NMVFO plans 20+ volunteer work projects each year. Click here for a printable overview of the 2024 project season, and check back often for additional information posted as it becomes available. To receive updates and detailed information about upcoming projects and events, be sure to sign up for the NMVFO newsletter on the Home page. Public land agencies that are interested in proposing a project should contact our Projects Team (projects@nmvfo.org) for more information and our easy-to-complete project proposal form.
If you’re new to NMVFO, be sure to visit our FAQ page to learn more about what to expect on a project. Project leaders are always happy to answer your questions about specific projects. Have a non-project related question? Send us a message from our Contact page. Pets are not allowed on any NMVFO projects. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or other legal guardian
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Middle Fork Backpack (Gila NF) – CANCELED DUE TO FIRE DANGER
May 26, 2022 @ 8:00 AM - May 31, 2022 @ 3:00 PM
Description: New Mexico Volunteers for the Outdoors, Back Country Horsemen (BCH), and Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC) will collaborate on a 6-day project on the middle fork of the Gila River with a half day during the project to explore or relax. Volunteers will be able to address 5.5 miles of corridor, cairns and tread work as this popular Gila Alternate route winds along the banks of the Gila with towering cliff faces overhead. This is a popular route for locals, thru-hikers and equestrians to experience the beauty of the Gila Wilderness. Post-fire flooding and extensive deferred maintenance have caused the trail to braid along the riverside, causing travelers to bushwhack through sensitive river landscapes.
Be prepared to get your feet wet daily, since the trail crosses the river frequently in this tight canyon. Tools will be provided and will be packed in by horses. Breakfasts and dinners will be provided by BCH. Volunteers are asked to bring their own snacks and lunches.
Current CDTC Covid protocols will be observed on this partnered project.
Volunteers will arrive the morning of May 26th or can camp at the trailhead the night before, meeting between 8:15-8:30 AM for a gear check and some paperwork before the 8 mile hike to base camp.
Click here for a detailed project description and gear list.
Difficulty: 
Group Size: 15
Sign up below by Wednesday, May 18. One person per signup.
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at Volunteer FAQ, or email the project leader.
Please read our Volunteer Guidelines before signing up for this project.