Independent Stewards

David Hanson

Oregon Natural Desert Association’s independent stewardship projects offers volunteers a self-directed option for promoting a healthy high desert in addition to our structured option of guided stewardship trips.

How It Works

ONDA provides assignments and resources. Volunteers learn new skills and complete critical tasks on their own while giving their high desert adventures an elevated purpose. Stewards receive guidance from ONDA, but are primarily self-directed.

Why It Helps

Independent stewards are critical players in completing stewardship work in the high desert, and perhaps even bringing new stewardship needs to light as they explore Oregon’s dry side with a trained eye. The work our volunteers complete across eastern Oregon informs our conservation and legal work and underpins our ongoing commitment to protect, defend, and restore the high desert.

Subscribe to ONDA’s E-News to hear about new projects and opportunities as they become available throughout the year and check out the 2022 calendar of group trips and independent project opportunities that are open for registration now.

voices

Mary McCord, ONDA Volunteer

Mary McCord, ONDA Volunteer

“I find enjoyment in the peaceful wide open spaces, geology, and rich history of Oregon’s high desert,” says Mary. Reflecting on volunteering, she continues, “If you have the ability and desire, it’s important to do something to contribute. It doesn’t have to be big, because every little bit helps.”

voices

Cregg Large, member since 2009

Cregg Large, member since 2009

“I came to Oregon 12 years ago from Texas. Texas, for all its size, has very little public land. Coming to Oregon has made me realize the special gift we as Americans have in our public lands. Volunteering with an organization like ONDA is my way of reciprocating for this gift. Through restoration efforts, I feel we are helping leave a better place than we found it. Through advocating for protection for public lands, we safeguard migration routes for animals and keep the land where it belongs: with the public.”

watch

Discover Desert Pronghorn

Discover Desert Pronghorn

2021 Independent Stewards Accomplishments

Independent stewards are critical players in completing desert restoration projects, and bringing new maintenance needs to light as they explore Oregon’s dry side with a trained eye.

This story highlights the work these volunteers completed in 2021.

Check Out The Map

Sage Brown   Website

Sage Brown   Website

Sage Brown   Website

ONDA

Michael O'Casey