River Restoration Action Team

Become a River R.A.T. and join the River Restoration Action Team to help restore streams and wetlands in the Gallatin Valley!

This volunteer position is perfect for those who want to take direct action and develop skills in ecological restoration. By making a regular commitment, your efforts will make a lasting impact on the health of our watershed. Be like the small but mighty muskrat, a scrappy, dedicated rodent that humbly plays a keystone role in stream and wetland ecosystems

Commitment: Flexible; minimum of 4 events per season (Spring, Summer & Fall opportunities available)

Time Requirement: Varies; average 3 to 5 hours per event (Typically Restoration Thursdays 1–4:30 p.m. & occasional weekends and evenings)

Join the R.A.Ts

Key Responsibilities

  • Revegetation: Harvest and stake willows, plant trees and shrubs, seed grasses and wildflowers

  • Stream Restoration & Habitat Work:Build Beaver Dam Analogs (BDAs), Post-Assisted Log Structures (PALS), and apply other low-tech process-based techniques

  • Site Maintenance: Control weeds, lay mulch, and maintain plantings and fencing

  • Beaver Coexistence Projects: Wrap trees with protective fencing

  • Community Engagement & Leadership: Assist in leading volunteer activities, provide quality control and guidance, and engage with volunteers, local businesses, student groups, and more

Training & Support

  • Required hands-on volunteer training on April 9th or 10th, 1-4pm

  • Required signature on acknowledgment of risk Waiver.

  • On-the-job guidance from conservation professionals

Sign Up
Waiver

River R.A.Ts Perks

Enjoyment

  • Make a lasting environmental impact

  • Meet new people, and make friends

  • Exercise and move your body out in nature

  • Work with your hands and reduce stress

Professional Development

  • Build restoration skills and ecological knowledge

  • Network within the world of conservation, water, and environmental management

  • Gain valuable job experience for those interested in pursuing an environmental career

Volunteer Appreciation

  • River R.A.T. volunteer T-shirt at the beginning of the season

  • Certificate of Recognition for those that complete 4+ events

  • Raffle tickets for events attended. More participation = more chances to win at annual events!

  • End-of-season celebration (potential bowling night or bonfire)