How much does it cost to join a Junior Forest Warden club?

Each club sets its own fee for membership depending on what is included, with fees ranging between $60 and $190 per year. For example, a club may decide that the annual fee includes the cost of a uniform shirt, while another club may ask members to pay for the uniform separately. Check the club listings to see if there is an active club in your area, or contact office@ajfwa.ca to request that a local club contact you with more information.

I just found out about Junior Forest Wardens. Can I join a club in the middle of the year?

Many clubs will accept new members anytime during the year. We will connect you with the club coordinator(s) of your local club(s) by phone or through email. Simply contact our Office Administrator at office@ajfwa.ca to be put in touch with a specific club leader in or closest to your geographical area, or find a club on the map on this website, and click on it to find contact information.

How often does a club meet?

Club meeting times are set by each club. Each club is different, depending on members’ interests and goals. Many clubs hold meetings are once a week, while others meet twice a month. The club year usually runs from September to April, May or June, again depending on the club. Special events and outings occur on weekends as well.

How old do I have to be to join?

Children as young as 6 years old can join JFW. There are 4 age groups:

• • • Pathfinders – Ages 6-8

    • Trailblazers – Ages 9-11

    • Adventurers- Ages 12-14

    • Challengers – Ages 15-18

Do clubs have a mix of ages, or all one age group?

Clubs are mixed, often having all 4 age groups in one club. Depending on now many Wardens are in a club, they are divided off into their age categories for separate activities appropriate to their age group. Activities are planned for mixed age groups for leadership and mentoring opportunities.

Can parents come to club meetings and events with their kids or can they drop them off?

JFW is a family oriented program in which parents participate alongside their children in learning about Ecology, Forestry, Leadership and Outdoor Skills. This is one of the unique things about JFW - the parents get just as much out of it as the kids do! Preschool age children are also generally welcome at most meetings and club events. As your children grow up, the program becomes more advanced and challenging. You'll be amazed at what your family will learn after a few years in JFW!

Do parents have to volunteer?

Volunteer obligations are set by each club. Most clubs do require some volunteer participation, depending on the number of years a family has been involved with the club. We find that parents are excited to volunteer and be part of their children's JFW experience. Again, parents get as much out of the program as the children.

What kinds of activities will I get to do as a Warden?

Junior Forest Warden activities focus on our 4 Pillars of:

• • • Forestry,

    • Ecology,

    • Leadership, and

    • Outdoor Skills.

JFW helps children and youth develop skills while having fun and helping their community.

I have cousins and friends that live in different provinces. Can they join the Junior Forest Wardens?

Yes, Junior Forest Wardens is not just in Alberta! We have clubs in other provinces. Click here for club locations.

I don’t see a club listed where I live but would like to start one. Who do I talk to?

We encourage anyone interested in starting a club to contact our Office Administrator by email at office@ajfwa.ca . We have a Club Information Kit that can be emailed to you. If you are serious about starting a club we can put you in touch with our Membership Director who will work with you to get your new club chartered.

Is Junior Forest Wardens a government program?

JFW used to be run directly through the Department of Sustainable Resource Development, but became an independent organization in 2007. It is now run by a volunteer Board of Directors, with each club having their own leaders and volunteers.

I’m almost 18 now. Is it too late to join the Junior Forest Wardens?

We welcome children and youth of all ages to join. There are opportunities for older Wardens and adults to develop training, mentoring, and leadership skills that will assist you in becoming future leaders in the JFW program and/or in your community. If you were a Warden in the past, you can also join as an Alumni to keep involved!

How do I access my AJFWA Members only account?

The IT committee has designed a step by step tutorial for you to be able to access your members only AJFWA account. More information on your user name and the tutorial is available on the IT Support Page.

Thank you for your interest in Junior Forest Wardens!