The U.S. Forest Service-AMC Alpine Stewardship Volunteer program started in 2000, sparked by the dedicated interest of a few individuals. Since its inception, the program has grown to include 12 dedicated Alpine Stewards who patrol Franconia Ridge each weekend from Mid-May through Columbus Day.

Through this program, the AMC and the USFS hope to increase the public's awareness of its impact on the alpine environment and educate ridge visitors about preservation of alpine vegetation. These volunteer Stewards address topics such as the importance of staying within the treadway, prevention of "summit sprawl," Leave No Trace ethics, ridge safety and low-impact trail tending. While on the trail, they are available to respond to questions or concerns of ridge hikers and can engage visitors in a friendly, educational manner.

Who Should Apply
The individuals who will most enjoy serving as alpine stewards are those who:

• Have a friendly, outgoing, professional manner, in addition to experience working with the general public in a recreational setting.
  
  
• Are an avid hiker with an understanding of the White Mountain National Forest and AMC.
  
  
• Are comfortable approaching individuals to provide conservation and safety information.
  
  
• Are AMC members.
  
  
• Have a current Wilderness First Aid and CPR certification.
  
  
• Are committed to the protection of the alpine zone and the promotion of Leave No Trace ethics.
  
  
• Are able to provide coverage at least two weekends per year.
  
  
• Are able to attend the annual training and meeting, usually held in the spring.
  

What They Do
Stewards take on a number of rewarding responsibilities, including:

• Demonstrating and exemplifying appropriate alpine zone behavior and Leave No Trace ethics.
  
  
• Approaching hikers to provide education on the alpine zone environment, ecology, Leave No Trace practices and low-impact trail tending.
  
  
• Approaching visitors causing a negative impact on the alpine zone to provide education in a friendly, educational manner.
  
  
• Providing information to visitors about safety concerns, particularly regarding weather.
  
  
• Communicating information concerning Forest Service backcountry camping regulations and Leave No Trace principles, as needed or requested.
• Participating in the AMC Mountain Watch Program's ozone and visibility study.
  

How the AMC and USFS Support Them:
The AMC and USFS provide the following for alpine stewards:

• Room and board on the weekends they serve.
  
  
• Gear and uniform to use while working.
  
  
• Annual training opportunities.
  
  
• Recognition for their efforts through Stewardship Society awards, based on the number of hours contributed annually.
  

How to Apply:
The Alpine Stewardship Volunteer Program is a small program, being located solely on Franconia Ridge in New Hampshire.  We are always interested in receiving applications in the event of an opening, however.  For more information, email us by selecting "Volunteers" from this form. Please be sure to include a brief description of why you are interested in the program.  You will receive a brochure and an application in the mail.