OBJECTIVE: To obtain clean seed for use in natural areas planning.

RESPONSIBILITIES: Using "antique" fanning mills, chipper-shredders and other gadgets and machines, separate seeds from seed heads, twigs, chaff and other debris.

May also include weighing, bagging and labeling seeds. This is dirty, dusty, noisy work.

The work is done at the Parks Department. These are seeds collected by volunteers, the value of which allows us to restore natural areas at the rate of 20-40 acres/year.

QUALIFICATIONS: Good health, stamina to be on your feet. Anyone with allergies, asthma or other respiratory problem, please volunteer for something else.

TRAINING & PREPARATION: On the job. Orientation to the process. Protective masks are provided.

COMMITMENT: Work days are usually 9:00-3:00, mid-week. Volunteers can come for all or part of that time. Seed cleaning is done December-February.

EVALUATION: Verbal/written

BENEFITS: Use and learn skills, enhance a resume, enjoy camaraderie. Learn to identify species in the seed stage.

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Revised: June 22, 1998