Preserve Steward Program
Preserve Steward Program
Preserve Stewards help Palouse Land Trust care for our natural areas by checking in on preserves, observing conditions, and reporting issues. Regular visits help us identify maintenance needs and keep track of changes over time.
Getting Started
Complete your volunteer orientation. Learn about PLT, volunteer expectations, and how to report observations.
Select a preserve. Work with the Community Lands Steward to choose a preserve that fits your interests and availability.
Learn your preserve. Become familiar with its trails, access points, and any specific check-in instructions.
Conduct regular check-ins. Walk the preserve, observe conditions, and document anything that may need attention.
Record your hours. Submit volunteer hours within seven days of each visit and share relevant observations with PLT staff.
What to Look For
During your visits, watch for blocked trails, erosion, damaged signs, litter, invasive plants, wildlife activity, and other changes. Include photos and location details when possible.
You do not need to fix every issue yourself. Check with PLT staff before undertaking repairs, removing trees, or applying treatments beyond your training and authorization.
Field Resources
Idaho Wildlife: Learn about local wildlife and safe wildlife encounters.
Idaho Noxious Weed Field Guide: Help identify invasive plants.
USDA Forest Service Trail Maintenance Guide: Learn about trail maintenance, drainage, and erosion prevention.
Reporting Hours and Issues
After each visit, record your hours, the preserve you visited, and any observations that need follow-up. Report urgent safety concerns directly to PLT staff rather than relying only on routine reporting.
Preserves with Current Opportunities
