Dolores River riverbank restoration with Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado
Two-day habitat project removing invasive tamarisk and planting native species along the Dolores River in western Colorado. Camping and meals provided.
Why we picked this
Two days on the Dolores River means real habitat work — tamarisk removal, native replanting, and camping between sessions. VOC covers meals and logistics.
This two-day VOC project focuses on riverbank restoration along the Dolores River between Gateway and Naturita in western Colorado. Volunteers remove invasive tamarisk and other non-native vegetation, prepare sites for replanting, and plant native species to stabilize the riverbank and restore habitat. Certified sawyers handle the larger tamarisk while others use loppers and hand tools to clear debris and prepare soil.
Camping is provided for the weekend (Friday through Sunday night) and VOC covers all meals. Ages 18+. Bring layers, sturdy boots, gloves, and sun protection for two days of outdoor work in variable high desert conditions. Driving distance from Denver is approximately 5 hours.
The Dolores River corridor is a critical riparian habitat for wildlife and a stretch of exceptional natural beauty. Tamarisk removal makes room for native cottonwood and willow — the difference between sessions one year and the next is visible to anyone who makes the trip twice.