Waterton Lakes National Park

Volunteering

Volunteer Projects

Knapweed Rodeo
August 11, 2012

Howdy partner - help us wrangle up this Waterton weed!

• No experience necessary – just a willingness to help pick and bag knapweed
• Sign up in advance & get FREE day entry into Waterton Lakes National Park
• Volunteer for a half-day shift (or longer!)
• Great for families
• Prizes for rodeo events

Knapweed is an invasive plant that can take over native landscapes by releasing toxins from its roots and producing thousands of seeds. By pulling knapweed before it releases its seeds, we can keep this weed in check. Oh, and don't forget your cowboy hat! 

For more information, email Justin McKeown or phone (403)-859-5107.

Whitebark Pine Tree Planting

There are few greater experiences in Waterton than spending time in the mountains on a clear and sunny day in September. Come experience the majesty of autumn in Waterton while helping to restore a vital species.

Parks Canada staff are in a race against time to save whitebark pines. These slow-growing, long-lived trees occupy windswept rocky slopes in high-elevation forests throughout the Rocky Mountains. Despite their small numbers, they play a vital role in the ecosystem.

These important trees are in danger of completely disappearing from Waterton Lakes National Park, due to a combination of stressors: the invasive white pine blister rust, a history of fire suppression, and the threat of mountain pine beetles. This fall, come roll up your sleeves, enjoy the crisp mountain air and beautiful scenery and help plant whitebark pine in Waterton.

For more information, email Justin McKeown or phone (403)-859-5107.

Adopt-a-Patch: Protecting Wild Spaces 

Waterton may well be the wildflower capital of Canada. With over 1,000 vascular plants, including hundreds of colourful wildflowers, Waterton’s biodiversity is truly special. However, introduced invaders threaten our natural beauties. Each summer, dedicated park crews work hard to combat introduced invasive weeds, and you can help too.

Come work alongside our weed control specialists or bring a group and park staff will help you ‘adopt-a-patch’ of weeds to tackle. Your efforts will help to keep Waterton’s wildflowers blooming for visitors and the many animals, bugs, and birds that depend on them. Flexible opportunities for individuals and groups of all ages exist. You will be given free entry to the park on the day of your volunteer experience and will be encouraged to spend some time exploring or relaxing as well.

For more information, email Justin McKeown or phone (403)-859-5107.