The Powerful Force Behind The Scenes

What stands out most isn’t  how much they accomplish. It’s how eager they are to help.

A few weeks ago, more than 60 volunteers from Cedar Hills Church gathered at Pine Street Woods and the Sled Hill for a morning of service. By lunchtime, they had built a footbridge, seeded disturbed ground around the new parking area, organized tools and equipment, removed old barbed wire, cleared brush, improved trails, and tackled dozens of other projects.

"To have 60 people show up and jump right in with such enthusiasm was incredible," said KLT Conservation Director Regan Plumb. "They got so much done, and nobody ever even wanted to take a break."

When Regan suggested volunteers pause for a slice of pie that had just arrived, many had a different idea.

"Are you sure there isn't something else we can do?" one volunteer asked.

That spirit says a lot about this community.

While that particular day was remarkable, it is only one example of something much bigger. Throughout the year, volunteers show up again and again to care for Pine Street Woods, the Sled Hill, and other public access lands. Local businesses, church groups, students, families, and individual volunteers all contribute their time and talents to keep these places welcoming, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.

Students from Farmin-Stidwell Elementary spend their annual Farmin Gives day helping care for Pine Street Woods. Groups from Mountain West Bank, Cedar Hills Church, Seventh-day Adventist Church, and many others have made volunteer service a tradition. Individual community members regularly lend their skills to everything from trail projects to event support.

Together, these volunteers form a powerful force. Already in 2026, 60 volunteers have contributed nearly 700 hours of service!

The truth is that places like Pine Street Woods don't care for themselves. Trails need maintenance. Signs need repair. Habitat needs stewardship. Projects need hands and hearts behind them.

"We are so grateful for their eagerness and effort," said Executive Director Katie Cox. "When people see themselves as part of the greater picture, they have so much joy. It’s wonderful to see that happen.” 

Every trail cleared, envelope stuffed, and weed pulled tells the story of belonging. These lands belong to the community, and the community is helping care for them.

To learn how you can bring your skills and interests to our volunteer force, visit kaniksu.org/volunteer.

Volunteers from Mountain West Bank, Cedar Hills Church, Farmin-Stidwell Elementary, and community hero’s get things done for the places we love.