WHO ARE YOUNG NATURALISTS?
Young Naturalists are high school students who want to learn more about nature and love spending time outdoors. They accept the challenge to work hard in conditions that are at times harsh and physically demanding to improve the health of the park. Young Naturalists are also looking to pursue a degree or career related to environmental science, ecology, education, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) or sustainability. The Young Naturalists program is a fun, paid opportunity for students to get outdoors and learn about the environment, gain unique work and leadership experience, and meet other teenagers who are interested in the environment. Students spend their summer outdoors learning about plants and animals alongside expert naturalists while working to improve the health of our parks by controlling erosion, managing and monitoring invasive species, repairing trails and caring for trees.
INTERESTED IN APPLYING?
To apply and be considered for the Young Naturalists summer internship, a student must have either participated in the High School Urban EcoStewards program during the 2019/2020 school year, volunteered as a Junior Camp Counselor with the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, or been nominated by a teacher or mentor from one of our partner organizations. The nomination deadline is Friday, May 15.
Participants are paid a $800 stipend over the five-week program. During this period, they attend a three-day, two-night retreat in the Laurel Highlands while working Monday - Thursday for the duration of their program. Students also receive a rain coat, rain pants, t-shirts, water bottle, work boots, bus passes, and tuition. Additional paid opportunities with our education team are available on weekends during the school year for students who complete the program.
YOUR PARKS MATTER
Parks thrive when they have sun, soil, rain…and you. You ensure programs are offered, trees are planted, capital projects are funded, flowers are tended to, research is pursued. There is nothing the parks can’t do with you behind them.