Tonto National Forest has volunteer steward openings for the Four Peaks and Superstition Wilderness areas of the Mesa Ranger District.
“The district is operating at reduced staffing levels, so wilderness stewards provide an invaluable service to the district by serving as hosts at trailheads and providing hiker assistance,” district ranger Gary Hanna said in a news release. “With more than 250 miles of trails, and portions of three wilderness areas to manage, our wilderness stewards provide a critical service to the hiking community.”
According to the release, volunteer stewards wear Forest Service uniforms and serve as the “eyes and ears” of the district on trails in the Superstition Wilderness, one of the Forest Service’s most popular areas.
Volunteers receive in-depth training about the forest and their duties. Prospective stewards can learn more at the Volunteer Open House 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Oct. 20 at the Mesa Ranger District office, 5140 E. Ingram Street, Mesa.
Volunteer applications are available at www.mrdvolunteers.org online or by calling (480) 610-3300.
• A Helping Hand is our weekly spotlight on a volunteer opportunity in the East Valley. Find other ways to help your community at www.volunteermatch.org.
