Volunteer

Volunteers Make the Difference!

Our organization got its start in 1990 with a group of concerned citizen volunteers that worked quietly, but effectively, for several years to protect much of the Piedmont that our community enjoys today. That volunteer spirit and commitment to the organization continues to grow, helping to enhance and strengthen our land conservation and education projects. A special thank you to all of the volunteers who have given their time and energy over and over again to help Piedmont Land Conservancy reach our conservation goals.

If you are interested in volunteering with PLC please fill out this quick and easy form to share your interests and info and you will be alerted when we have opportunities!

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer at the Emily Allen Wildflower Preserve:

PLC sincerely appreciates all the Friends Volunteers who donate their time and energy each spring and fall to work in the Emily H. Allen Wildflower Preserve, Friendship Garden. With their help, we are able to maintain the beauty of this 6-acre wildflower garden located near Historic Bethabara in Winston-Salem. Under the permanent protection of Piedmont Land Conservancy, the Friendship Garden is home to a unique collection of over 500 species of native plants.

If you would like to spend time with like-minded people in a truly unique garden setting, please join us for spring or fall workdays. For more information on volunteering in the Friendship Garden, contact Janice Lancaster at jlancaster@piedmontland.org.

Look for upcoming workdays:

Volunteer to Build Trails and Maintain Preserves:

PLC offers trail building and trail and preserve maintenance at the preserves we manage and are creating. This usually involves building new trails, doing maintenance on existing trails, cutting back logs or branches encroaching on the trail, removing invasive species, or picking up trash and debris.

Frequently Asked Questions about Trail Workdays:

When can I volunteer?

Our primary volunteer season runs from the first cool front of fall until the first freeze of winter. We pick back up in the spring until it gets too hot. We take a break in the summer due to thick vegetation, bugs, and heat. Check our Facebook events page for updates and cancellations.

What should I wear?

Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. We recommend sturdy shoes or boots, long pants, and layers to adjust to changing weather. We provide extra gloves if you don’t have your own.

What should I bring?

Water: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Tools: We provide tools, but some volunteers like to use their own like hoes, Mcleods, rakes, hand saws, shovels, clippers, or mattocks.

Work gloves: We have extras if needed.

Backpack: A small pack to carry your gear and supplies.

Bug spray: Essential for keeping bugs away.

Snacks: Keep your energy up with some snacks.

Grocery bags: Great for packing out trash and litter.

Toilet paper and Ziplock bag: Since there are no restrooms on PLC nature preserves, please pack out any waste.

What can I expect?

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and spend time in nature! Workday tasks will vary. You might be clearing debris, building new trails, or making improvements to existing ones. Your efforts are crucial to maintaining our trails and ensuring they’re accessible to the community.

How do I stay updated on weather and potential cancellations?

We’ll post any weather updates or event cancellations on the date specific Facebook event page. Check there before heading out to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort.

Are there any age restrictions?

Volunteers under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult. Some tasks may have specific age requirements due to the use of tools.

Do I need previous experience?

No experience is necessary! We welcome volunteers of all skill levels. Our team will provide guidance and training on-site.

How do I sign up?

Check our Facebook events page or website for upcoming volunteer opportunities and sign up for the ones that fit your schedule. If you do not have facebook, please email adraut@piedmontland.org to RSVP.

Can I bring a group to volunteer?

Absolutely! We love having groups join us. Please contact us in advance so we can plan accordingly. Info@piedmontland.org

What if I can't make it to a scheduled event?

If you signed up and can’t make it, please let us know by emailing adraut@piedmontland.org. This helps us manage our resources and plan the work accordingly.

General Office Help:

We periodically need people to help with odds and ends such as mailings, research, phone calls, and all sorts of various administrative tasks. It might not always be the most glamorous work, but it is a critical part of our organization and makes a big difference. There is an ebb and flow to this type of work, often depending on the season, and we like to have a pool of reliable folks to call as needed.

Events & Outings:

Piedmont Land Conservancy hosts events ranging from multi-farm tours to monthly outings designed to connect people of all ages with nature. The best aspect about volunteering for PLC events is that they are ever-changing, as are the volunteer needs. If you want to take photos of a farm tour, pick up fresh strawberries for an outing, help lead an environmental education session, or just serve as an extra set of hands in general – we can surely find a fit for you at some of our events.

Community Outreach Volunteers:

Community Outreach Volunteers help our staff carry out our vision of educating the community about the importance of land protection, including wildlife habitats, local farms and food, clean water, and connecting people to nature. Opportunities include assisting with special events, presenting to community groups, tabling at various events, and/or contributing writing, photography, and video projects for our outreach and marketing efforts.

Connect with us:

Support Piedmont Land Conservancy

Help us protect more special places, like Wells Knob, by making a donation.