UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center Volunteer Docent Program

Join the Tahoe Science Center cohort of docents. Share your love for the Tahoe community and contribute to efforts of fostering sustainable action in the basin. Communicate impactful knowledge to folks of all ages on the environmental issues, geology, and history of research of Lake Tahoe. At UC Davis TERC, docents can: Provide tours for student groups, local residents, and visitors to the region at our UC Davis Tahoe Science Center and other facilities. Host a monthly lecture seriesand various workshops and conferences. Give informal lectures to diverse audiences including student groups, college classes, Dean’s Future Scholars, local community organizations, local nonprofit groups, local government agency officials, state and federal dignitaries, and youth groups such as Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. Assist in our other highly popular programs, including Ski with a Scientist. Our programs are increasingly gaining recognition, growing in size and number, and providing the north shore of Lake Tahoe with important educational services in addition to the research services we are known for. Our robust training program makes it simple to get started. Docent training can be completed in two ways. The first option is receiving one-on-one training anytime by meeting with staff at the UC Davis Tahoe Science Center and completing all reading and video materials provided. The second option is attending our intensive Summer Session in Tahoe program June 24th-30th, 2025, consisting of highly informative lectures by researchers and engaging group activities. Email Alison Toy (antoy@ucdavis.edu) for more information. Volunteer docents are required to volunteer 40 hours per year. This is equal to about 10 shifts at the Tahoe Science Center per year. Watch our video to learn more: Tahoe Science Center 1 shift available: Tahoe Science Center tours offered on Tu, Wed, Thurs, and Friday at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m: Monday July 21, 2025 - 10:45 to 13:30 PST