Wildlife Friendlier Fencing

The Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation seeks volunteers for Wildlife Friendlier Fencing projects in Jackson, WY. Volunteers will help remove or modify barbed wire fences to protect wildlife and facilitate their movement. Projects run from April to October, typically on weekdays and weekends. Volunteers should be prepared for outdoor work in various weather conditions and terrains. Training will be provided, and snacks are available during workdays.
The Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation has been removing and lowering fences for almost 30 years. With the help of our partners, landowners, and volunteers, we have removed over 230 miles of fencing. The West is covered with thousands of miles of barbed wire fences that no longer serve their purpose. Wildlife can become entangled in these fences, and the results can be deadly. In addition, migration patterns can be disrupted by these fences.

Our goal is to modify or remove fences to keep wildlife safe and allow them to move freely. Volunteers are incredibly important to our fence work. Each fence project can range from 1 mile to 6 miles of fencing. Without our volunteers, we would not have the ability to remove the amount of fencing needed to make a significant impact.

Time Commitment

Volunteers can expect a weekday or weekend daytime commitment throughout the summer. The fence removal/modification season runs from April to October. Fence project days usually start at 9 AM and are finished by 2 PM.

Progression

We are in the process of creating a volunteer award system to track volunteer hours and offer awards for long-time volunteers. More information will be coming soon!

Job Duties
• Help remove barbed wire fences or modify fences to make them wildlife-friendly (instruction will be provided upon arrival).
• Work as a team to roll wire and load it into vehicles for recycling.
• Use tools to remove and cut wire.
• If lowering the fence, lower the wire towards the ground.
• Snacks and drinks are provided. We are working on securing sponsors for lunch!

Qualifications and Skills
• Open to anyone who wants to protect wildlife and create a more permeable landscape.
• We recommend volunteers have an up-to-date Tetanus shot.
• Must be willing to hike steep and uneven terrain and carry heavy wire.
• Must be willing to work in all kinds of weather, on various terrains, and in remote areas.
• A waiver must be signed before volunteering.

Expectations
• Arrive on time with a positive attitude.
• Work from 9 AM to 2 PM.
• Be willing to learn and work as a team.
• Come prepared with proper clothing (long sleeves, long pants, eye protection, and closed-toed shoes).