Volunteer opportunities in August

Organization Name: Hidden Gems Wilderness Campaign

Organization’s Mission Statement: To secure a new generation of designated wilderness in the greater White River National Forest region.

Contact Information: Lisa Smith, Colorado Environmental Coalition, lisa@cecenviro.org, (720) 635-3246, www.whiteriverwild.org.

Testimonial: “Getting involved with the Hidden Gems and the efforts to designate some of these spectacular areas as wilderness is the best way to preserve our incredible mountains, streams, and wildlife habitat for generations to come.”

— Michelle Zimmerman, Breckenridge resident.

Next Project, Sunday, Aug. 24: Hike in Elliot Ridge proposed wilderness area. Elliot Ridge provides critical wildlife habitat adjacent to the existing Eagles Nest Wilderness Area. The hike will be led by Currie Craven with the Friends of Eagles Nest Wilderness. To register and for hike information, contact Lisa Smith, lisa@cecenviro.org. Limited to 15 participants.

Future Hikes:

Tuesday, Aug. 12: Hike in Acorn Creek proposed wilderness area.

Saturday, Aug. 30: Hike in Spraddle Creek proposed wilderness area.

Sunday, Aug. 31: Hike in Lower Piney proposed wilderness area.

Organization: Ducks Unlimited

Mission Statement: Ducks Unlimited conserves, restores and manages wetlands and associated habitats for North America’s waterfowl. These habitats also benefit other wildlife and people.

Contact Information: Karl Heggland, kheggland@comcast.net

Testimonial: “If you believe in conservation, become a partner with DU and make sure your money goes into the habitat. And thanks ... from the ducks.” — Karl Heggland

Annual Fundraising Banquet:

Friday, Aug. 22, Summit County Ducks Unlimited Annual Banquet

Live and silent auctions and raffles for exceptional merchandise, gift certificates, hunting and fishing trips.

Come and support the single most effective conservation organization in North America. Across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico, DU has helped restore, conserve, and preserve more than 12 million acres of wetlands, including projects on the South Platte and Colorado rivers, the San Louis Valley and many other areas of Colorado.