Sunshine over river and trees

Volunteer Activity COVID-19 Guidance

Learn more about State Parks' ongoing recommendations and guidance for volunteers activities and COVID-19.

Washington State Parks revised COVID protocols for volunteers

In accordance with Governor Inslee’s announcement to end the remaining COVID-19 emergency orders and state of emergency on May 11, 2023, Washington State Parks has updated the following guidance for volunteer activities within State Parks owned and managed properties.

Vaccine requirements

The primary COVID vaccine series requirement has been removed for all volunteers. Vaccinations for volunteers are still highly encouraged by public health experts. 

Masks

As of November 1st, 2022, masking is no longer required for Parks employees and volunteers in the workplace. 

Masks are required in the workplace for individuals who have recently had or been exposed to COVID. Hosts will be required to follow current DOH and CDC guidelines.

Volunteers are free to wear masks while volunteering.  We recognize there are many reasons volunteers may choose to continue to mask – or not. No volunteer will have to justify or explain their choice, and all staff and volunteers will be expected to continue to respect their colleagues, regardless of their masking choice.

Self-screen and COVID symptom/positive and exposure protocols

All volunteers, regardless of vaccination status, must self-screen before arriving at or entering the park. Any volunteers that feel unwell, show any symptoms of COVID-19 or are a close contact of a confirmed case will not be allowed to participate in volunteer activities.

Park hosts must self-screen daily. If you know or think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 and don’t have any symptoms, report your potential exposure to your supervisor right away. If you have symptoms, stop interacting with visitors and immediately notify park staff.

Isolation/quarantine procedures

In the event a host tests positive for COVID, has COVID-like symptoms, or if there are other health and safety related concerns in the park, hosts may be asked to leave the park until it is safe to return, following current DOH and CDC guidelines.

Other general guidance

Use proper hygiene practices and wash hands frequently.

When sharing tools, wear gloves and disinfect tools between uses according to CDC guidelines.

Pack out what you pack in. Take all garbage with you, including masks and disposable gloves.

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