Volunteer
Volunteers are an important part of our mission—helping us expand outreach, support field activities, and strengthen connections between agriculture, science, and clean water.
Why Volunteer With GLBI?
Volunteering with GLBI offers the opportunity to:
• Contribute directly to Great Lakes water quality protection
• Support farm-based, voluntary conservation efforts
• Learn about soil health, nutrient management, and biochar applications
• Work alongside farmers, researchers, and conservation professionals
• Make a tangible impact at the intersection of agriculture and environmental stewardship
Whether you bring technical skills or simply a willingness to help, your time and energy matter.
Volunteer Opportunities
GLBI offers a range of volunteer roles depending on interests, skills, and availability:
Field & Project Support
• Assisting with demonstration projects and pilot sites
• Supporting data collection under researcher supervision
• Helping with site logistics and documentation
Outreach & Education
• Assisting with community events and workshops
• Helping develop educational materials
• Supporting farmer and stakeholder outreach efforts
Research & Technical Support
• Literature reviews and background research
• Data organization and analysis assistance
• Mapping, GIS, or visualization support
Communications & Administration
• Website and content support
• Grant and donor communications assistance
• General administrative and organizational support
Not all roles involve field work, many opportunities are remote or hybrid.
Who We’re Looking For
GLBI welcomes volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds, including:
• Students and early-career professionals
• Retired professionals with relevant experience
• Conservation-minded community members
• Individuals interested in agriculture, water quality, or soil science
No prior experience with biochar is required, training and guidance are provided as needed.
Time Commitment & Flexibility
Volunteer commitments are flexible and can range from:
• One-time project support
• Short-term commitments tied to specific initiatives
• Ongoing involvement depending on availability
We work with volunteers to match interests, skills, and schedules.
Training & Support
GLBI is committed to providing:
• Clear expectations and role descriptions
• Safety guidance for any field-based activities
• Access to staff support and technical partners
• A respectful, collaborative working environment
How to Get Involved
If you’re interested in volunteering with GLBI, we’d love to hear from you.
[Contact Us] together, we can support practical solutions that protect Great Lakes watersheds while supporting working agricultural landscapes.

