Trail Stewards Volunteer Training

Pottawattamie County Conservation is in need of trail stewards who aren't afraid to get dirty while blazing and maintaining four-season recreational trails. Will you answer our call?

Join the Loess Hills Nordic Ski Patrol and take part in hands-on training where you'll gain the skills needed to be a specialized Trail Steward volunteer on Saturday, April 20th from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Hitchcock Nature Center. 

This specialized training event will help you gain the skills necessary to support Pottawattamie County Conservation with trail maintenance at Hitchcock Nature Center. Supported by the Loess Hills Nordic Ski Patrol, you'll learn about the science behind trail blazing and maintenance, which trails need your help the most, and get a little dirty while working on a trail segment of Badger Ridge Trail. Lunch will be provided. 

What is the Trail Stewards Volunteer Program?

Trail Stewards is a new volunteer program designed by the Loess Hills Nordic Ski Patrol and Pottawattamie County Conservation. The goal of the program is to improve trail conditions at Hitchcock Nature Center, providing a better experience for visitors while preventing erosion and protecting the ecology of the globally significant Loess Hills. 

Is Trail Stewards Right for Me?

Trail Stewards volunteers should be 18 years or older and comfortable working outdoors, handling tools including shovels and pruners, and hiking distances of one mile or longer. This volunteer opportunity is perfect for individuals who enjoy working alone or in small groups of two to four. Volunteers should be willing and able to commit to being a part of the Trail Stewards group for at least one year and have flexibility in their scheduling to volunteer their time when trail maintenance conditions are right, for example, within two days of rainfall. This program is designed for volunteers to set their own scheduling as trail maintenance conditions permit and operate with autonomy, with at least one group maintenance project planned throughout the year. While not required, Trail Stewards are encouraged to attend the park's annual trail blazing volunteer event on National Trails Day, which is June 1st.