Where you’ll be:
Located about an hour southwest of Denver, Colorado, you’ll work near Kelsey Campground - one of Buffalo Creek Recreation Area’s two campsites. With 17 campsites, the area offers access to a 40+ mile trail system, including popular trails like Little Scraggy, Shinglemill, Buffalo Creek Loop, and the Colorado Trail. The campground is a hub for hikers and bikers looking for a weekend getaway.
This area experiences medium to heavy usage during the prime visitation in the summer months.
What you'll do:
Following the completion of the Kelsey Gun fuels reduction project in the fall of 2021, the area has seen a surge in noxious weeds, particularly Common Mullein and Canadian Thistle. This project involves pulling these weeds in the treatment unit nearest to Kelsey Campground and bagging them for removal.
Why it's important:
This effort is crucial for enhancing landscape resiliency, forest health, and restoring native species. The current infestation is somewhat contained, allowing for eradication. With limited USFS staff available for this project, volunteer support is vital for its completion. Immediate removal of invasives provides a visual improvement; over time, native plants will have the opportunity to reestablish, revitalizing the natural balance. Join us in preserving the beauty and health of this scenic area.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Ages 8+
8 is the minimum age. Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older on single-day projects.
If you are a parent looking to sign your child up for this opportunity, please create a separate account on their behalf, and then register them through that account.
Please click here for comprehensive instructions on how to do this.
This process is intended to be as easy for you as possible while helping to ensure that the necessary paperwork and information is completed. Thank you for taking these steps, and for your understanding.
Project Difficulty:
This project is considered easy to moderate in nature. Check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.
Accessibility Factors:
Vehicle accessibility: 2WD accessible, access will be along pavement with parking at the Kelsey Campground or along CR 126. Plenty of parking is available at Kelsey Campground.
Other notes: The work site is accessible via a short walk from the parking area. There are bathrooms on-site.
