Make Stewardship A Part of 2026
Stewardship doesn’t look just one way, and in times of uncertainty and ongoing federal budget strains, that matters more than ever. Caring for our public lands takes many hands, many skill sets, and many ways of showing up.
That's our approach at RFOV. Some folks step up as volunteer crew leaders, project ambassadors, members of our chainsaw crew, or project sponsors. Each role supports safe, sustainable trails and a strong culture of stewardship across the Roaring Fork Valley.
In 2026, we’re excited to add a new pathway: the Trail Ambassador Program. This pilot program invites volunteers to simply do what they already love—get out on the trail—while serving as a friendly, knowledgeable presence. Trail Ambassadors will represent RFOV on the trail, connect with other users, help report trail conditions, and share information about trail etiquette and Leave No Trace practices. It’s stewardship rooted in connection, education, and community.
We’re here to make stewardship approachable, enjoyable, and impactful, no matter your experience level or schedule. Keep an eye out for upcoming announcements and training opportunities this spring, and join us in showing that stewardship doesn’t look just one way. It looks like all of us, showing up together.
Training Tomorrow's Outdoor Leaders
Last month, our Youth in Nature cohort dedicated a full weekend to building skills that save lives. Braving snowy conditions, students completed Wilderness First Aid training, learning CPR and practicing how to respond to a wide range of real-world backcountry emergencies to keep themselves and others safe.
From bandaging simulated gushing wounds to recognizing the early signs of hypothermia, the group worked through hands-on scenarios designed to test both knowledge and composure. Confidence was understandably low on day one, but as the weekend unfolded, students began asking the right questions, understanding how the body functions under stress, and confidently determining the best course of action in each situation. What started as uncertainty turned into preparedness, teamwork, and leadership.
A huge thank you to Mike at Desert Mountain Medicine for leading such a thorough, engaging, and impactful course. And to our students: thank you for showing up, leaning in, and supporting one another! Your commitment to learning makes our outdoor community stronger and safer.
Applications open tomorrow, Thurs. Jan. 15th for the 2026–27 cohort!
If you know a student who’s curious, adventurous, and ready to make a difference, please encourage them to apply!
Upcoming Events
Tool Maintenance Day at the Third Street Center
Missing the field season? Us too. Join us on Thurs. Jan. 29th from 2 pm - 5 pm as we show some love to the tools that power our work, reconnect with favorite stewardship friends, and ease back into the rhythm of gathering together. It’s a relaxed, hands-on way to care for our shared gear, swap stories, and get a sneak peek at what we’re excited about for the season ahead.
Never Miss an RFOV Trivia Night!
We’re bringing Trivia Night back for a fun evening of connection, conversation, and community with RFOV. Test your conservation know-how, share a few laughs, and help us build momentum for another season of impactful work on our public lands.
Thurs. Feb. 26th
Carbondale Beer Works
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
We're Hiring Our Seasonal Field Team
Join our incredible program team! Applications are still open for our 2026 seasonal positions. If you love working in the outdoors, have conservation leadership experience, and love building community through stewardship, we want to hear from you!
Looking for Housing Support
As we welcome new seasonal staff, we’re also navigating the ongoing challenge of housing in our region. If you know of affordable housing options—an ADU, room rental, or unit you’d be willing to rent below market rate—please contact Jack Douglas, RFOVs Director of Programs. We appreciate your help connecting us with housing resources for our new staff!
Get Your Business Involved in 2026
Caring for our trails takes all of us. That’s why we’re inviting local businesses to be part of the stewardship that keeps our shared outdoor spaces healthy, welcoming, and resilient. Through Business Sponsorships and Adopt-a-Trail projects, your team can contribute directly to the places we recreate, connect, and build community alongside an inspiring group of people who care deeply for our public lands. Click the buttons below to learn more.
Sponsor Spotlight: Athletic Brewing
RFOV was one of 241 organizations selected to receive a Two For The Trails grant from Athletic Brewing Company in 2025. Named after Athletic Co-Founder and CEO Bill Shufelt's family tradition of taking two brews to toast post-trail adventures, this program gives back up to $2 million annually to protect and restore outdoor spaces across the globe. Their support helps us care for the trails and open spaces our community relies on for recreation, connection, and inspiration.
Simply by signing the Aspen Pledge, the Aspen Chamber Resort Association (ACRA) will make a donation on your behalf to Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers.
1. Go to citymarketrewards.com
2. Login or create an account
3. When asked to "Link your card", choose "Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteer" from the list of organizations