Join our two-day training to become a docent with LandPaths at Rancho Mark West in the Mayacamas Mountains 20 minutes outside of downtown Santa Rosa!

This preserve is currently only open through guided outings and volunteer stewardship days. Docents are critical to increasing access to Rancho Mark West preserve through creative and inspiring outings on the land, and you'll get to explore the preserve on your own as an added perk!  

• tips and tricks for leading a successful outing.
• familiarity and comfort with the plants, animals, trees, and creeks that add up to the incredible beauty of Rancho Mark West. 
• the opportunitiy to design your own Outings throughout the year.

• The satisfaction of opening up access to a special open space in Sonoma County. 
• Special access to the preserve after you lead your first docent outing. 
• An accumulation of volunteer hours that can get you hats, beanies, t-shirts, and invites to special volunteer celebrations with LandPaths. 

1. Register for the training
2. Attend two onsite training sessions (April 1 and 2)
3. Complete the Agreement Form and Liability Waiver 
4. Apprentice on at least one staff led Outing at the preserve
5. Over the course of the year, attend 4 enrichment opportunities (hikes, workshops, courses, etc.) 

• walk or hike at least 5 miles on moderately hilly terrain.
• present to small groups comfortably. 

• 18 years or older
• 1^st aid/CPR certified

• Participate in the Docent Program for at least one year
• Lead at least 4 guided Outings at Rancho Mark West each year
• Provide a short field report after your outing. 
• Each outing takes about 4 hours. 

• Participation in the first two orientation trainings is free of charge.
• Participation in subsequent enrichment trainings may have a cost or suggested donation of approximately $10-$40. Scholarships are available.
• 1st Aid/CPR training will be paid for by the volunteer (around $40) but we can help guide you to where these can be completed.