Where You’ll Be:
This project will take place within the South Platte Ranger District, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service. Forest Service staff are currently surveying lands throughout the district to identify the highest-priority forest health treatment area for this work. The final project location will be selected based on current conditions, ecosystem needs, and wildfire risk.
Nearest Town: Pine, CO
Volunteers will receive updated information about the project location as the project date approaches, once the site has been confirmed. Please be sure to register so you receive all project details and logistics as they become available.
What You’ll Do:
Volunteers will support forest health management by felling and piling overgrown trees in areas where dense vegetation creates unsafe conditions for the ecosystem and increases wildfire risk. Work will most likely take place on steep and rocky terrain, making chainsaws and hand saws the most effective tools for this project.
We are seeking both volunteer sawyers and swampers. Certified sawyers will fell trees, while swampers will assist with clearing, stacking material, and building burn piles. These piles will be burned later in the season by land managers when conditions are safe. This hands-on work helps restore a healthier forest structure and improves overall wildfire resilience.
Why It Matters:
Many forests have grown dense after decades of fire suppression, making them more vulnerable to severe wildfires and ecological stress. By removing excess trees and reducing hazardous fuels, this project helps restore healthier forest conditions, lowers wildfire risk, and supports safer, more effective land management. Your work directly contributes to long-term forest resilience while protecting nearby communities, wildlife habitat, and recreational landscapes.
Eligibility Requirements:
Ages 18+
For this project, we need a mix of A- and B-certified Chainsaw Sawyers. If you are certified, please include this in the Comments of your registration and send your certificate to the project manager. ALL SAWYERS MUST HOLD A CURRENT FIRST AID AND CPR CERTIFICATION IN ORDER TO OPERATE A SAW. Want to get certified? Visit our Training Calendar for upcoming training opportunities.
Project Difficulty:
This project is rated difficult. Check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.
Physical Considerations: Expect physically demanding work, including moving heavy materials (such as logs and branches) and working on uneven terrain. Volunteers will hike over uneven terrain to find a suitable work area that is far enough from other active sawyers.
Access Factors:
Vehicle Access: Volunteers will be able to drive and park close to the worksite.
If you enjoy chainsaw projects, either as a certified sawyer or a support volunteer, you can view similar projects here.
