Volunteer Old-Growth Forest Data Collection Session

This is a multi-week field-based volunteer role for people who want to be outdoors while helping survey an old-growth forest. You’ll hike with the Land Stewardship Field Technician and other volunteers, learn simple field methods, and record observations of trees, understory saplings, and seedlings using datasheets or a mobile device. You do not need extensive knowledge of tree identification or forestry field methods, although they may help. Please do not feel as though you are unqualified if you do not have these skills, our staff is happy to teach you!

To maintain consistency and accuracy in our data collection, we ask that you commit to attending multiple of these sessions over a 6-week period. Sessions are held on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, from 8:30-11:30am. You do not have to attend every session, please register for each session you plan to attend through our website. If we need to cancel due to inclement weather, only registered participants will be notified.

Our volunteer activities are suitable for ages 13 and up, but volunteers under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

More details about this volunteer opportunity can be found below. Please email fieldtech@whfarmfoundation.org with any questions about this opportunity.

Impact: The notes and measurements you provide help the Land Stewardship Team make informed decisions, directly supporting the long-term health and protection of this forest. Your involvement makes a real difference.

Time Commitment

• 3-6 hours per week for approximately 6 weeks.

• Tuesday & Thursday mornings 8:30-11:30am

Attire: All volunteers must wear closed-toe shoes and long pants to protect against thorns, insect bites, and poison ivy. Anyone who is dressed inappropriately (shorts, sandals, etc.) will not be allowed to volunteer.

Primary Responsibilities

• Follow all safety guidance, stay with the group, and use required personal protective equipment (PPE) as instructed.

• Hike with the crew to survey areas.

• Assist with plot layout using a measuring tape, compass, and post markers. This will be completed in the earliest stages of volunteer work. 

• Accurately measure tree Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) using a DBH tape.

• Help identify and record basic forest features (species when known, canopy or tree condition, seedlings/saplings, downed wood, and notable habitat features).

• Record and double-check data clearly on datasheets or a mobile form.

• Place flagging as directed to help the team relocate plots or individual trees.

• Support end-of-day wrap-up by organizing gear, confirming all points were surveyed, and reporting any safety or access issues.

Secondary Responsibilities

• Arrive on time, sign in/out as required, and communicate schedule changes or concerns to the Field Technician as early as possible.

• Complete required forms (e.g., volunteer waiver, emergency contact information) and follow site access rules.

• Practice Leave No Trace: minimize disturbance, pack out trash, and respect plants, wildlife, and cultural resources.

• Maintain respectful, professional conduct with staff, partners, and other volunteers; support an inclusive, welcoming environment.

• Handle equipment carefully and help with set-up/clean-up (organize gear, return tools, and confirm nothing is left behind).

• Report hazards, trail/access issues, or notable observations (e.g., storm damage, invasive species) to the Land Stewardship Team.

Skills and Qualifications

• Ability to walk on uneven terrain, step over logs, and work comfortably in wooded conditions is preferred; volunteers of all fitness levels are encouraged to participate, with guidance provided.

• Ability to work safely outdoors in variable weather (heat, humidity, light rain) and adapt to changing field conditions.

• The ability to comfortably use field tools such as a DBH tape, datasheets, or a mobile device is helpful; no prior technical experience is required, as training will be provided.

• Attention to detail when taking measurements and recording observations (read the DBH tape correctly, write legibly, and double-check entries).

• Reliability and punctuality; able to commit to scheduled survey days and communicate if plans change.

• Safety-minded and team-oriented; able to stay with the group, maintain situational awareness, and follow guidance.

Desired Experience

• Tree Identification knowledge

• Enjoys spending time outdoors in variable weather and on uneven terrain; comfortable hiking and being in the woods.

• Curiosity about forests, ecology, wildlife, and land stewardship (no formal background required).

• Strong observation skills and attention to detail; able to notice differences in trees, seedlings, understory plants, and site conditions.

• Patience with repeated, step-by-step tasks (measuring, counting, recording, and double-checking entries).

• Willingness to learn and follow survey protocols is important; comprehensive training and ongoing support will be provided to ensure confidence in data collection and safety.

• Team-oriented and communicative; comfortable asking questions and taking direction in the field.

• Comfort with simple tools and technology.