San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy in Need of Volunteer Docents

Every week Encinitas Patch spotlights one easy way you can give time, energy, or donations to make a difference in our community.

This week, consider volunteering to be a docent for the(SELC).

These guides help people make the most of their hike, pointing out the nuances and history there missed by many. 

The San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy is currently looking for a few good volunteers to serve as nature ambassadors. A comprehensive training program will prepare docents to lead interpretive walks for school and scout groups, as well as for weekend visitors and other community groups. Previous interpretive experience is not required.

“I think we’re all a little nervous at first,” said Elizabeth Venrick, a retired oceanographer who donates her time to the conservancy as a volunteer docent. “Every tour I do I learn something new and exciting. Sometimes I learn from the people on my tour.” 

Her particular tour involves highlighting information about the many species of estuary plant and animal life, but also the history of the area dating back to the last Native American Kumeyaay, who relied upon this lagoon for its vast resources. She can rattle off the Latin names of various species of plant and animal, which impresses the adults, but her favorite audience is the children.

“I get a kick out having a child reach into a bush and rub a Lemonadeberry. They are amazed at the sour flavor. Their smiles tell me I hit the jackpot.” She then proceeds to tell how the Kumeyaay made lemon tea with these plants hundreds of years ago.

All the tools to lead walks will be provided in the eight-week training that begins Oct. 4. The final application deadline is Sept. 16. The program cost is $125 and includes membership in San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy. As a special incentive to enroll early, applications received by September 1 will only cost $110.

The mission of San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy is to protect and restore the resources of San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve, its watershed, and related ecosystems for the benefit of current and future generations. This fall SELC kicks off its 25th Anniversary celebration for the upcoming 2012 year.