Volunteering

 Read our Guide and howVolunteer service in the Forest Service was formalized in the Volunteers in the National Forest Act of 1972. The national forests, grasslands, and prairies are there for you to enjoy because many people have served over numerous years to preserve, protect and improve them.

The Value of Volunteers

Outer Coast College volunteer crew with the Sitka Ranger District Recreation crew working on an Indian River trail project

Volunteers are an important part of caring for the land and serving the people on our National Forests. The Tongass National Forest is proud to host volunteers and work with volunteer organizations who contribute thousands of hours of service each year. We appreciate the enormous contribution of people who want to give back to their public lands while enjoying an incredible experience in the Alaskan rainforest.

Volunteering isn't just beneficial for the forest, it benefits you. It can give you the opportunity to pursue a special interest, such as bird watching or hiking. 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. The types of work a volunteer can perform are many and varied.

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.

Give something back by volunteering. Find a volunteer position on the Tongass at Volunteer.gov.

Volunteer Openings  Volunteer Resource Center Volunteer Guide 

USDA FS Citizen Stewardship Volunteer Fact Sheet 

• Read this handy volunteer guide
• Find Tongass Forest Service volunteer openings 
• Submit the following appropriate form: 
  • Volunteer Individual Form (PDF)
  • Volunteer Group Form (PDF)
  • Volunteer Forms Instructions (PDF)

For more information about volunteering:

• Tongass National Forest Lead Partnership & Volunteer Coordinator, Amanda Cochran 907-713-5612

• Tongas National Forest Partnership Coordinator,  
  Mathew Armstrong 907-228-6228

• Tongas National Forest Partnership & Volunteer Coordinator, Jessica Deviche 907-738-289