Opportunities From: HandsOn Twin Cities

Volunteer: Volunteer Tree Planting in Superior National Forest

Register with Great River Greening here https://www.greatrivergreening.org/events-calendar-sign-up

Join Great River Greening and Friends of the Superior National Forest in helping to restore Superior National Forest with a hands-on volunteer project at Whiteface Reservoir Campground.  

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Register with Great River Greening here https://www.greatrivergreening.org/events-calendar-sign-up

Join Great River Greening and Friends of the Superior National Forest in helping to restore Superior National Forest with a hands-on volunteer project at Whiteface Reservoir Campground.  

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 19, 2026

Zip Code: 55763

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Help Install Protective Fencing for Bur Oaks in Accelerated Migration Test Plots

Thanks for joining Great River Greening at Fish Creek Natural Area!

Help enhance a 10-year-old bur oak research planting that is helping us understand how trees can adapt to a changing climate. Fish Creek is one of four Twin Cities metro study sites where bur oaks from southern Minnesota/Iowa, local seed sources, and northern Minnesota were planted and monitored.

During this volunteer event, we’ll replace an aging perimeter fence with individual tree cages that provide better protection from deer and rabbits, an important step in the site's ongoing restoration. Register with Great River Greening here https://www.greatrivergreening.org/events-calendar-sign-up

We’ll also share highlights from the Accelerated Genetic Migration of Bur Oak study and discuss how the findings may help guide future restoration plantings and build climate resilience across our landscapes.

Please note registrants will receive updates on any changes and final event details as the date approaches.

This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Please bring your own reusable water bottle. In addition, bring your work/gardening gloves if you have them, if not they will be provided.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions?

volunteer@greatrivergreening.org | +1 651-665-9500 | Learn more about Great River Greening at www.greatrivergreening.org

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Thanks for joining Great River Greening at Fish Creek Natural Area!

Help enhance a 10-year-old bur oak research planting that is helping us understand how trees can adapt to a changing climate. Fish Creek is one of four Twin Cities metro study sites where bur oaks from southern Minnesota/Iowa, local seed sources, and northern Minnesota were planted and monitored.

During this volunteer event, we’ll replace an aging perimeter fence with individual tree cages that provide better protection from deer and rabbits, an important step in the site's ongoing restoration. Register with Great River Greening here https://www.greatrivergreening.org/events-calendar-sign-up

We’ll also share highlights from the Accelerated Genetic Migration of Bur Oak study and discuss how the findings may help guide future restoration plantings and build climate resilience across our landscapes.

Please note registrants will receive updates on any changes and final event details as the date approaches.

This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Please bring your own reusable water bottle. In addition, bring your work/gardening gloves if you have them, if not they will be provided.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions?

volunteer@greatrivergreening.org | +1 651-665-9500 | Learn more about Great River Greening at www.greatrivergreening.org

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 10, 2026

Zip Code: 55119

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Help Install Protective Fencing for Bur Oaks in Accelerated Migration Test Plots (copy)

Thanks for joining Great River Greening at Fish Creek Natural Area!

Help enhance a 10-year-old bur oak research planting that is helping us understand how trees can adapt to a changing climate. Fish Creek is one of four Twin Cities metro study sites where bur oaks from southern Minnesota/Iowa, local seed sources, and northern Minnesota were planted and monitored.

During this volunteer event, we’ll replace an aging perimeter fence with individual tree cages that provide better protection from deer and rabbits, an important step in the site's ongoing restoration. Register with Great River Greening here https://www.greatrivergreening.org/events-calendar-sign-up

We’ll also share highlights from the Accelerated Genetic Migration of Bur Oak study and discuss how the findings may help guide future restoration plantings and build climate resilience across our landscapes.

Please note registrants will receive updates on any changes and final event details as the date approaches.

This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Please bring your own reusable water bottle. In addition, bring your work/gardening gloves if you have them, if not they will be provided.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions?

volunteer@greatrivergreening.org | +1 651-665-9500 | Learn more about Great River Greening at www.greatrivergreening.org

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Thanks for joining Great River Greening at Fish Creek Natural Area!

Help enhance a 10-year-old bur oak research planting that is helping us understand how trees can adapt to a changing climate. Fish Creek is one of four Twin Cities metro study sites where bur oaks from southern Minnesota/Iowa, local seed sources, and northern Minnesota were planted and monitored.

During this volunteer event, we’ll replace an aging perimeter fence with individual tree cages that provide better protection from deer and rabbits, an important step in the site's ongoing restoration. Register with Great River Greening here https://www.greatrivergreening.org/events-calendar-sign-up

We’ll also share highlights from the Accelerated Genetic Migration of Bur Oak study and discuss how the findings may help guide future restoration plantings and build climate resilience across our landscapes.

Please note registrants will receive updates on any changes and final event details as the date approaches.

This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Please bring your own reusable water bottle. In addition, bring your work/gardening gloves if you have them, if not they will be provided.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions?

volunteer@greatrivergreening.org | +1 651-665-9500 | Learn more about Great River Greening at www.greatrivergreening.org

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 17, 2026

Zip Code: 55119

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Forest and Pollinator Habitat Planting | St. Cloud

Register here!

