Over the past 15 years Northwest Connections has worked with numerous volunteers. For many years we ran the Wildlands Volunteer Corps for teenagers, an award winning program to scaffold youth into conservation programs. Currently, we are working in cooperation with other agencies and organizations to provide opportunities for motivated volunteers. Please notify us if you are interested in learning more about volunteer positions with Northwest Connections.


Bear DNA Research
Hike to remote locations to collect bear hair for genetic analysis. From a few hair follicles left behind by bears scratching against trees, a lot of information can be found: species, individual identity, gender, and possibly how the individual is related to other bears. NwC staff will teach you the techniques for identifying and collecting bear hair as well as how to travel safely in bear country. You'll learn to identify bear tracks and other bear sign as well as investigating the natural history of bear habitat.

Fish Surveys
Accompany NwC staff as they survey local streams for fish. NwC is gathering data about fish population distribution and abundance to support recovery of declining native fish populations. Non-native fish can be a significant threat to our native fisheries. You will help record data about each fish collected and help return each fish safely to the water. NwC staff will teach you how to identify different species of fish, as well as how to gather information about each individual. You will get to explore streams and their riparian areas and learn where fish hang out!

Photo credits: grizzly bear - Derek Reich, Zooprax Productions; bull trout - Karen Nichols