Volunteers
There are many opportunities to volunteer on the Hoosier National Forest. We welcome individuals and groups that wish to assist in the stewardship of their public lands. We may also be able to arrange special programs such as internships, service projects, or workdays for your group. Volunteers may even be able to earn a free trail permit! Give us a call at either of our offices to get more information.
Becoming a Volunteer
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please complete a volunteer application form and submit it to the office closest to you (Bedford or Tell City). Applications can be brought to either office, scanned and emailed, faxed or mailed to our offices.
Email: SM.FS.R9HOFwebsite@usda.gov
Fax: 844-958-1603
Volunteer Requirements
Volunteers working in our office, on our computer system, or one-on-one with an employee, other volunteer, or with children will require finger printing and a background check done at government expense. Volunteers who work alone or with large groups are not required to have background checks. Volunteer positions requiring background checks may not begin until background checks are completed.
Volunteer and Earn a Free Trail Permit
Horse and bike riders can earn a free trail permit by volunteering for trail projects. Find out more about details of how to give back, and get a little something in return.
Annual Deam Wilderness & Pate Hollow Weed Wrangles
Are you concerned for the health of our forests? Keep them green by helping Hoosier National Forest and Monroe County Identify and Reduce Invasive Species.
Adopt a Campsite
We are looking for individuals or groups that would be interested in helping us maintain our dispersed campsite locations across the Forest. The main duties would be picking up trash, maintaining stone campfire rings and letting the Forest Service staff know about any issues such as downed trees, large dumpsites or tree damage. Volunteers are asked to visit their adopted campsites monthly, but there is flexibility with the volunteer's schedule. The Forest Service will supply garbage bags and gloves. If you are interested in adopting a campsite, please contact Cheryl at: cheryl.coon@usda.gov, or 812-276-4744 to learn more.
Smokey and Woodsy Program Assistant
Join us for a rewarding volunteer opportunity bringing joy and conservation messages to the public. If you are interested in and want more information on helping us to bear the responsibility of teaching kids “Only you can prevent wildfires,” then please reach out to our staff at (812)275-5987 or email us at SM.FS.R9HOFwebsite@usda.gov. Volunteer opportunities exist for our Tell City and Bedford offices.