Richard B. Russell Dam and Lake

Recreation Areas - Volunteer Information

Volunteer Program

We need your help! As a volunteer, you can:
  • Work outdoors
  • Meet new people
  • Learn alongside knowledgeable professionals
  • Achieve a proud sense of contributing to the future of the nation
  • Plus, it's just plain fun!

Making a Difference!!!

Leave a legacy by volunteering to preserve recreation and natural resources at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lakes.

In this era of government downsizing, agencies have become increasingly reliant on the assistance of private citizens. These volunteers play a vital role for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Russell Project. Richard B. Russell Lake is located near Elberton, GA, however, located far enough out of the city to provide a truly natural environment yet very accessible to many large metropolitan areas. As a volunteer you will be part of a team that works together to conserve our nation’s recreation resources keeping valuable assets accessible to the public. In many cases, Volunteer Park Hosts, and Park Gate Attendants, are the first contact the public has with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Everyone can Leave a Legacy of Service

Anyone can volunteer at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facilities: Scout units, civic organizations, local businesses, youth centers, school groups, retirees and more. All of these volunteers assist us in building and maintaining our recreational facilities as well as developing natural areas where animals and plants can thrive.

You can become part of the team and help us meet our missions for the nation. We need volunteers for a wide variety of operational activities including:
  • Water Safety programs
  • Adopt a park program
  • Tree plantings
  • Trail work
  • Wildlife nesting program
  • Community outreach
  • Park Watch
  • Shoreline and park clean up
  • Fish attractors
  • Clerical admin assistance
  • Buoy inspections
  • Assist with the life jacket loaner program
  • Visitor Center operations
  • Boat patrol with park rangers
  • Updating bulletin boards at park areas.
If you are interested in a fun and challenging experience as a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Volunteer please contact Volunteer Coordinator Erin Parnell by email or phone at 706-313-3400 for information about joining our team. If you're interested in volunteer opportunities at other U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects visit the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Volunteer Program Nationwide Volunteer Clearinghouse web site or call the volunteer hotline at 1-800-VOL-TEER.


Russell Lake Project Office
ATTN: Volunteer Coordinator
4144 Russell Dam Drive
Elberton, GA 30635-9271
Telephone: 706-213-3400