Volunteering

The types of work a volunteer can perform are many and varied; the only tasks a volunteer cannot carry out are those associated with law enforcement. Your talents, skills, and preferences help match you with a role that fulfills the mission of the Forest Service. The commitment you make is up to you. You may volunteer on a part-time or full-time basis. Participation can be on a one-time basis, or over several months, seasons, or year-round. Training may be provided to you if the project requires it.

Please contact a Ranger District Office to learn more about the volunteer opportunities on the Gila National Forest. Volunteer applications may be requested by calling 575-388-8201.

Some truly great people are helping to make the Gila National Forest an amazing place.

Over 221 volunteers contributed 14,530 hours of time to help enrich the forest. Thank to their collaborative efforts, we can better manage natural resources, promote the forest as a destination and strengthen local communities.  By working together, we are making Gila National Forest a better place.  From October 1, 2017 – September 30, 2018 the Gila National Forest hosted 221 volunteers who contributed 14,530 hours of work to improving public lands.

Gila Partners and Volunteering Opportunities

Visit the websites of Gila's volunteer partner organizations to learn how you can get involved. New volunteers are welcome! 

Gila Back Country Horsemen

• Trail projects in Gila Wilderness, Black Range, Aldo Leopold Wilderness, and Gila National Forest near Silver City
• All trail users welcome
• Check the website for projects

New Mexico Volunteer for the Outdoors 

• Trail and stewardship projects across the state of New Mexico and throughout the Gila National Forest 
• Check the website for projects

Continental Divide Trail Coalition 

• Trail Projects on the CDT and CDT alternate on the Gila National Forest
• Check the website for projects

Southern New Mexico Trail Alliance 

• Trail projects are focused in the Black Range, Aldo Leopold Wilderness, and east side of the Gila Wilderness

Conservation Legacy 

• Trail work throughout the Gila National Forest 
• Hiring young adults

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument 

• Trail and stewardship projects on Gila Wilderness Trails near the Cliff Dwellings National Monument
• See volunteer.gov for volunteer information

Heart of the Gila 

• Trail and stewardship projects in Gila Wilderness 

The Gila National Forest would also like to thank Western New Mexico University, Silver City Bike Group, Aldo Leopold Charter School, and Furman University's Wild Semester for their work on the Gila National Forest trails.