RMNP Nursery Winterization Volunteer Day

Help Rocky Mountain National Park greenhouse staff get our nursery ready for winter! Volunteers will help remove shade cloth structures and tuck our plants into their beds with mulch to prepare them for the colder months.

What to Expect:

Volunteers removing shade cloths will need to be able to stand on a ladder. Mulching will involve kneeling, stooping, bending over, use of hand tools, and pushing wheelbarrows. Moving plants will involve light to heavy lifting of plant trays and pots. Don’t worry if you are unable to complete one of these tasks – they will be divided among staff and volunteers.

Water will be available onsite for refills. Restrooms are a short walk away in the natural resources building.

Expect the unexpected with fall weather – it could be sunny, windy, hot, cold, snowing, and/or raining on the same day, so prepare accordingly.

Where to Meet: We will meet in the outdoor plaza in front of Beaver Meadows Visitor Center. From there we will walkabout ¼ mile to the greenhouse down an asphalt path on a gentle to moderate hillside. The path is rough and uneven in places. The greenhouse is located at an elevation of around 7,600 ft.

What’s Provided: Work gloves, sunscreen, electrolyte mix, water, kneeling pads

What to Bring: Layers, long sleeves, sturdy shoes, rain gear, sun protection (hat, sunglasses), gloves (if you prefer your own), day pack, lunch and snacks, water bottle.

Minimum age: 18 years

Work site: Rocky Mountain National Park greenhouse and nursery

Nearest bathroom: Office building near greenhouse

Questions? Please reach out to the park volunteer office at [email protected] or 970-586-1330.

All Photos: courtesy NPS

Above - Rocky Mountain National Park greenhouse exterior and nursery

Below - NPS staff spread mulch in the nursery area.

Bottom - Three people remove shade structures and cloth.