Invasive Weed Volunteers survey trails in Willamette National Forest wilderness areas in search of weeds that out-compete native species. Each spring, a weed identification training is held in cooperation with forest botanists. The training introduces volunteers to our “most wanted weeds” and teaches them how to submit survey reports. Trained volunteers work with a program coordinator to determine which trails they will survey, reporting surveyed trails back to CV and submitting reports/photos to botanists using the Wild Spotter app.
Program Coordinator: Judy Mitchell
Click here to fill out our volunteer application. A volunteer coordinator will then be in touch to discuss your interests, get you the appropriate paperwork, and connect you to the Invasive Weed Surveying Program Coordinator.
Invasive Weed Volunteers survey wilderness areas from June - September. Because survey areas are primarily high elevation, program dates may be impacted by late snow melt, early snow fall, or wildfires.
Invasive Weed Volunteers must attend the Invasive Weed Surveying course offered each spring. Because wilderness areas being surveyed change each year, the list of weeds changes as well.
Invasive Weed Surveying reports are submitted using the Wild Spotter App, so a smart phone or tablet is required. An all terrain vehicle may be needed to access more remote wilderness trails. We also recommend that all forest volunteers bring the 10 Essentials with them whenever they head out into the field: https://www.nps.gov/articles/10essentials.htm.
Volunteer Resources: