Trail Conference
Conservation Dogs Program
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Protecting Nature One Sniff at a Time
The Conservation Dogs Program pairs highly trained detection dogs with expert handlers to detect invasive species, survey protected wildlife, and monitor ecological change. These canine teams are trusted partners in our mission, bringing precision, energy, and heart to every field assignment.
Want to meet the dogs, learn how they work, or support the program? Keep sniffing around—we’ve got you covered.
Who We Are
The Conservation Dogs Program is a regional leader in detection-based conservation and an integral part of the Ecological Stewardship team at the Trail Conference. Since 2018, our handler-dog teams have partnered with numerous conservation entities to bolster efforts at safeguarding critical habitats across New York and New Jersey. Our canine detection methods have demonstrated up to 65% increased detection rates compared to traditional survey methods, providing a powerful force multiplier for conservation initiatives.
Meet the Dogs
Trained to sniff out what others can’t see, our conservation dogs are the heart of the program. Whether in wetlands, forests, or grasslands, they bring precision, energy, and heart to every assignment.
What is a Conservation Dog?
In the fight to preserve biodiversity, conservation dogs provide a game-changing advantage. With a sense of smell up to 100,000 times more powerful than ours, these dogs can detect species that are nearly impossible to locate with traditional human methods.
What We Do
The Conservation Dogs Program advances science-driven conservation through three core focus areas:
Invasive Species Management
Early detection is critical. Our dogs help identify hard-to-find invasive plants and insects before they become widespread threats, giving land managers a head start in protecting native habitats.
Native Species Monitoring
From rare native turtles to imperiled New England Cottontails, our canine teams are trained to detect the scent of elusive species, helping scientists monitor populations and inform protection strategies.
Community Outreach & Educational Workshops
We partner with schools, nonprofits, and other agencies to educate the next generation of environmental stewards. Through live demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and public events, we raise awareness and inspire action.
Featured Field Work
From invasive species detection to rare wildlife monitoring, our canine teams are in the field making a difference every day. Here are a few standout projects showcasing the power of conservation dogs in action.
Detecting wood and box turtles in the Hudson Valley to support smarter habitat protection and restoration.
Rapid-response detection and removal of a fast-spreading invasive threatening the Appalachian Trail corridor.
Pioneering rare plant detection with canine scent surveys for endangered orchids in NJ forests.
Wagging Tails, Saving Trails Video
Get a behind-the-scenes look at our Conservation Dogs in action—from forest trails to wetland habitats. This short film highlights how detection dogs are transforming conservation across the Northeast.
Calling All Dog Lovers!
Love to explore with your dog? Ever wondered if your pup’s nose could protect the lands you love? Join our NEW Volunteer Dog Surveyor Program!
Follow Our Journey
Follow us on Instagram
for photos and field updates
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to support the dogs
Watch us on YouTube
for conservation stories