Volunteer

As a Friends of Black Rock volunteer you are an integral part of the future health of Black Rock Desert and High Rock Canyon – Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area. 

Our conservation projects and programs are a great way to explore, connect with new and old friends, and give back in a safe zone with our stewardship team. Volunteering is the perfect excuse to head out into some of Nevada’s most spectacular back-country you might not otherwise see. Our events in Reno are a great way to meet new people and to get to know Friends better, too!

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All of our Volunteer Opportunities start with a brief Questionnaire.

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Fly Ranch Nature Walks – Become an assistant Docent!

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday every weekend for approximately 3-3 1/2 hours-except holidays, for dates look at our calendar.

Nature Walks traverse through two distinct and separate areas of the 3,800-acre Fly Ranch, totaling roughly two miles. Participants will be accompanied by knowledgeable docents to learn more about the flora, fauna, and natural resources as well as history of the greater Black Rock Desert area.

Participants enjoy an immersive experience in a dynamic environment. There are three geysers on the property including the stunning Fly Geyser, a unique and iconic geothermal geyser that constantly sprays, depositing minerals, and enabling the growth of multi-colored algae on its surrounding natural terraces.

IMPORTANT: You must have attended Fly Ranch Docent Volunteer orientation, trainings and meetings, and have current Leave No Trace training (Wilderness First Aid and CPR experience is encouraged) to sign up as a Lead Docent

Fly Ranch Sign Up


National Public Lands Day-Soldier Meadows Clean Up 

Soldier Meadows is a spring-fed wetland that has been inhabited for thousands of years by Great Basin Cultures. This ancient caldera with its many seeps and springs is home to the Desert Dace, a hot water-loving minnow and a rare and endangered springtail snail that only exist in this unique habitat. 

Because of its unique beauty and the vulnerability of its flora and fauna, Soldier Meadows is considered an ACEC (Area of Critical Concern). 

Sign Up


2022 Volunteer for Site Stewardship Projects

Join our fabulous Environmental Stewardship Coordinator, Damien Cooper for an educational and rewarding day of conservation. Meet at our Visitor Center in Gerlach to gear up and learn about the day’s project before heading out to a number of possible sites. This is an excellent opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful sites in the Black Rock in the company of a knowledgeable guide in small groups

Massacre Ranch Campout & Cleanup 2022

Friends of Black Rock – High Rock worked to clean up and beautify a portion of the Massacre Ranch site, removing litter, re-naturalizing, and restoring the cabin. Visit our Flickr to view an album of our conservation efforts!

When: Saturday July 9, 2022

Where: Massacre Ranch, NV


National Public Trails Day 

National Trails Day on the first Saturday in June recognizes the incredible benefits of federal, state and local trails. Events held throughout the United States encourage people to discover their local trails and share their excitement for the outdoors.

Registration for this event is over. Click here to see our Flickr album for the event!