Volunteers
Volunteers are the heartbeat of the Forest Service
The US Forest Service Volunteer Program has something for almost everyone: youth, people of all abilities, retirees, professionals, homemakers, students, as well as service clubs, organizations, and more. We invite you to join the more than 2.8 million volunteers who, since 1972, have provided more than 123 million hours of service.
Forest Service Volunteers:
- Help manage campgrounds
- Interact with the public at visitor centers
- Help run events and lead projects, like National Public Lands Day
- Build trails
- Inventory wildlife and plants
- Serve as fire lookouts
Why Volunteer?
Volunteering can provide valuable experience and lifelong memories. Opportunities range from a single-day project to a long-term undertaking lasting several months. The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests is a resource we all share. You may help fulfill the Forest Service mission at the same time that you:
- Earn college credits with volunteer internships
- Diversify your job experience
- Provide community service
- Increase your career choices
- Meet people and form new friendships
For more information about volunteering on the GMUG, please contact Julie Jackson at (970) 250-9498 or julie.jackson@usda.gov.
Volunteering on Public Lands Just Got More Rewarding!
You can receive the “America the Beautiful” Volunteer Pass
What are the benefits of the pass? The pass covers entrance and/or standard amenity fees on lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Bureau of Reclamation, and Bureau of Land Management. Passes are valid for one year from the issuance date.
How can I qualify for a Volunteer pass? You can receive an America the Beautiful Volunteer Pass in recognition of your efforts by accruing 250 hours of volunteer service on participating Federal public lands. Simply coordinate tracking of your hours with your volunteer supervisor or volunteer coordinator and they can request the pass for you.
Find more information about the America the Beautiful Volunteer Pass and purchasing information on the USGS Website.
Other Resources
Forest Service Volunteer Program
Join over 80,000 volunteers annually to be part of something greater.
National Volunteer Opportunities
Discover volunteer opportunities in your area through Volunteer.gov.
Employment Opportunities
Turn your passion for volunteering on public lands into a rewarding career with the GMUG!