Volunteer Management in European Parks

Other international programmes

International exchange of volunteers in parks is possible by various other networks, too. Here, you find a selection of some other exchange programmes.

USA: National Park Service (NPS) – International Volunteers in Parks (IVIP)

The U.S. National Park Service is recruiting international volunteers with a passion for the protection of natural and cultural resources in the U.S. and in their home countries. NPS international volunteers have many opportunities to participate in challenging training at a variety of U.S. national parks. Volunteers do not receive payment, but get the benefit of training with well-respected staff of the National Park Service. Programs from 1 to 12 months in duration can be arranged.

Created_VIP_Logo_pTypes of training include the following:

  • Search and rescue
  • Natural Resource management
  • Environmental education
  • Wildlife management
  • Historic preservation
  • Invasive species management
  • GPS/GIS mapping
  • Museum management
  • Interpretation (public education)
  • Concessions management
  • Wilderness management

Volunteers benefit by living and training in a unique area of the U.S. as well as gaining knowledge of NPS best practices. Both university students and park and protected area staff and managers who speak English are eligible. All volunteers must have their own funds to pay for all travel and other expenses incurred during the volunteer program. In some cases, the hosting National park may provide housing support. The National Park Service Office of International Affairs manages the program and reviews applications.

For more information, please visit IVIP or contact Linda Bennett: Linda_Bennett@nps.gov

Additionally, read this brochure.

Australia: Parks Forum – International Staff Exchange Programme

Exchanges are one means of broadening an individual’s experience and the organisation’s overall capability. Many park agencies have long recognised the benefits of exchange programmes – sharing skills, ideas, best practice and developing their staff.
International staff exchange is a programme developed by Parks Forum and supported by the Department of Conservation, New Zealand, and the EUROPARC Federation (our delivery partner in Europe). It is an exchange of staff between parks agencies, and ultimately an exchange of skills, knowledge and best practice. Exchanges may include:

  • Study tours
  • Job shadowing
  • Back filling staff positions (in emergency situations)
  • Accelerated learning exchanges
  • Seasonal exchanges
  • Management Exchanges
  • Direct job swaps
  • Project based exchanges

The duration of an exchange may vary from 3, 6, or 12+ months. Detailed information about the international park staff exchange you find here – including the FAQ.

For information on the Park Volunteer Network, contact Ingrid Sieler: Ingrid.sieler@bigpond.com

Please note, that EUROPARC has no influence on the linked websites. Therefore, we dissociate ourselves from the linked websites contents.