Volunteering

You can help

The Forest Service uses volunteers for a variety of programs. Some volunteer projects involve trail maintenance or campground hosting while other projects have restored stream banks. The types of projects depend on our funding, what needs to get done and the complexity of the project. Call any of our Forest offices to inquire about potential volunteer opportunities. For national opportunities, look in the Volunteer Directory.

Many different choices

Some volunteers work full-time for several months, while others donate a few hours each week or contribute a one-time service. Students may volunteer to earn college credits through a college-approved intern program, or to become familiar with Forest Service activities and philosophy. Many individuals have found that their volunteer experience has guided them towards job interest and possible careers. Retirees often find volunteering gives them a new opportunity to share their skills.

Who can volunteer?

Volunteers are individuals and groups with varying levels of skills and abilities who help the Forest Service to meet its’ mission. Whether you want to work with your hands in the outdoors, help scientists conduct research or work with people at our many visitors center, there’s something for everyone. Whatever your education, talent or interest might be there , are a variety of opportunities to provide support on your national forests, grasslands, research stations, and other Forest Service projects. Check out these example volunteer duties:

Serve as a campground host to maintain sites and facilities, and manage campground safety
Greet and share information with the public or visitors at a visitor center
Maintain and clear trails, remove hazardous trees
Conduct inventory of wildlife and plants
Serve as a fire lookout to spot wildfires
Participate in special service projects, such as National Public Lands Day
Observe and explore changes to ecosystems through BioBlitz events

Volunteering provides great opportunities to:

Do work that helps to improve forests and grasslands
Learn more about natural and cultural resources
Give back to communities and connect diverse groups to our public lands
Meet new people and form valuable relationships
Be recognized for contributions to get work done
Get involved in public service and gain rewarding experience

Volunteers are reimbursed for approved, out-of-pocket expenses but do not receive a salary or hourly wage. Volunteers must be signed up though an official Volunteer Service Agreement (OF-301a), or work through a Forest Service partner organization.