In the second phase of our Timber Project, we are focusing on three iconic tree species across the Pacific Northwest in North America: western redcedar, coast redwood, and Alaska yellow-cedar. ​Between 2019 and 2020, our goal is to gather 7,000 samples to help our partners at the U.S. Forest Service and Save the Redwoods League.

We Need Your Help 

Do you or someone you know live near (or planning extensive travel through) the public lands of California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, Southern Alaska, Northwest Idaho, or Montana? 
We are seeking adventurous individuals who pay close attention to detail, follow through on their commitments in a timely matter, ​and are able to regularly communicate with the Adventure Scientists team. 

General qualifications:
  • 18 years of age or older (minors are welcome to join sampling outings and are asked to not handle samples)
  • Access to and proficiency with an iPhone 6 or Android equivalent (or later generation smartphone)
  • Ability to safely travel in remote environments with at least one partner
  • Previous field data collection experience is preferred but not required
As a volunteer for the Timber Project, we'll supply you with the tools and training necessary to collect tree tissue samples from one of our three focal species. You can choose to sample wherever you'd like, as long as you are following all environmental, safety, and permitting protocols. 
Western Redcedar
​(Thuja plicata)
Sample Collection nearly complete! 
These magnificent conifers are found in Northern California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, Idaho, Alaska, and Montana. 
Alaska Yellow-Cedar
(​Callitropsis nootkatensis)
Yellow-cedar's range extends well  beyond Alaska. We're collecting samples from Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia as well.
Coast Redwood
(Sequoia sempervirens)
Sample Collection Complete in 2019!
Reliant on a mild, humid climate, these enormous trees are primarily found in coastal California, shown in green on the map. 

The Nitty-Gritty Details

 Timeframe

This summer we will complete sample collection for Alaska yellow-cedar. 

We are currently accepting applications for:​​
  • Period VII - August 24 - December 31, 2020

​We especially need volunteers to collect samples in:
  • British Columbia
  • Southern Oregon
Sample Requirements
Within a sampling period, you are asked to collect samples of a single tree species from three to four locations. Exceptions will be made in some cases, including if you are traveling to a remote location or thru-hiking.

Volunteers working with Alaska yellow-cedar will be asked to collect tree cores, cones, and leaves from multiple tree stands. 
Training and Equipment
All volunteers need to complete online training modules and a comprehensive quiz prior to getting out in the field. We will offer a variety of optional educational webinars and readings to supplement your education. 

We will ship your equipment at least one week before your anticipated start date. We ask that you ship your equipment and samples back to us before the end of your sampling period.
Please allow 10-15 minutes to complete the application.