State Natural Areas Volunteer Program

Help us care for some of our state's most pristine public lands, State Natural Areas (SNA). Encourage native plants and animals to thrive by cutting brush, controlling invasive species, collecting seeds, monitoring rare species, and preparing fire breaks. Show up for a day or become a steward responsible for all volunteer activities at an SNA. Any level of participation is encouraged and no experience is necessary to start volunteering.

Learn more

Browse the Volunteer Handbook for information on the program
Read stories about our work in our 2023 annual report, 2022 annual report and 2021 annual report
Find training opportunities for first aid, chainsaw safety, and more
Or secure volunteer gear
Discover additional DNR volunteering opportunities

Join us at a workday

Workdays are one of the main ways volunteers accomplish tasks. They occur throughout the year at different SNAs. They are a great way to get some exercise, have fun, learn something new and see if you’ve got what it takes to enjoy restoration. Come join us for a workday to see for yourself. You can also learn about individual volunteer opportunities.

With everything going on in the world it’s nice to take a break from it all for a couple of hours and breathe in the fresh air. I’m so glad I started volunteering because I’ve met some incredibly inspiring people who know a lot about rare and indigenous plants. I recently became certified for chainsaw use on DNR lands and have been enjoying practicing my new skills.

—Travis, SNA volunteer

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Expect to do some walking off-trail, do some physical activity, and wear clothes that can be beaten up. Good items to bring are drinking water, gloves, safety glasses, sunscreen, and bug spray in summer/fall. We’ll typically have enough tools for you to use. Although different sites have different approaches to cancellation a decision is made by at least two hours before the day. You can RSVP to get updates or ask the contact person about the status 2 hours before: moderate to heavy rain, snow/ice storms, extreme cold, or extreme heat.

Receive email updates on upcoming workdays

We have divided the state into volunteer regions. Receive email updates on upcoming volunteer workdays in the region. Sign up for as many regions as you'd like.