Fully half of Virginia is drained by Chesapeake Bay rivers, and two-thirds of the state's population lives within the Bay watershed. From the farm fields of the Shenandoah Valley to the pinewoods of the Eastern Shore, for most Virginians the Bay is as close as the nearest creek or stream.

VOLUNTEER

Every year, volunteers donate more than 25,000 hours to CBF programs that advance the Bay's health. The immediate results of their work are impressive. But the value of their undertaking for future generations is priceless. We salute our volunteers for their contribution to a better community and a restored Bay.

Volunteer opportunities specific to the Hampton Roads area are:

 

  • Speakers Bureau: Use your expertise and interest in Chesapeake Bay issues to engage local communities in saving the Bay. We will let you know about groups, clubs, schools, etc. interested in having CBF speakers come and talk about the Chesapeake Bay and CBF. You are required to attend a speaker orientation, held once per year, to learn about our subject matter in more detail. Join the Speakers Bureau.
     
  • Clean the Bay Day: Thousands of volunteers turn out every June for Clean the Bay Day. CBF works with cities and counties in the area to locate sites and site captains. Be sure to sign up early, as cities such as Virginia Beach and Norfolk tend to fill up.

  • Oyster Gardening: Want to help restore the oyster population? Become an oyster gardener, if you live near or have access to salt water. Or, assist CBF staff in the collection and distribution of adult oysters during the summer.

  • Oyster Farm: Volunteer at our oyster farm, located on Sarah’s Creek off the York River. The farm has the capacity to grow 1 million oysters each year. Depending on the time of year, activities include harvesting and transplanting adult oysters, cleaning oyster cages, and transferring baby oysters to the grow-out system.

  • Fairs and Festivals:  There are many great events in Hampton Roads, such as Harbor Fest and the Boardwalk Art Show. We often get requests to be at these events, but simply cannot attend them all due to staff limitations. This is your opportunity to help spread the word about CBF and its programs. You will receive free entry into the event if you volunteer.

If you would like to become involved and have not volunteered before, please complete our Volunteer Information Form. If you are already a CBF volunteer and would like more information about current opportunities, contact our Hampton Roads office at (757) 622-1964 or hamptonroads@cbf.org.