Yoho National Park of Canada

Wildlife Program

BLACK BEAR - Ursus americanus
© Parks Canada / BNP Collection

The Lake Louise, Yoho and Kootenay field unit has a small number of opportunities each year for adult volunteers wishing to participate in research, monitoring, and communication activities of the wildlife program. These opportunities do not duplicate the regular work duties of park staff, but extend the wildlife program through citizen monitoring, assistance to park researchers, and public outreach communications. Volunteer assignments are usually based either at Radium Hot Springs in Kootenay National Park, or near the community of Field in Yoho National Park. Bunkhouse accommodation may be available, however volunteers are responsible for their own transportation costs to the park, and for meals and other personal expenses.

Volunteer assignments may take place in Yoho or Kootenay National Parks, or in the Lake Louise district of adjacent Banff National Park. These assignments generally are a full-time commitment for a minimum of two months. Volunteers will be able to work closely with park staff, experience the spectacular outdoor setting of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, and develop a unique appreciation for the wildlife of these world-renowned national parks.

Recommended qualifications for volunteers include the following:

• formal training in the biological sciences or a closely related discipline
• experience/training/aptitude in communication activities
• ability to travel in the outdoors (ie, hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, depending on season)
• map reading, navigation, and GPS skills
• hands-on experience in field activities of wildlife management is an asset

Volunteer assignments usually start three times per year: in September, January, and May, for which applications must be received by June 15th, October 15th, and March 1st respectively.

Please send applications, complete with names, addresses and phone numbers of at least three employment or academic references, to: