Help Restore One of Southern Vermont's Most Special Wetland Ecosystems

Join the Bennington County Conservation District for a morning of hands-on conservation at Gale Meadows Pond. Together, we'll help care for one of Bennington County's most ecologically significant landscapes. Whether you're an experienced volunteer or joining your very first stewardship event, everyone is welcome.

We'll provide instruction, tools, and guidance throughout the day.

Gale Meadows Wildlife Management Area is one of southern Vermont's largest ponds and is surrounded by extensive wetlands, forests, and wildlife habitat. The area provides critical breeding, feeding, and migration habitat for birds, amphibians, mammals, pollinators, and countless native plant species. Protecting this landscape helps improve water quality, strengthen climate resilience, and preserve habitat for generations to come.

Volunteer activities may include:

• Removing invasive plant species
• Planting or maintaining native vegetation
• Improving riparian and wetland habitat
• Cleaning up debris
• General stewardship projects that improve the health of the pond and surrounding ecosystem

The exact projects will depend on site conditions and volunteer turnout.

Everyone is welcome. No prior experience is necessary. Volunteers of all skill levels are encouraged to attend. Staff will provide safety guidance, demonstrations, and any necessary training before work begins.

What to Bring

Bring your own Kayak or Paddleboard. If you do not have access to one but would still like to participate, please let us know.

Please come prepared to work outdoors. We recommend bringing/wearing closed-toe shoes or boots, long pants, work gloves (extras if you have them), a refillable water bottle, sunscreen and insect protection, weather-appropriate clothing. 

Tools and additional equipment will be provided.

Healthy shorelines and wetlands protect our communities by filtering pollutants, reducing erosion, storing floodwaters, and providing habitat for fish and wildlife. Every hour volunteered helps strengthen local conservation efforts and supports community-based stewardship across Bennington County. Community volunteer efforts also help the Conservation District leverage grant funding and expand conservation work throughout the region.

Register Today

Advance registration is appreciated so we can prepare enough tools, supplies, and volunteer projects.

Come spend a few hours outdoors, meet others who care about Vermont's natural resources, and make a lasting difference for one of our region's treasured wetlands. We hope to see you there!