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Volunteering
Volunteers are the heartbeat of the Forest Service
Get involved and help out while enjoying the company of your fellow volunteers and visitors! The commitment you make is up to you.
The opportunities are endless!
- Work part-time or full-time.
- Training may be provided.
- Your talents and preferences are matched to find a role that is fulfilling to you and the USDA Forest Service mission.
- Participate in a one-time project, several projects over several months or seasons, or year-round.
- If you are retired or have summers free, you may wish to live on a National Forest while you work as a volunteer.
- College students may perform volunteer service related to their coursework for college credit.
- A variety of jobs are available if you prefer the office environment.
- There are also numerous opportunities to perform vigorous but satisfying physical labor outdoors.
How to Volunteer? Start by Applying.
To apply for volunteer work on the Cibola National Forest & National Grassland, complete the appropriate forms. If you need a form mailed or faxed, please contact one of our offices.
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Individual Volunteers
Start by filling out the volunteer interest form and sending it to the ranger district you'd like to volunteer with. - English and Español
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Group Volunteers
Teams, packs and groups, fill out the sign-up form and send it to the ranger district you'd like to volunteer with.
Types of Volunteer Opportunities
The types of work a volunteer can perform are as varied and diverse as the backgrounds and abilities of those who volunteer, including conservation education, nature interpretation, trail and facility maintenance, campground hosting, and reception, just to name a few. Some typical volunteer activities include:
- Maintaining and hosting campgrounds
- Building and maintaining trails
- Answering phones and greeting visitors
- Working with computers
- Providing website content
- Taking photographs
- Planting trees and seeding damaged areas
- Presenting environmental education programs
- Building and repairing fences, picnic tables, and other structures
- Building barrier-free campsites
- Restoring areas damaged by fire
- Assisting scientific researchers
Check out some past volunteering events.
More Information about Volunteering
Stewardship of the national forests is everyone's responsibility. The national forests and grasslands are there for you to enjoy because many people have served over numerous years to preserve, protect and improve them. Now you can give something back by volunteering. Your services are much needed because the Forest Service, like other government agencies, has a limited budget.
But volunteering isn't just beneficial for the forests, it benefits you. Simply put, it's fun! It can give you the opportunity to pursue a special interest, such as bird watching or hiking. It has the potential to enrich and improve your life. Spending time in the outdoors, enjoying the company of your fellow volunteers and visitors, can give you a new perspective on other facets of your life.
Anyone who wants to become involved may apply! Both individuals and groups of a variety of ages, lifestyles and professions can contribute to the mission of the Forest Service. Learn more about volunteering for the Forest Service with this volunteer guide.
Typical volunteers include retirees, professionals, international visitors, college students, teenagers and children. Those under the age of 18 must have written consent of their parents or guardians. Volunteers must be in good enough health to allow them to perform their duties without risk to themselves or others. A medical exam, paid for by the Federal Government, may be required for some jobs. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to volunteer.
The Forest Service encourages diversity in the volunteer workforce. This diversity enhances the work experience and brings the Forest Service's message back to communities and people who may benefit from its mission.
Joining an existing organization is good way to learn the ropes and become familiar with the volunteer community. Presently, there are two longstanding volunteer groups in the Albuquerque area.
Features
Volunteer Week 2024
Learn more about the fantastic volunteer groups working around the Cibola National Forest! Updated throughout the week of April 22.
Alerts & Warnings
- Termination of Mountainair RD Capilla Closure 03-03-04-25-02
- Sandia RD Cedro 4 Area Closure Order North of FSR 462 03-03-05-24-13
- Bear Trap Campground Remains Closed through December 31, 2025
- Discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun is prohibited
- Termination of Order 03-03-02-25-01 WSMR Testing Closure
- Occupancy & Use Prohibitions Forest Order #03-03-00-23-03