Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge

by John Benson
(Sumner, MO )

Swan Lake NWR Visitor Center

Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a refuge for waterfowl. Established in 1937, it provides a place for ducks, geese, and other waterfowl species to nest, rest, and feed. In the fall, the peak migration of ducks exceeds 100,000 birds. In the winter, over 100 bald eagles are on the refuge. It is also a large wintering area for the eastern prairie population of Canada geese and Mississippi flyway duck populations.

The refuge is used by the public for wildlife observation, environmental education, hiking, and hunting and fishing.

Looking for work campers to assist with operating the Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Sumner, MO. This is a part-time position of 10-12 hours per week each for a couple or 20-25 hour per week for a single in exchange for full camper hooks. The camper sites are 20’x40’ and are equipped with water/electrical (both 50A&30A) and sewer hookups.

As a workamper at Swan Lake NWR, you'll have an excellent opportunity with the best of two worlds. One is the beautiful surroundings of the refuge with its bountiful wildlife and plant habitats. The second is the ability to interact with visitors and local communities.

Your duties will include running the Visitor Center on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Duties include greeting visitors, answering questions about the refuge, operating a small museum, and some light office work. You will also be responsible for general janitorial and cleaning services (i.e. vacuuming the carpet, sweeping off the main sidewalk entrance, cleaning and re-supplying the restrooms) of the Visitor Center’s offices and restrooms on those days. On occasions you will assist with special social events held on the refuge.

Other potential work opportunities are available for those who have talents in the following areas: carpentry, mechanical/electrical maintenance, lawn maintenance, and assisting with wildlife surveys.

We have two RV spots available and are looking for workers from March 1 through October 31, 2010.

Interested parties should contact Steve Whitson or John Benson at the address below.

Swan Lake NWR
16194 Swan Lake Ave
Sumner, MO 64681
Phone: 660-856-3323
FAX: 660-856-3687
Email: steve_whitson@fws.gov
Email: john_benson@fws.gov