qax mot Forest Restoration Volunteer Registration

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
— Margaret Mead

Some of you may already have joined us in the field, and if so—thank you. Thanks to an amazing group of volunteers, we’ve already made great progress over the past few weeks clearing thinning debris, moving wood, and building nurse logs to support long-term forest recovery. It’s been hard work, good teamwork, and very satisfying to see the site begin to change.

We’re continuing this hands-on stewardship effort throughout the month and would love to keep growing the team. These sessions are part of an Integrative Forest Rehabilitation project in the qax mot Conservation Area, focused on helping a dense young plantation evolve into a more diverse, resilient forest over time.

Work varies from week to week but generally includes gathering branches for chipping, sorting and moving logs, and assembling nurse logs. We work in small teams and offer a range of roles so everyone can participate at a level that feels comfortable. New faces and returning volunteers are both very welcome—there’s still lots to do, and every set of hands makes a difference.

Meeting location

Arden Elementary School parking lot
3040 Lake Trail Rd, Courtenay

Parking is limited. We will carpool/shuttle to and from the site. Please arrive at 9:50 sharp at Arden School so we can organize the “shuttle".

Facilities
A portable toilet will be available on site. 

Cell service
Very limited. We recommend reviewing the meeting location and directions in advance, as you may not have reception on site.

Weather & conditions
This activity will take place rain or shine. Conditions have been wet, and the site may be muddy. Please come prepared for uneven and slippery terrain and changing weather.

Weather cancellation
In the event of extreme weather (such as high winds or heavy snow), the activity will be cancelled and participants will be notified by email. Please check your email one hour prior to the event. If you do not receive a cancellation notice, the activity will proceed as planned.

What to bring 

Required

• Waterproof rain jacket and rain pants
• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof work boots with ankle support. Expect wet, muddy, and uneven conditions while moving branches and logs. (Steel-toe boots are welcome if you have them, but not required)
• Reusable mug and water bottle (extra water will be available for refills)

Recommended

• Work gloves (a few extra pairs will be available on site)
• Safety glasses
• Small backpack (you will walk ~15 minutes from the drop-off point to the work site)
• A small, lightweight, foldable chair for lunch breaks (if you choose to bring one)

Food & drinks
Lunch will be provided. Hot water for coffee/tea will be available on site. If you tend to snack throughout the day, you may wish to bring your own extra snacks.
Please note: Due to the walk to the site, pack light and bring only what you can comfortably carry.

 
If your plans change, please remember to cancel your registration to open up a spot for others, as this event often fills up quickly. To change or cancel your registration, please email Françoise at francoise@cvlandtrust.ca or for all other questions or concerns.

 

I understand that my participation in this stewardship activity involves physical work, including heavy lifting, walking on uneven terrain, and the use of hand tools in a forested environment.

I acknowledge that these activities carry inherent risks, including but not limited to muscle strain, slips and falls, injury from lifting, weather exposure, and other unforeseen incidents.

I confirm that:

• I am participating voluntarily
• I am responsible for assessing my own physical fitness and ability to safely participate
• I will choose tasks that are appropriate for my abilities and will communicate any limitations to the project leads
• I agree that the Comox Valley Land Trust (CVLT), its staff, volunteers, partners, and landowners are not responsible for injury, illness, loss, or damage that may occur as a result of my participation, except where required by law.

I release and waive any claims against CVLT arising from my participation in this activity.

I agree to follow all safety instructions provided on site and understand that I may be asked to stop or change tasks if safety concerns arise.

Consent

By registering for this activity, I confirm that I have read, understood, and agree to the terms of this Waiver of Liability and Assumption of Risk.

I understand that submitting my registration constitutes my electronic agreement.

By registering for this activity, I acknowledge that photographs and/or video may be taken during the event in which I may appear. I understand that these images may be used by the organization for non-commercial purposes, including promotion, communications, reporting, and educational materials. If I do not wish to be photographed or filmed, I will notify the organizers in advance by contacting our communications specialist at tanis@cvlandtrust.ca.

If this event is already full, or if you’re unable to attend this time but would still like to participate in future volunteer opportunities, you can register here.