Ecology Volunteers
Join our Ecology Volunteers and be part of the solution to protecting native habitats from invasive species! As an Ecology Volunteer, you’ll help monitor, manage, and remove invasive plants across New York and New Jersey’s trails and parks. Whether you’re surveying trails or assisting with removal efforts, your work will play a crucial role in preserving our natural landscapes. No experience is required—just a passion for conservation! Ready to get involved? Sign up today and make a real impact in the fight against invasive species!
Restoration Volunteers
Restoration Volunteers work to protect native habitats by removing invasive plants across parks in New York and New Jersey. From the Delaware Water Gap to Bergen County, NJ, and Orange to Dutchess County, NY, the crew makes a lasting impact on our beloved outdoor spaces.
How to Join:
No prior experience is needed—bring work gloves and enthusiasm. We provide on-the-job training. Sign up for a scheduled work trip below
Reminder:
Bring work gloves, water, and lunch. Trips are usually canceled if it’s raining.
Surveyor Volunteers
Become a Surveyor Volunteer and help monitor the health of our forests by documenting invasive and native species along our trails!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join a team dedicated to protecting our natural habitats by identifying high-priority invasive species. You’ll receive fun, interactive training through webinars and field ID footage, then be assigned a trail section to survey at your convenience throughout the summer and fall. Your data will help shape management decisions and organize removal efforts, all while enhancing your natural knowledge through mobile apps and fieldwork.
Habitat Helpers
Join the Habitat Helpers and use your passion for gardening and conservation to help maintain the beautiful native plant garden at the historic Darlington Schoolhouse, home to the Trail Conference Headquarters in Mahwah, NJ. As a Habitat Helper, you’ll play a vital role in preserving the natural beauty and sustainability of New Jersey’s landscape.
“I have surveyed for the past several years, and I love that this program allows me to explore new and familiar parks to a greater extent. It’s nice to have an excuse to spend time outside and clear my mind while helping the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference monitor invasive species growth. I have really enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about regional invasive species and I look forward to surveying next year!”
Annalise Jarski