Is there any type of commitment to the number of projects I must sign up for per year?
No; there is no commitment to the number of projects you must attend. There are 1-3
projects scheduled each month. You can sign up for as many as you like.

I’ve never done this type of work. Will I receive training?
There is no experience necessary to participate in these projects. If fact, one of the
primary goals of this program is to teach visitors the many aspects of maintaining the trails and preserves. District staff and volunteer crew leaders provide all project instructions and training (including safety). We also provide all tools.

Do I have to sign up, or can I just show up for a project?
You must sign up before the project. All projects have a “maximum number of volunteers” limit. Group sizes range from 8 to 25, depending on the project type, parking limitations, staffing issues, and other factors. If a project is full, a waiting list will be implemented.

Can I sign up my entire family?
You bet— as long as there are enough spots available. You can also sign up friends and/or coworkers. For most projects, 14 is the minimum age; however, winter and spring planting projects are usually suitable for younger children. Please contact us for details regarding signing up Minors for projects.

I notice the projects run from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. If needed, can I leave early?
It is okay to leave early from most projects; please inform the staff person during the
morning orientation. In addition, some projects end early due to high temperatures, rain, or other factors.

What do I do if it is raining the morning of the event?
Call the Project Update Line: (650) 691-2150 Ext 4 (after 7:45 am).
Heavy rain conditions will cancel the event; however, most projects can proceed under
occasional light rain/overcast conditions. Safety is, as always, the deciding factor. If
weather conditions are marginal, District staff will make a decision on the status of the
project and post a message on the Project Update Line by 7:45 am, the morning of the event.

Once I sign up for a project, how do I know where to meet, what to bring, etc?
Each participant will receive a Project Details Email (or letter) the Monday prior to the event. This message will provide all the details regarding your project. If you have further questions, or need more specific driving directions, please contact the Volunteer Programs Coordinator at volunteer@openspace.org or (650) 691-1200.
Special Note: Since these details can be emailed, volunteers can usually sign up for projects
(with spots available) as late as 4:00 pm on Friday afternoon.