Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Volunteer Programs topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
COSCA adopts updated volunteer manual; adds Trail Ambassadors and background checks for certain leadership roles
Summary
COSCA adopted a 2025 volunteer manual that formalizes programs, adds a Trail Ambassadors role, incorporates a volunteer code of ethics and a harassment policy, and requires background checks for volunteer positions that supervise others; board authorized staff to correct typographical errors.
The Conejo Open Space Conservation Agency adopted an updated 2025 volunteer manual intended to align volunteer management with COSCA's current oversight capacity and add a Trail Ambassadors program. The board approved the manual and granted the COSCA secretary authority to correct non‑substantive typographic errors.
Staff described the Trail Ambassadors as a relaunch and expansion of a former trail patrol program: trained volunteers who will assist visitors, report issues to rangers and increase COSCA presence on trails. The updated manual also adds a volunteer code of ethics, a program harassment policy and background checks (live scan) for volunteer positions that lead other volunteers or work unsupervised with the public.
Board members discussed registration and waivers. Staff said volunteers generally provide contact information and may opt into a volunteer database managed in partnership with the Conejo Open Space Foundation; however, event waivers remain event‑specific at present. Staff said casual volunteers are welcome and that some volunteer positions that supervise others will require additional screening.
Directors praised the manual as an administrative update that captures program changes and will be posted on COSCA's website for public access. The board approved the recommendations, 5‑0.
