Since 1989, American River Conservancy (ARC) has been preserving healthy ecosystems in the upper American River and upper Cosumnes River watersheds and connecting the community with nature through environmental conservation, stewardship, and education.

The nonprofit relies heavily on generous donors and volunteers to help them protect open land at the source of fresh water, which sustains life in the greater Sacramento region and far beyond. Their science-based environmental education programs reach thousands of people of all ages each year, and their stewardship programs help to connect the community with special places, including Wakamatsu Farm.

ARC’s protected properties now contain over 35 miles of scenic trails enjoyed by countless visitors every year. 

Find more information about donating, volunteering, and joining ARC events at arconservancy.org.

Top photo by Melissa Lobach. Middle photo by Marcus Christian. Bottom middle photo by Julie Allen. Poppy field photo by Larry Moore.

Volunteer Spotlight:

Greg Carlson

What made you want to become a volunteer for ARC? 

I initially heard about ARC from a coworker and started volunteering in 2014, recruiting groups of volunteers to do property cleanups and trail work. I found it rewarding to protect lands for future public use and enjoyment.  

What do your volunteer duties entail? I secure groups from my workplace for cleanups and other events. Past projects have included removing seven vehicles and over 100 cubic yards of trash from several ARC properties. Currently, I manage small and large projects that mainly support ARC’s Wakamatsu Farm. I usually help small teams with building repairs, equipment maintenance, mowing, and fence repairs. I also built the Donor Wall of Honor at Wakamatsu Farm and served on ARC’s board for about a year.

Is there training required? Some training is required, and typically I try to align volunteers with their knowledge and skills. Safety is always a priority. I like to make sure everyone is safe and understands the tasks they’re doing along with any specific hazards.

What’s the time commitment? I typically spend about 15 hours a week volunteering.

What’s been the best day of volunteering so far? There hasn’t been a “best” day; walking a property after all the trash is removed, cleanup is completed, and the land is ready for public use makes me feel good.

What’s one of the biggest challenges? Keeping other volunteers happy, comfortable, and safe while also ensuring they’re enjoying the work they’re doing. Efforts in this area keep people coming back to help with future projects, which truly helps ARC.