February: Birds

March: Literacy and Interpretation

April: FrogWatch

May: Fairy and Gnome