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Caring for the Land and Serving People
Those seven words sum up the Forest Service's Mission. It's a pretty big mission, and the truth is, we couldn't accomplish it without the help of our volunteers.
If you're already a volunteer or partner, thanks for all that you've done! We hope to work with you more in the future. If you've never volunteered, but you're interested in getting involved, please take a few minutes to explore this site.
There are many ways you can volunteer. Some of these involve sweat, blisters, and bug bites. Some require pounding nails or maintaining trails. Some involve greeting visitors and providing information for a forest vacation. You may find a volunteer opportunity at an archeology site sifting through soil layers and uncovering artifacts. You may help with watershed restoration, reforestation, plant surveys, wildlife surveys, or providing interpretation and naturalist services at a Visitor Center. On the White Mountain National Forest, most of our volunteers travel from other parts of the country and spend the summer in one of our campgrounds, often near other volunteers. Our local volunteers live in the area year-round and help welcome our seasonal volunteers.
Chances are, if you've got a skill or interest, we might be able to match it with a need.
Why Volunteer?
Stewardship of 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.
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.
What Can I Do?
Some typical volunteer activities include:
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Maintaining campgrounds and trailheads
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Building and maintaining trails
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Answering phones and greeting visitors
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Working with computers
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Taking photographs
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Presenting environmental education programs
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Building and repairing fences, picnic tables, and other structures
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Building barrier-free campsites
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Restoring areas damaged by fire
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Assisting scientific researchers
Who Can Volunteer with the Forest Service? 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.
Typical volunteers include retirees, professionals, international visitors, college students, teenagers, and children.
The Forest Service encourages diversity in the volunteer work force just as it does for its paid employees. This diversity enhances the work experience and brings the Forest Service's message back to communities and people who may benefit from its mission.
Would you like to know more?
Chances are, if you're interested in volunteering, you would like more information about specifics such as available positions, campground availability, amenities, compensation, tools, materials, and equipment. We'd love to talk with you. Please contact:
Colleen Mainville
603-528-8796 or cmainville@fs.fed.us
If you've got experience to share, an interest to pursue, or a commitment to Caring for the Land and Serving People, volunteering on the White Mountain National Forest may be right for you. Please give us a call! |
