Volunteer to Protect Native Ecosystems in Rocky's Kawuneeche Valley

Rocky Mountain National Park needs your help! Join us this summer for a hands-on day, removing invasive plant species to help restore the park's native vegetation.

Invasive plants are a persistent threat in RMNP, crowding out native species and disrupting the wildlife that depends on them for food and habitat. The most effective tool we have against them? People willing to get their hands dirty! Your physical effort directly translates into healthier ecosystems and biodiversity that will help protect the park for generations to come.

Alongside park staff, you'll learn to identify invasive species and master proper removal techniques, skills you can carry with you long after the day ends. Expect a full, active day outdoors on varied terrain, but know that every plant pulled is a genuine, measurable difference made for the landscape you're helping protect.

This is demanding, rewarding work, and it matters. Be part of the effort to preserve the natural beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park. Sign up today!

There is no fee to participate in this volunteer work day.

What to Expect:

Minimum age: 18 years

Time: 9:00am - 3:00pm. Volunteers should plan to stay for the full duration of this event.

Parking/meeting location: Please meet in the parking lot of the Kawuneeche Visitor Center.

Work site: Sites will be located around the Kawuneeche Visitor Center, employee housing, and facilities/maintenance yards. The project sites are within walking distance of the Visitor Center.

Nearest bathroom: Bathrooms can be accessed at the Kawuneeche Visitor Center.

What to bring: Layers for rapidly changing weather, rain gear, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), long sleeve shirt and long pants, sturdy close-toed shoes, lunch and snacks, at least 2 liters of water per person, gloves (if you prefer your own), and a day pack to hold everything.

Physical expectations: Manual removal of invasive species is moderately strenuous, with the entire workday spent on-foot, and potentially walking distances that can add up to several miles in montane meadows, forests, and other front country locations. Plant removal will utilize hand tools such as shovels and pruners to dig out plants and remove seed heads. Participants should expect to be out for the entire time in variable weather conditions, from hot temperatures in direct sunlight to cold and windy conditions. Events may be cancelled or shortened if weather conditions become a risk to human health and safety. Please be prepared with a daypack containing everything you will need for the day.