2026 Citizen Science Eel Monitors

Volunteers are needed on both weekdays and weekends to help the Rye Nature Center monitor the endangered American Eel as it migrates through the Blind Brook from the Atlantic Ocean. From March to June, a team of staff and volunteers will check nets during low tide to count, weigh, and re-release eels. (Watch this short video to learn more about this process!)

This is a great opportunity for volunteers to build new skills and learn about local conservation efforts. All volunteers will be provided with training, supplies (including waders and wading gloves), and an opportunity to select the dates they are available. Note: volunteers must be prepared to be outdoors (regardless of weather), wear waders, and stand in cold water for short periods of time.

This opportunity requires volunteers to sign a mandatory waiver:

1. Express interest below (or "Express Interest with a Family, Group or Team" if registering alongside 1 or more other volunteers or if a volunteer on your team is between 8-14) to record this opportunity in your Volunteer New York! profile and to alert the volunteer coordinator.
2. Click the appropriate waiver below to complete your registration with Friends of Rye Nature Center. Volunteers who do not complete the waiver may not be registered!
   1. Youth waiver (ages 8-17)
   2. Adult waiver (ages 18+)