What type of person is MSC looking for? 
Someone like you!  We need people who are hardy enough to swing a pick or who would not mind stuffing an envelope.

What does MSC ask of its volunteers?

 We ask that you contribute to the best of your ability.  There are 3 ways to help MSC achieve our mission:

Giving Your Time - Probably the most valuable commodity we each have, is what MSC’s needs most in order to regularly patrol and maintain over 100 miles of trails, construct new trails, host trailheads, lead hikes, send out mailings, and innumerable other tasks that need to be done.

Giving Your Talent - Each of you has a skill that MSC can use. Graphic design? Carpentry? Sewing? Writing? Videography? Drawing? You name it – we can probably use it!

Giving Your Treasure - MSC is a non-profit organization that relies solely on private donations. Every dollar we raise contributes to our ability to serve the community effectively. Please consider supporting the Preserve by making a contribution to MSC today.

What training is available?

The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy provides outstanding education opportunities that both prepare volunteers for service and provide continual learning opportunities throughout the year. Volunteers are encouraged to take courses to expand their knowledge as well as refresh their skills.

New Steward Orientation

The 12 hour two day class portion (on consecutive Saturdays) of the New Steward Orientation provides a background into how the Preserve was established, relationship between MSC and City of Scottsdale, and methods MSC uses to meets it mission.   In addition participants are introduced to the wide range of Stewardship opportunities, trail system, methods to promote a safe experience while hiking in the Preserve, communicating with the public, patrol strategies and reporting trail conditions.  

Participants who complete the two day class portion of the orientation, receive a MSC shirt and  are assigned to a Mentor.  The Mentor  guides them through the Passport portion of the orientation during which the "steward-in-training" has field introduction to the multiple Stewardship opportunities.  Upon completion of the Passport, the "steward-in-training" receives their official Steward shirt and badge.  

There is a $50 charge for the new Steward training classes. We use this money to help offset the cost of providing breakfasts, lunches, t-shirts, and other materials.

Natural History For some activities, having a working knowledge of the Preserve’s flora, fauna, geology, and human history is necessary. This class provides a foundation of science knowledge. Common misconceptions are clarified and unique stories about the Preserve’s residents are shared.

Program Orientations Some MSC programs require their own orientation.   In these sessions participants learn the ‘ins-and-outs’ of the program, meet the leadership, receive additional resources, and more.

Continuing Education MSC believes that lifelong learning is vital and, therefore, we provide education opportunities throughout the year. Stewards are always encouraged to participate in as many continuing education classes as possible.