Volunteer with DALC!
Be part of the hands-on work that keeps the Driftless thriving.
Every month, we roll up our sleeves together to care for Driftless preserves and the Driftless Trail. These volunteer workdays keep prairies booming, trails open, and wildlife thriving. We need you at our side!
Workdays vary across different habitats throughout Southwest Wisconsin. Whether you are removing invasive species, maintaining trails, or collecting seeds, your time and energy make a huge impact. The Driftless needs us now.
We welcome you. No experience needed. Just bring your love for the outdoors and a willingness to pitch in. Connect with nature, meet great people, and leave a legacy for future generations.
Nature Preserve Workdays
Location: Wild Oaks Preserve, 277 Brunson Rd, Belleville, WI
Upcoming Dates: 1st and 3rd Saturdays (see calendar)
Time: 9am – 1pm
Explore the beauty of our newest nature preserve, just north of New Glarus! Journey into the valley to learn firsthand land stewardship and restoration in a variety of Wisconsin’s natural communities, including oak savannas, wetlands, dry prairies, and more. Workday activities here are just as diverse as the wildlife that calls this valley home. These activities include invasive species management, prescribed fire, trash and debris clean-up, plant and animal surveys, and numerous other fun and exciting projects.
The terrain at Wild Oaks can be steep and uneven. You are encouraged to work at your own pace and take plenty of breaks. All the necessary tools and equipment will be provided, but please bring layers, water, a snack, and gloves.
If you’re planning to join a workday, please sign up here or contact site steward Fil Sanna at 608-636-6222 or filsanna@yahoo.com
Activities change periodically, so for the latest update, contact Fil.
Location: Sardeson Forest Preserve, western edge of Mineral Point on Betty Lane
Upcoming Dates: 3rd Sundays (see calendar)
Time: 9am – 1pm
Wake up early, strap on those hiking boots, and join us as we steward this small but mighty nature preserve located just outside Mineral Point! Activities at the Sardeson Preserve include invasive species management, trail maintenance, and of course the occasional hike to enjoy the amazing exposed rock features located just a stone’s throw from the trail. These workdays can be a great opportunity to not only learn about local Wisconsin natural communities, but also to collect excess natural materials that can be utilized in artwork of all kinds.
Sardeson Preserve is steep and rocky in places. You are encouraged to work at your own pace and take plenty of breaks. All the necessary tools and equipment will be provided, but please bring layers, water, a snack, and gloves.
If you’re planning to join a workday, please contact DALC at info@driftlessconservancy.org.
Location: Erickson Conservation Area. The main entrance to the property is from the Argyle Legion Community Park, 14567 WI-78, Argyle, WI.
Upcoming Dates: 1st Wednesdays (see calendar)
Time: 9am – 1pm
Join us as we protect the wetland wonders of the Erickson Conservation Area located right in the heart of Argyle! Activities include invasive species management, maintaining structures such as boardwalks, birdhouses, and signage, and exploring further into the wetlands to conduct the occasional rare species survey.
The wetland can be (no surprise) wet! Plan on wearing rubber boots. You are encouraged to work at your own pace and take plenty of breaks. All the necessary tools and equipment will be provided, but please bring layers, water, a snack, and gloves.
If you’re planning to join a workday, please contact DALC at info@driftlessconservancy.org.
Driftless Trail Workdays
Location: Taliesin segment, Spring Green
Upcoming Dates: 3rd Fridays, April-October
Time: 9am – 1pm
Help build new Driftless Trail segments as we work to expand this exciting project! In 2025, we are focusing on the Welsh Hills segment at Taliesin, the estate of Frank Lloyd Wright. This is fun and rewarding work! We provide tools and training. Please register in advance for these workdays by going to our calendar and selecting the date you plan to attend. You will receive details via email prior to the workday.
Location: varies
Upcoming Dates: 1st Sundays
Time: 9am – 1pm
Help maintain over five miles of beautiful Driftless Trail segments! Locations vary across our open trail segments. This is fun and rewarding work! We provide tools and training. Please register in advance for these workdays by going to our calendar and selecting the date you plan to attend. You will receive details via email prior to the workday.
Can’t Make It to a Workday? You Can Still Support Volunteer Efforts.
Not everyone can make it to a workday, but your monthly gift helps shape the Driftless all the same. With just $10/month, you can become a Pathmaker, supporting the creation of high-quality, environmentally sensitive trails for all to enjoy.
Your contribution fuels every step, from planning and tools to snacks and signage. Whether you give $10 or $100 monthly, you’re helping turn rugged terrain into lasting pathways for generations to explore.
“Everyone is so welcoming, and there’s no pressure. Everyone works at their own pace. You just show up, and they teach you everything you need to know.”
A Fresh Start on the Land: Where to Hike This New Year’s Day
Get outside and explore the Driftless Area this winter! From scenic overlooks to forested trails and prairie remnants, our preserves and Driftless Trail segments offer easy-to-moderate hikes with stunning views and abundant wildlife.
Hike Safely in the Driftless This Season
Enjoy the beauty of the Driftless this fall while staying safe during hunting season. Explore Driftless Area Land Conservancy’s open trail segments, including Phoebe Point and Welsh Hills, and learn key tips for hiking safely in the Driftless.
Build Deeper Connections with Nature this Earth Month
Shinrin-yoku, the practice translated as Forest Bathing, is an activity that invites us to slow down and really connect with nature, the experience that connects us all. It became popular in Japan in the 1980’s during the technology boom. With people working in...