Join us in preserving wild spaces: become a volunteer!

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 Seed Collection

For reforestation and forest resiliency research

WCF members and volunteer crews work in close collaboration with researchers and the Forest Service to take horses deep into the backcountry to collect pinecones. We harvest pinecones from a number of species with a particular focus on studying trees with genetic resistance to diseases such as blister rust. 

The Forest Service uses the collected pinecones to grow seedlings that help reforest areas impacted by wildfires, disease, and other environmental disturbances. 

Trail Management

To preserve fragile forest ecosystems and wildlife habitat, prevent soil erosion, remove invasive species, and support public access to wild spaces

One of WCF’s main initiatives is assisting crews with trail maintenance which serves two important purposes. First, we ensure public access to wild spaces and second, we protect forest ecosystems from off-trail hiking that can crush fragile plants, disturb wildlife, and accelerate soil erosion. In alpine zones, even a single off-trail step can kill slow-growing lichens that require decades to recover.

By regularly clearing trails and installing infrastructure such as water bars, we help stabilize trails and soil. We also assist with the removal of invasive species such as cheatgrass and Scotch broom.

Deadfall Removal

A vital component of wildfire management 

Horses are exceptionally useful with deadfall removal and trail clearing by dragging large items off trail. Dead trees, brush, and overgrowth are easy wildfire fuel and clearing trails creates mini firebreaks that slow the spread of fire. 

Firefighters use trails to reach fire lines or stage equipment. A clogged trail can delay a hotshot crew, risking bigger burns.

This tactic was stressed following mega-fires like California’s 2021 Dixie Fire where unmaintained trails complicated containment. In addition to wildfire management, open trails also let rangers spot issues like illegal land usage, hunting, or tree die-off (e.g., bark beetle outbreaks) early.