Bridging the Gap on the BTNF
Like many public lands across the country, the Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF) is feeling the effects of staffing cuts, especially this past summer. With fewer wilderness rangers and trail crews available, there was a growing need for additional hands to help care for this vast, beloved landscape.
That’s where Friends of the Bridger-Teton came in.
This past summer, we introduced the FBT Forest Corps, a seasonal initiative designed to help fill critical gaps—not to replace federal funding or Forest Service staff. This was a temporary, high-impact team that will lent a hand where it was needed most—to support the Bridger-Teton National Forest however we could.
Because the Forest Corps was so successful and staffing cuts continue, our plan is to continue Forest Corps as a summer seasonal program. It will take on major trail and infrastructure projects across the forest, working on all six districts to ensure continued access and safety for all forest users.
The 2025 team was five incredible women, all of whom brought years of experience as former seasonal Forest Service employees. Their deep knowledge of the forest and commitment to public lands made them the perfect fit for this urgent mission.
Most importantly, we want to be clear: this program is not a substitute for federal investment or staffing. It’s a community-driven response to an immediate need—a way for those who care about the BTNF to step up and help protect what we all love.
The FBT Forest Corps are passionate, experienced, and excited to keep the BTNF accessible, safe, and healthy for all—hikers, riders, outfitters, wildlife, and future generations.
But we can’t do it alone.
The total cost of the summer 2025 crew was approximately $125,000, under our initial estimate of $180,000. This covered crew compensation, vehicle use, insurance, and admin support.
Read our official report of the season
Now, we’re inviting you to join us. Please consider donating to Forest Corps so we can continue to enhance the BTNF and the experience of BTNF users looking ahead to the summer of 2026.
The BTNF needs its Friends more than ever.