Thanks for joining us on Forest and Pollinator Habitat Planting at Heritage Park. Volunteers will be continuing the work at the City of St. Cloud owned Heritage Park to replace buckthorn in wooded areas with native understory species as well as establish a prairie next to the parking lot and native grasslands in the main park itself to diversify the habitat of this dynamic and well appreciated city park.

Location Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nU2zQqsBi3xu28g98

Please note registrants will receive updates on any changes and final event details as the date approaches.

This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Please bring your own reusable water bottle. In addition, bring your work/gardening gloves if you have them, if not they will be provided.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions?

volunteer@greatrivergreening.org | +1 651-665-9500 | Learn more about Great River Greening at www.greatrivergreening.org

This event is possible thanks to our funders and partners:

Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR)

City of St. Cloud

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Register here!

Thanks for joining us on Forest and Pollinator Habitat Planting at Heritage Park. Volunteers will be continuing the work at the City of St. Cloud owned Heritage Park to replace buckthorn in wooded areas with native understory species as well as establish a prairie next to the parking lot and native grasslands in the main park itself to diversify the habitat of this dynamic and well appreciated city park.

Location Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nU2zQqsBi3xu28g98

Please note registrants will receive updates on any changes and final event details as the date approaches.

This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Please bring your own reusable water bottle. In addition, bring your work/gardening gloves if you have them, if not they will be provided.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions?

volunteer@greatrivergreening.org | +1 651-665-9500 | Learn more about Great River Greening at www.greatrivergreening.org

This event is possible thanks to our funders and partners:

Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR)

City of St. Cloud

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Oct 3, 2026

Zip Code: 56301

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Volunteer Tree Planting |Waite Park

Register Here!

Join us at Willow Creek Park where we'll be working to build a biodiverse and resilient urban tree canopy in an area that needs it most!

Volunteers will plant large-stock trees into pre-dug holes; this work will include loosening root balls, filling holes with soil, watering, and spreading mulch around newly planted trees. They will cool and clean the air, provide shade, and beautify the community. 

This event is part of the Cooling Minnesota Communities program – an initiative working to mitigate extreme heat, deepen climate resiliency, and increase access to urban tree canopies.

No previous knowledge or experience is necessary!We'll provide the tools and training.The trees are roughly 20-30lb and 5-7ft tall. There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Bring your own reusable water bottle if you have one!

This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions? Contact Ollin Montes, Community Forestry & Stewardship Coordinator

omontes@greatrivergreening.org | Text/Call: (763)762-5882 | Learn more: www.greatrivergreening.org 

Thank You to Our Partners and founders:

Funding for this project is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service through the Urban and Community Forestry Program. USDA and Great River Greening are equal opportunity providers and employers.

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Register Here!

Join us at Willow Creek Park where we'll be working to build a biodiverse and resilient urban tree canopy in an area that needs it most!

Volunteers will plant large-stock trees into pre-dug holes; this work will include loosening root balls, filling holes with soil, watering, and spreading mulch around newly planted trees. They will cool and clean the air, provide shade, and beautify the community. 

This event is part of the Cooling Minnesota Communities program – an initiative working to mitigate extreme heat, deepen climate resiliency, and increase access to urban tree canopies.

No previous knowledge or experience is necessary!We'll provide the tools and training.The trees are roughly 20-30lb and 5-7ft tall. There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Bring your own reusable water bottle if you have one!

This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions? Contact Ollin Montes, Community Forestry & Stewardship Coordinator

omontes@greatrivergreening.org | Text/Call: (763)762-5882 | Learn more: www.greatrivergreening.org 

Thank You to Our Partners and founders:

Funding for this project is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service through the Urban and Community Forestry Program. USDA and Great River Greening are equal opportunity providers and employers.

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 22, 2026

Zip Code: 56387

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: National Public Lands Day: Volunteer Planting at Hazelnut Park | Arden Hills

Register Here

Join Great River Greening in restoring native habitat at Hazelnut Park, a well-loved community park. Volunteers will help enhance the urban forest understory by planting native shrubs and wildflowers in areas where invasive buckthorn has been removed. These efforts will increase plant diversity, improve wildlife habitat, and support the long-term health and resilience of the park.

Please note registrants will receive updates on any changes and final event details as the date approaches.

This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Please bring your own reusable water bottle. In addition, bring your work/gardening gloves if you have them, if not they will be provided.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions?

volunteer@greatrivergreening.org | +1 651-665-9500 | Learn more about Great River Greening at www.greatrivergreening.org

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Register Here

Join Great River Greening in restoring native habitat at Hazelnut Park, a well-loved community park. Volunteers will help enhance the urban forest understory by planting native shrubs and wildflowers in areas where invasive buckthorn has been removed. These efforts will increase plant diversity, improve wildlife habitat, and support the long-term health and resilience of the park.

Please note registrants will receive updates on any changes and final event details as the date approaches.

