Get Involved
Growing Native is made possible by the efforts of volunteers and partners throughout the watershed. Every fall, thousands of volunteers collect native hardwood tree seeds — such as acorns and walnuts — and donate them to state nurseries in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. The nurseries grow these seeds into seedlings that are planted along streams to restore healthy forest buffers.
There are several ways to participate. Choose the role that fits you best.
Individual & Family Collectors
Gather seeds in your backyard or at approved community locations. It's a simple, hands-on way to make a difference — and a great outdoor activity for families. No experience needed; just a willingness to collect and donate native hardwood seeds each fall.
Community Groups
Schools, religious groups, Scout troops, senior centers, and other organizations can organize group collection efforts. It's an excellent team-building activity that connects people to their local environment while contributing to watershed restoration.
Ambassadors
Ambassadors help promote and coordinate seed collection in their communities. They spread the word, recruit new volunteers, and serve as local points of contact. If you're passionate about clean water and healthy forests, this leadership role may be for you.
Drop-off Site Coordinators
Coordinators manage local collection points where volunteers can pick up bags and tags and drop off their collected seeds. Sites are organized by state and region within the Potomac River watershed. Coordinators ensure smooth operations during the collection season.
Educators
Teachers and non-formal educators can integrate seed collection into classroom and community projects. The Growing Native Education Guide provides lessons and stewardship activities for elementary through university levels. Games, quizzes, and hands-on materials help students learn about native trees and the value of healthy watersheds. Visit our Educational Resources page to explore the full range of tools available.
Ready to Get Started?
Learn how to collect seeds, find a drop-off site near you, or register your collection effort.
Questions? Contact us at coordinator@growingnative.org.
Volunteering with Growing Native offers a meaningful way to connect with the land and your community. Whether you are an individual, a family, or part of a workplace group, there are roles suited to every level of commitment. Individual and family collectors can gather seeds from their own backyards or at approved community drop sites, making it easy to participate on your own schedule. For those who prefer a more structured experience, volunteer coordinators and ambassadors help organize collection efforts, host public kiosks, and lead educational sessions. Every collected seed contributes directly to the restoration of healthy streamside forests across the region, so even a small effort makes a lasting difference.
Those interested in learning while giving back will find plenty of opportunities to grow their knowledge of native tree species, seed collection methods, and watershed health. Training webinars and instructional materials help volunteers feel confident before heading out, and public drop locations make the process simple and accessible. Schools, community groups, and workplaces can also get involved by hosting collection stations or organizing team volunteering days. The project has engaged thousands of participants over the years, and each season brings new faces ready to help protect the river region's natural heritage. Joining the effort is straightforward, and the rewards—healthy forests, cleaner waterways, and stronger community ties—are shared by everyone.