Volunteer with Us

Step into a meaningful role. Protect the lands you care about.

Volunteers are vital to the success of HeadWaters Land Conservancy — from boots on the ground to outreach in the community, from office support to long-term land monitoring. If you have a bit of time, energy, and a desire to help conserve northeast Michigan’s forests, wetlands, and open spaces, we’d love to welcome you.

Our Volunteer Opportunities

1. Field Crew – Hands on the Land

Get outdoors and help us restore and maintain our preserves. Whether you’re planting native trees, removing invasive species, or building and maintaining trails, the field crew plays a critical role in protecting habitat and improving water quality.

Best if you’re comfortable outdoors, moving around, and working as part of a team.

2. Land Steward – Conservation Easement Monitoring

Join our Land Steward team and act as the “eyes and ears” of our permanent land-protection efforts. Land Stewards visit assigned properties at least 3–4 times a year, document conditions, monitor for potential issues, and work closely with our stewardship staff. Training and support provided.

Best if you enjoy hiking, observing details, and working independently.

3. Office Volunteer – Behind-the-Scenes Support

Prefer working indoors? We need help with light filing, organizing materials, data entry, mailings, and other administrative tasks. Your support keeps our programs running smoothly so we can spend more time in the field protecting land.

Best if you’re organized, reliable, and comfortable working with paperwork or computers.

4. Outreach Ambassador – Spread the Word

Help us build community connection and understanding. Outreach Ambassadors represent HeadWaters at public events, man our information booth, engage with visitors, and share the story of land protection. You’ll be a public face for our mission and help bring more people into the conversation.

Best if you enjoy engaging with people, sharing ideas, and attending events.

Why Volunteer With Us?

• Make a real difference for habitat, water quality, and scenic lands in northeast Michigan.
• Work side-by-side with a dedicated team of staff and other passionate volunteers.
• Choose a role that matches your interests, schedule, and comfort level.
• Gain experience in conservation, land stewardship, event outreach, and nonprofit operations.
• Connect with the land you love and become part of a community committed to protecting it.

How to Get Started

1. Click the Apply Now button and fill out our volunteer application.
2. We’ll reach out to schedule a short orientation and discussion of roles.
3. Choose your role, attend a brief training or onboarding, and begin making an impact.

Time Commitment & Flexibility

Some roles (e.g., Land Steward) ask for a baseline commitment (3–4 visits/year) and occasional field work. Others (like office support or outreach) can be more flexible – a few hours here and there as your schedule allows. We value any amount of time you can offer.

Questions?

Contact Us:
Email: land@headwatersconservancy.org
Phone: 989-731-0573

Thank you for your interest and for helping safeguard Michigan’s natural heritage. We look forward to working with you!