Dept. of Game, Fish and Parks
For immediate release: Wednesday, October 24, 2001
For more information, contact Amy Urban, 773-4235

APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE FOR 2002 STATE PARK VOLUNTEER POSITIONS

PIERRE – Anyone who enjoys the outdoors may want to consider joining several others in the Volunteer In Parks (V.I.P) program. 

Volunteer opportunities exist in many of South Dakota’s state parks and recreation areas. "With the anticipated transfer of several recreation areas, formerly managed by the Corps of Engineers, there are new volunteer positions available in parks along the Missouri River," said Lynn Spomer, state parks volunteer coordinator.

According to Spomer, volunteers are being sought for campground hosts, as well as for maintenance, programming, visitor center staff, office staff and special projects. Most of these positions are open April through October.

Volunteers may work full time or just a few hours, all spent in beautiful park surroundings. Campground hosts who work at least 24 hours a week for a minimum of 30 days can camp for free in the park during the weeks of their service. At some parks, where space is available, other volunteers may also camp for free during the duration of their service. Volunteers who wish to commute from their home to the park may work the number of hours they wish. 

Park visitors will enjoy and benefit from the improved and expanded services provided through the V.I.P. program.

For more information on South Dakota state park volunteer opportunities, contact Lynn Spomer at the Division of Parks and Recreation, 523 E. Capitol, Pierre, S.D. 57501-3182, call (605) 773-3930 or e-mail Lynn.Spomer@state.sd.us

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