Applications open for NH Coverts Project training

The 2017 NH Coverts Project volunteers

Did you resolve to get outside more in 2018? Do you want to make a difference by promoting wildlife conservation and forest stewardship in New Hampshire? If so, start the new year off by applying for the 2018 NH Coverts Project volunteer training workshop.

What’s a covert (pronounced “cover” with a “t”)? It’s a thicket that provides shelter for wildlife. The NH Coverts Project trains volunteers to enhance, restore, and conserve native wildlife habitats in the state through conservation, stewardship and outreach programs. The program began in 1995 and has trained more than 500 volunteers in the last 23 years.

Each year, NH Coverts Project’s volunteer training workshop brings together 25 conservation-minded individuals for a four-day workshop led by natural resource professionals. Volunteers learn about wildlife and forest ecology, habitat management, land conservation and effective outreach strategies. There is a $50 registration fee. However, program sponsors fund all lodging, food and other expenses. In exchange for the training, participants commit to volunteering for at least 40 hours during the coming year and motivating others to become stewards of New Hampshire’s wildlife and forest resources.

Once volunteers complete their training, they become members of a knowledgeable statewide network connected through newsletters, field trips, workshops and more. Coverts volunteers give their time in a variety of ways. Some lead field walks or organize volunteer work days, while others serve on town boards or manage their own property for wildlife habitat. Volunteers come from many backgrounds and professions, but are unified by their desire to help the state’s wildlife and forests.

“Since attending the Coverts training, I feel more comfortable talking to people about land management and different wildlife species,” says Grafton County resident Rebecca Steeves. “As a science teacher, I am able to pass on to my students more accurate and New Hampshire-relevant information. As a member of my local conservation commission, I can better understand and work with landowners in management of private and public land in my area.”

The NH Coverts Project is sponsored by UNH Cooperative Extension and New Hampshire Fish & Game. The program also receives support from the New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands.

To apply for this year’s NH Coverts Project training, download and complete the 2018 NH Coverts Project Application. The deadline for receiving applications is March 1, 2018. For more information, visit nhcoverts.org or contact project coordinator Haley Andreozzi at haley.andreozzi@unh.edu or 603-862-5327.

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