Put Your Hands in the Soil
Join hundreds of volunteers who protect Door County's wild places — one workday, one trail, one restored shoreline at a time.
© Tawnie Perkovich
Why Volunteer with DCLT?
Conservation isn't something that happens behind closed doors. It happens in the field — pulling garlic mustard from forest floors, building boardwalks over fragile wetlands, counting nesting birds at dawn.
When you volunteer with Door County Land Trust, you become part of something tangible. You'll see the land change under your hands. You'll learn the names of plants you've walked past for years. And you'll work alongside neighbors who care about the same places you do.
No special skills required. Just a willingness to show up.
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- hours contributed annually
- active volunteers
- preserves maintained
Ways to Get Involved
Whether you have a few hours or a few days, there's a place for you.
Preserve Workdays
Hands-on habitat restoration. Pull invasive species, plant native seedlings, maintain trails. No experience needed.
Time: 2–4 hours, typically Tuesdays
Best for: Anyone who wants to work outdoors
Trail Stewards
Adopt a trail section. Walk it regularly, report issues, and perform light maintenance.
Time: 2–4 hours/month, flexible
Best for: Regular hikers, retirees, solo volunteers
Citizen Science
Monitor wildlife, track invasive species, or document plant communities. Training provided.
Time: Varies by program (seasonal)
Best for: Birders, educators, detail-oriented folks
Event Support
Help at community events — trail walks, educational programs, fundraisers. Greet guests, set up displays, guide hikes.
Time: Event-based, 2–6 hours
Best for: Social volunteers, those new to DCLT
Mailing Workdays
All our mailings are lovingly assembled by volunteers. Join a mailing party to fold, stuff, and label the letters and newsletters that keep Door County connected to its land.
Time: Scheduled mailing parties, a few hours
Best for: Social volunteers who enjoy working as a group
Photography
Document our preserves, events, and restoration work. Images used in communications and fundraising.
Time: Self-directed
Best for: Photographers who want their work to matter
"Every time I come out, I learn something new about this land. And I leave feeling like I actually did something that matters."
— Mary K., Fish Creek · Volunteer since 2021
What to Expect
Your first workday is easy.
Show up at the preserve, sign in, and we'll match you with a task that fits your comfort level. Tools, gloves, and water provided. Wear clothes that can get dirty.
No long-term commitment required.
Come once or come every month — whatever works for your life. We're grateful for any time you can give.
You'll learn something.
Our staff and experienced volunteers love sharing knowledge. Expect to leave knowing more about native plants, restoration ecology, or Door County's natural history.
All ages welcome.
Many workdays are family-friendly. Youth under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. Some tasks require training and are adults-only.
Ready to Dig In?
Let us know your interests and availability. We'll reach out with opportunities that match.
