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Opportunity Details

Property Steward - Farandnear

Opportunity Overview:
Farandnear was the summer home of the Banks family for several generations, with Arthur Banks — an accomplished political scientist and professor — its most recent resident. Banks’s grandfather, Charles Goodspeed, named the property because, at 50 miles from his home in Wollaston, it was “far” enough to require a two-day journey by horse to reach, but “near” enough to be a vacation home. The park-like grounds at Farandnear are perfect for playing, picnicking, relaxing, and more.

As a Property Steward, you’ll have the opportunity to support and work alongside staff to help keep Farandnear beautiful for all to enjoy! Our staff are friendly, knowledgeable, communicative, fun and always willing to share their expertise.

Reports to: Stewardship Manager

Responsibilities (may include but are not limited to the following):
  • Walk the trails regularly, talk to visitors about trails and features of the property, and keep a record of anything notable (fallen trees, trail erosion, visitor encounters, wildlife, etc.).
  • Remove litter, small branches, and other debris from the trails
  • Trim overgrowth of vegetation from encroaching onto trails, as needed
  • Report to the Stewardship team, including emailing completed trail reports on a regular basis (at least twice per month)
  • Record location of any invasive plants observed
  • Be comfortable interacting with visitors and answering questions whenever possible
  • Promote upcoming events and programs
  • Post program info and stock trailhead kiosks with maps, flyers, etc.
  • Property Stewards may assist with trail projects or special events
  • Adhere to The Trustees safety and COVID-19 protocols
  • Log volunteer hours weekly
Qualifications:
  • Have reliable transportation to the property
  • An interest in conservation
  • Ability to complete physically vigorous work
  • Enjoy interacting with the public
  • Ability to read trail maps
  • Ability to work independently and communicate effectively
  • Observance of Trustees safety and COVID protocols 
  • Outdoor experience: hiking, biking, horseback riding, snowshoeing a plus
  • Trail maintenance experience a plus
Time Commitment:
Minimum of 1-2 hours, every other week. Six-month commitment required. This is a year-round position. Projects may be limited during the winter months.

For more information
Contact the Volunteer Services Team at volunteer@thetrustees.org

To explore other volunteer opportunities, visit our volunteer page at http://volunteer.thetrustees.org/
 
More about The Trustees
Founded by landscape architect Charles Eliot in 1891, The Trustees has, for more than 125 years, been a catalyst for important ideas, endeavors, and progress in Massachusetts. As a steward of distinctive and dynamic places of both historic and cultural value, The Trustees is the nation’s first preservation and conservation organization, and its landscapes and landmarks continue to inspire discussion, innovation, and action today as they did in the past. We are a nonprofit, supported by members, friends and donors and our 116 sites are destinations for residents, members, and visitors alike, welcoming millions of guests annually. www.thetrustees.org.
 
Inclusive Spaces for All
We are committed to providing a welcoming environment for all. Together, alongside our partners and volunteers we are creating inclusive spaces of community for people of all backgrounds to enjoy and preserving these open spaces for everyone, forever. We are committed to inclusion across race, gender, age, religion, identity, ability, and experience.
 
The Trustees is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal employment opportunity for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, age, military service, application for military service, veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law. The Trustees makes reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.
 
Covid-19 Volunteer Safety:
The health and safety of Trustees’ volunteers, staff and visitors is our top priority.
  • If you are not feeling well, please stay home
  • If you have been in contact with someone with Covid-19 or someone displaying symptoms of Covid-19, please stay home
  • For our most current Covid-19 updates, please visit our main Trustees site
Volunteers Needed
S M T W T F S
Stewardship, Civic & Community

Age Minimum (with Adult): 18+, Minimum Age:18+

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Express Interest

Volunteers needed through 12/31/2026
Shirley, MA, 01464
Volunteer The Trustees

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© 2020 The Trustees of Reservations   --  The Trustees is a 501c3 nonprofit organization  --   Est. 1891

Volunteer Information     |     Volunteer@TheTrustees.org

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