What kind of work can I expect on a SBFC trip?

As a volunteer with SBFC, you will primarily engage in trail maintenance activities. This includes tasks such as clearing downed trees from the trail, brushing back overgrown vegetation, cleaning drains and water bars, and occasionally constructing and repairing rock structures. We use traditional tools including  crosscut saws, axes, Pulaskis, hand saws, shovels, and loppers. A SBFC crew leader will guide you in proper tool usage to meet U.S. Forest Service standards. Volunteers are also expected to help with camp chores, such as cooking and cleaning up after meals.

What kind of supervision will we have on a project?

During your volunteer project with SBFC, you will be supervised by an experienced SBFC staff member who will lead and train you throughout the project. Our crew leaders are USFS crosscut certified and have extensive experience in trail maintenance. They have also received thorough training in safety protocols for camping in bear country, Wilderness First Aid, and Leave No Trace ethics, ensuring a safe and responsible experience on the trail.

what does a typical day look like on a volunteer project?

6:30-7:30 am            hot coffee/tea, breakfast, pack a lunch, and fill your water bottle for the day
8:00 am                     morning stretch circle and safety talk
8:30 am                       hit the trail; hike to the nearby worksite and begin working
10:00 am                     mid-morning 15-minute break
Noon                      lunch in a shady spot
12:30-2:30 pm           work
2:30 pm                     afternoon 15-minute break
2:45-4:30 pm            continue to work
4:30 pm                     arrive back at camp for snacks, swimming, relaxing, fishing
6:00 pm                      dinner and cleanup
6:45 pm-on                 campfire, relaxing