Planting Native Seeds Volunteer Day at Rocky Mountain National Park

Project Description:

Work alongside Rocky Mountain National Park greenhouse staff to plant in our seed increase field! We will be establishing rows of native plants Heterotheca villosa (Hairy Goldenaster) and Anaphalis margaritacea (Pearly Everlasting). Later in the summer, staff and volunteers will collect seed from these plants to add to our seed mixes for use in native plant restoration projects all over the park. Dig into the soil and join our mission to preserve this park’s biodiversity!

What to Expect:

Planting will occur at Rocky’s native plant seed increase located at an elevation of around 8,500 ft. You will need to descend and ascend a moderately steep dirt road to access the seed increase. Planting will involve kneeling, stooping, bending over, and use of small hand tools. Light to moderate lifting of plant trays and pots will be required.

Water coolers will be available onsite for refills. Restrooms are a ¼ mile-walk away at Glacier Basin Campground. Be prepared for variable weather conditions (sun, wind, heat, cold, light rain).

Minimum age: 18 years

Maximum number of participants: 8

Date (weather permitting): Monday, June 15, 2026

Time: 9:00am – 3:30pm

Departure and return location: Please meet in the outdoor plaza in front of the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center. Volunteers will be driven into the park via shuttle van.

Work site: Rocky Mountain National Park Seed Increase (near Glacier Basin Campground)

Nearest bathroom: Glacier Basin Campground

What’s provided: Work gloves, sunscreen, kneeling pads

Gear to bring: Layers (it can be hot or snow, even on the same day), rain gear, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), gloves (if you prefer your own), day pack, lunch and snacks, water.

Note: Each date has a minimum requirement of 3 volunteers and a maximum of 8. If your desired date does not meet the minimum group requirement, we will try to reschedule you for another date.