This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Please bring your own reusable water bottle. In addition, bring your work/gardening gloves if you have them, if not they will be provided.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions?

volunteer@greatrivergreening.org | +1 651-665-9500 | Learn more about Great River Greening at www.greatrivergreening.org

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 26, 2026

Zip Code: 55112

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Volunteer Tree Planting | Willmar, MN

Join us at Robbins Island Regional Park where we'll be working to build a biodiverse and resilient urban tree canopy in an area that needs it most!

Register here!

Volunteers will plant large-stock trees into pre-dug holes; this work will include loosening root balls, filling holes with soil, watering, and spreading mulch around newly planted trees. They will cool and clean the air, provide shade, and beautify the community. 

This event is part of the Cooling Minnesota Communities program – an initiative working to mitigate extreme heat, deepen climate resiliency, and increase access to urban tree canopies.

No previous knowledge or experience is necessary!We'll provide the tools and training.The trees are roughly 20-30lb and 5-7ft tall. There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Bring your own reusable water bottle if you have one!

This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions? Contact Ollin Montes, Community Forestry & Stewardship Coordinator

omontes@greatrivergreening.org | Text/Call: (763)762-5882 | Learn more: www.greatrivergreening.org

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Join us at Robbins Island Regional Park where we'll be working to build a biodiverse and resilient urban tree canopy in an area that needs it most!

Register here!

Volunteers will plant large-stock trees into pre-dug holes; this work will include loosening root balls, filling holes with soil, watering, and spreading mulch around newly planted trees. They will cool and clean the air, provide shade, and beautify the community. 

This event is part of the Cooling Minnesota Communities program – an initiative working to mitigate extreme heat, deepen climate resiliency, and increase access to urban tree canopies.

No previous knowledge or experience is necessary!We'll provide the tools and training.The trees are roughly 20-30lb and 5-7ft tall. There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Bring your own reusable water bottle if you have one!

This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions? Contact Ollin Montes, Community Forestry & Stewardship Coordinator

omontes@greatrivergreening.org | Text/Call: (763)762-5882 | Learn more: www.greatrivergreening.org

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 10, 2026

Zip Code: 56201

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Volunteer Planting: Habitat-Friendly Solar in Little Falls

Thank you for joining us! Your support helps make a meaningful impact on our restoration efforts. Volunteers will assist with planting native plant plugs beneath solar panels and watering newly planted vegetation to help establish healthy, sustainable habitat. These activities contribute to biodiversity, pollinator support, and long-term environmental stewardship. 

Please note registrants will receive updates on any changes and final event details as the date approaches.

Register here. This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Please bring your own reusable water bottle. In addition, bring your work/gardening gloves if you have them, if not they will be provided.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions?

volunteer@greatrivergreening.org | +1 651-665-9500 | Learn more about Great River Greening at www.greatrivergreening.org

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Thank you for joining us! Your support helps make a meaningful impact on our restoration efforts. Volunteers will assist with planting native plant plugs beneath solar panels and watering newly planted vegetation to help establish healthy, sustainable habitat. These activities contribute to biodiversity, pollinator support, and long-term environmental stewardship. 

Please note registrants will receive updates on any changes and final event details as the date approaches.

Register here. This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

There will be light snacks and extra water available during the event. Please bring your own reusable water bottle. In addition, bring your work/gardening gloves if you have them, if not they will be provided.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Note: By registering online, you will complete the release of liability and photo release waiver. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions?

volunteer@greatrivergreening.org | +1 651-665-9500 | Learn more about Great River Greening at www.greatrivergreening.org

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 9, 2026

Zip Code: 56345

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Community Pollinator Monitor Volunteer Trainings

Great River Greening is holding trainings for this summer's community science initiative, counting pollinators at our restoration sites. Volunteer monitors will “adopt” a park and conduct 30-minute pollinator surveys independently four to six times from July through September.

At these 1 hour trainings, you will learn how to differentiate four categories of Minnesota's pollinators--bumble bees, butterflies, honey bees, and more!


Trainings for 2026:

June 16 Heritage Park | St. Cloud

June 17 Garlough Park | West St. Paul

June 23 Stillwater Public Library | Stillwater *5:30pm

June 25 Spring Lake Park Reserve | Hastings

June 26 Lebanon Hills Regional Park | Eagan

Trainings will be from 12-1pm and 5:30-6:30pmOnly one training is needed to volunteer

Please fill out this form to register for a training and choose a site

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Great River Greening is holding trainings for this summer's community science initiative, counting pollinators at our restoration sites. Volunteer monitors will “adopt” a park and conduct 30-minute pollinator surveys independently four to six times from July through September.

At these 1 hour trainings, you will learn how to differentiate four categories of Minnesota's pollinators--bumble bees, butterflies, honey bees, and more!


Trainings for 2026:

June 16 Heritage Park | St. Cloud

June 17 Garlough Park | West St. Paul

June 23 Stillwater Public Library | Stillwater *5:30pm

June 25 Spring Lake Park Reserve | Hastings

June 26 Lebanon Hills Regional Park | Eagan

Trainings will be from 12-1pm and 5:30-6:30pmOnly one training is needed to volunteer

Please fill out this form to register for a training and choose a site

Nonprofit: Great River Greening

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Runs Until Sep 30, 2026

Zip Code: 55107

Allow Groups: Yes