Join Heartland Conservation Alliance in 2026 for Trash Treks at the Heartland Overlook Preserve (HOP). Led by Conservation Land Steward Christian Holderby, these workdays explore how historic dumping impacts restoration and the overall health of the landscape. Volunteers will hike sections of HOP’s 2.2-mile trail system while picking up trash and will also work off-trail where needed to support restoration. This is a physically active workday that involves considerable hiking, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes and come prepared.
Volunteer Qualifications:
You must:
- Register before the event for yourself AND any legal dependents under 18 or adults under your legal guardianship. For this event, anyone:
- 15 or older can volunteer independently.
- 14 and younger must be under parent or legal guardian supervision the entire time.
- Review and accept the Volunteer Waiver of Liability, Assumption of Risks, and Photo Release:
- If you are 18 or older, click the link above to review the waiver and then electronically confirm your acceptance when finalizing your registration.
- If you are under 18 or an adult under legal guardianship, you can register in one of two ways:
- Through a parent or legal guardian, who must add you to their registration and accept the waiver electronically.
- Independently, but you must provide a waiver signed by your parent or legal guardian either as a hard copy at the event or by emailing a scanned copy to the event contact beforehand.
What to Bring:
- Plenty of water appropriate for your needs and weather conditions.
- Sunscreen and/or bug spray as appropriate.
- Breathable yet protective clothing appropriate for the working conditions and weather.
- Closed-toed shoes (no sandals) are required.
- Long pants and socks are highly recommended to protect you from ticks and sharp objects.
- Work gloves are provided as needed but you are welcome to bring your own.
Note that there are no permanent public restrooms onsite. Depending on the time of year, there may be a portable outdoor restroom facility for volunteer use.
This work is made possible by grants from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and National Fish & Wildlife Foundation with support from the U.S. Forest Service.
