Get Involved
Volunteer and become a steward of our public lands.
Support Our Mission
Your donation helps protect fragile ecosystems.
Stewardship of the Columbia River Gorge
Gorge Refuge Stewards is committed to the long-term protection and restoration of refuge lands within the Columbia River Gorge, one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the Pacific Northwest. Our organization works in close collaboration with land managers, conservation professionals, and community members to ensure that these landscapes remain resilient, accessible, and ecologically functional.
The Gorge supports a wide range of habitats, from oak woodlands and grasslands to wetlands and forested slopes. These environments provide critical habitat for native plants, migratory birds, amphibians, and mammals. Stewardship efforts focus on protecting these systems from invasive species, erosion, and human impact while promoting responsible public access.
Detailed information about our conservation approach and organizational structure is available on the About Gorge Refuge Stewards page.
Community, Volunteers, and Public Engagement
Volunteers are central to everything we do. Each year, hundreds of individuals contribute their time and skills to support restoration projects, habitat monitoring, trail maintenance, and educational outreach. These efforts not only improve ecological conditions but also foster a shared sense of responsibility for the lands we steward.
Gorge Refuge Stewards provides training, guidance, and ongoing support to ensure that volunteer activities are safe, meaningful, and effective. Opportunities are available for individuals, families, students, and organized groups.
Learn more about how to participate on our Volunteer and Volunteer Opportunities pages.
Education, Youth Programs, and Creative Engagement
Education plays a critical role in long-term conservation success. Gorge Refuge Stewards offers programs designed to connect people of all ages with refuge lands through hands-on learning, guided experiences, and creative exploration.
Youth-focused initiatives encourage observation, curiosity, and environmental awareness. Programs such as our photography contests invite young participants to explore refuge landscapes and share their perspectives on conservation.
Current and past youth initiatives can be explored on the Youth Photo Contest page.
Projects, Partnerships, and Ongoing Impact
Our restoration and stewardship projects address both immediate needs and long-term ecological goals. Activities include invasive species removal, native plant restoration, habitat enhancement, and collaboration with partner organizations.
By working across disciplines and jurisdictions, Gorge Refuge Stewards helps ensure that conservation efforts are coordinated, adaptive, and effective.
A detailed overview of active and completed projects is available on our Projects page.