Volunteer Acknowledgment
I, the undersigned volunteer, acknowledge that I am voluntarily participating in activities sponsored by The Public Timber Project which may take place on private lands or lands owned or managed by state or federal agencies. I understand that these activities may include, but are not limited to, trail maintenance, construction, habitat restoration, litter removal, educational outreach, and other service-related tasks.
Assumption of Risk
I understand and acknowledge that volunteering may involve inherent risks, including but not limited to:
- Exposure to uneven terrain, wildlife, weather, and natural hazards
- Risks associated with communicable diseases (including viral, bacterial, and vector-borne illnesses such as COVID-19, influenza, Lyme disease, and other tick- or insect-borne diseases)
- Exposure to allergens or poisonous plants (including poison ivy/oak/sumac), and other outdoor environmental conditions
- Use of hand tools, power tools, and other equipment
- Transportation to and from project sites
- Physical exertion that may result in injury
I voluntarily assume full responsibility for any risks of loss, personal injury, disability, or death that may arise from my participation.
Release of Liability
In consideration of being allowed to participate, I hereby release, waive, discharge, and hold harmless The Public Timber Project and its directors, officers, employees, and agents as well as any partnering state or federal land management agency (including but not limited to the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC), and Arkansas state departments of parks, forests, or natural resources) from any and all liability, claims, or demands for injuries, damages, or losses I may sustain arising out of my participation, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, to the fullest extent permitted by law (hereinafter referred to as RELEASEES).
Indemnification
I agree to INDEMNIFY AND HOLD HARMLESS the RELEASEES, from any loss, liability, damage or costs, including court costs and attorneys’ fees, that RELEASEES may incur due to my participation in any activity as part of my volunteering with the Public Timber Project. The covenants in this paragraph apply whether the loss, damage or injury is caused by my negligence, the negligence of the RELEASEES or the negligence of any third party.
Medical Treatment
I consent to receive medical treatment deemed advisable in the event of injury, accident, or illness during volunteer activities. I release all parties listed above from any claim arising from such treatment. If I am unable to communicate, I authorize emergency responders and/or project leaders to secure treatment deemed reasonably necessary under the circumstances.
Insurance
I understand that I am not considered an employee of The Public Timber Project, the state, or the federal government, and therefore am not entitled to workers’ compensation, health insurance, or other benefits. I am responsible for my own insurance coverage.
Transportation and Vehicle Use
I understand that travel to and from project sites involves risks. If I drive my own vehicle or carpool, I represent that I am duly licensed and that any vehicle I operate is insured as required by applicable law. I agree that, for any accident involving a personally owned or operated vehicle, my personal auto insurance will be primary. I understand that The Public Timber Project does not provide insurance coverage for privately owned vehicles used for project-related travel.
Tools, Equipment, and Training
I will use only tools and equipment authorized by The Public Timber Project or applicable agency, follow provided training and instructions, and refrain from operating tools or equipment for which I have not been trained or authorized. I will wear required PPE and stop work and notify a project leader if I believe a task is unsafe.
Photographs & Media
I grant permission for photographs, video, or other media of me participating in these activities to be used by The Public Timber Project and partnering agencies for educational and promotional purposes.
Governing Law
I agree that this Agreement shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Arkansas, and I agree that any issue relating to this Agreement shall be resolved in Pulaski County, State of Arkansas.
Severability
If any provision of this waiver is held invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in effect to the maximum extent permitted by law.
Volunteer Certification
I certify that:
- I am physically able to participate in the activities described;
- I will follow all safety instructions provided by The Public Timber Project and agency staff;
- I am 18 years of age or older (or if under 18, my parent/guardian has signed below).