Adventure Journal: Summer Volunteer Days at Grand Teton

Youth Conservation Program (YCP) Participants improve a backcountry trail in Grand Teton.
Youth Conservation Program (YCP) Participants improve a backcountry trail in Grand Teton.

Are you looking for a rewarding way to spend your summer while giving back to the park you love? Grand Teton National Park is calling for volunteers to help with trail work and native seed collection happening in the park this season!

Trail volunteer days will be held on Thursdays throughout the summer, with some exceptions. The event starts at 9 am and typically goes until 3 pm. Volunteers are welcome to stay for as long as they like. All ages and skills are welcome, and no previous experience is required. Please remember to bring the following for your outdoor work day: snacks, weather appropriate clothing, closed-toed shoes, sunscreen, and extra water. If your project involves thorny vegetation, long pants are recommended. Lunch will not be provided, so please bring your own. Protective equipment will be provided on-site.

Please RSVP by contacting Angela Timby at angela_timby@nps.gov. Transportation is not provided, and interested individuals are encouraged to reach out via email to find out about the weekly locations.

Trail Volunteer Days Schedule:
July 11, 18, and 25
August 8, 15, and 22
September 12, 19, and 26

YCP members Natalie and Robert assist the Vegetation Crew collecting Balsamroot seeds to help maintain this native species in Grand Teton.
YCP members Natalie and Robert assist the Vegetation Crew collecting Balsamroot seeds to help maintain this native species in Grand Teton.

Seed collecting is a great way to get involved in conservation and contribute to preserving native plant species within Grand Teton.

Volunteers will meet at the Moose Post Office at 9 am. Upon arrival, Grand Teton National Park staffer Jasmine Cutter will provide all necessary volunteer waivers, snacks, beverages, and seed-collecting supplies. Volunteers will then carpool to the seed collection site, where NPS staff will demonstrate how to identify the target seeds and proper collection techniques. We'll be collecting seeds until around 12 or 12:30 pm. Don't forget to bring water, sunscreen, snacks, and bear spray. Long pants and closed-toed shoes are recommended for this outdoor activity. After the collection, volunteers who wish to stay longer can socialize and enjoy lunch with the team from 12:30 to 1 pm.

All ages are welcome; however, participants under 18 need a parent/guardian to sign their volunteer waiver. For any questions or to request a waiver to sign in advance, contact Jasmine Cutter at Jasmine_Cutter@partner.nps.gov.

Seed Collection Schedule:
Saturday, July 27, 9 am-12:30 pm
Wednesday, August 14, 9 am-12:30 pm
Wednesday, August 28, 9 am-12:30 pm
Wednesday, September 11, 9 am-12:30 pm
Wednesday, September 25, 9 am-12:30 pm
Wednesday, October 2, 9 am-12:30 pm
Wednesday, October, 9 am-12:30 pm

We can't wait to see you there!

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