The California Department of Fish and Wildlife oversees more than 800,000 acres of wildlife areas and ecological reserves—habitat that includes wetlands, riparian forests, oak woodlands, estuaries and grasslands. All types of volunteers are needed—from those who enjoy getting their boots muddy to those who like to work indoors but want the view of a lifetime. Volunteers serve and help protect the native habitat, rare plants and animals that thrive on these open areas. California's reputation as the wildlife state formed because the state carries a greater diversity of plant and animal species than anywhere in North America. Volunteers serve a critical role in keeping the open lands ready for visits from both wildlife and human visitors.

See Wildlife Areas/ Ecological Reserves Opportunities