Ancient Forest Society

Volunteers Make Our Work Possible

Ancient Forest Society (AFS) runs an ambitious research program that requires multiple trips to giant sequoia groves throughout the Sierra Nevada each year. The research aims to better understand the impacts of drought, fire and bark beetles on giant sequoias. To shed light on these issues, our team is studying more than 90 sequoias, an enormous task. We rely on the generous help of volunteers to collect critical samples and make time-sensitive measurements.

Each year, fellow tree lovers team up with AFS in the field to help with this important research. Our dedicated volunteers are motivated by a desire to make a positive impact while getting to experience the majestic giant sequoias in an up-close and personal setting. Volunteers travel independently from around the world to contribute their hard work and invaluable tree climbing skills. Together we camp out, share meals and rise before the sun comes up to climb giant sequoias and collect samples. We are drawn together by our shared reverence for these remarkable trees and together we accomplish enormous feats.

So far this year we have had 45 unique volunteers participate from nine states and five countries, contributing over 220 days of service. The field season isn’t over yet. We still have three more field trips to complete and we couldn’t do it without our amazing volunteers!

We are actively working to enhance the volunteer program so it will better support our research and the volunteers that are so critical to its success. This is part of a greater mission to raise awareness and advocate for the protection of our forests. The volunteer program actively fosters connections between people and trees.

You can support our amazing tree loving volunteers by donating to AFS. Donating or becoming a member is an impactful way to help us inspire advocacy, advance sustainable forest management, and ensure that these vital ecosystems thrive for future generations.

Welcome Lea Braen

We are excited to welcome our newest team member Lea Braen! Lea’s position is made possible through the Sierra Nevada Alliance’s Sierra Corps Forestry Fellowship Program. Thanks to the Alliance’s generous support for her position, Lea is helping to build Ancient Forest Society’s (AFS) capacity and further our mission through working on our Bark Beetle Monitoring Project.

Lea Braen is an ecologist, originally from New Jersey with a degree in Environmental Studies from Ramapo College of New Jersey. After graduation, Lea worked as a Park Ranger in New Jersey and later an Ecologist in Florida and Wildlife Biologist/Environmental Planner in California. She has worked in diverse habitats and is committed to promoting positive connections between people and the environment, while protecting vulnerable species and ecosystems.

Lea has had a long-standing interest in working with giant sequoia trees and is excited to be contributing to their protection and serving the surrounding communities by working on bark beetle monitoring as a Forest Health Project Specialist with Sierra Nevada Alliance and AFS. Lea's work with AFS involves scouting, climbing, and inspecting giant sequoia trees with bark beetle activity, participating in beetle research trips, and processing data collected in the field.

Ancient Forest Society Attends Oktobearfest at the Sequoia Park Zoo

Ancient Forest Society will be in attendance at OktoBEARfest, at the Sequoia Park Zoo on Saturday, October 11th, 2025. If you are in the Humboldt area, we hope you join the Oktobearfest festivities at the zoo in Eureka. The zoo features a sky walk 100 feet high amongst the redwoods, a unique and engaging way to experience redwoods first-hand.

Get your AFS swag!

It’s autumn and it’s getting cooler. This is a great time to grab your Ancient Forest Society hoodie or beanie. Our merchandise is available for purchase online and is a great way to bolster our work. We have hats, shirts, patches and so much more for you to show your support and love for ancient forests. CLICK HERE to get yourself or someone you love something warm to wear. Each purchase helps support our organization in working towards a better future for old trees and ancient forests.