New York State Natural Resource Internship Steward Program

The New York State Natural Resource Steward Internship Program is a collaboration between the Student Conservation Association (SCA) and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Each year, 26 Stewards are placed at the most scenic forest lands across the state. Participants perform a wide range of environmental stewardship duties while working at an array of sites ranging from high-traffic trailheads to remote backcountry wilderness areas.

Entering the field in late May, interns complete either a 16-week or 24-week term of service. Stewards work closely with DEC Foresters and Rangers, and receive training in Leave No Trace principles, invasive species monitoring and conservation work skills.

The SCA is a national non-profit changing lives through hands-on conservation work in the outdoors. Our program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks and community green spaces at various locations across the country. After working with the SCA, program participants emerge with increased environmental awareness, social responsibility and leadership skills.

Current Opportunities

Backcountry Natural Resource Stewards
The SCA is seeking Natural Resource Stewards to serve for 16 weeks engaging in various conservation and recreation support activities. Stewards will be responsible for patrolling marked state trails, designated campsites and parking areas. Stewards will also be responsible for explaining the significance of the natural resource where they are service, educating the public as to Leave No Trace principles, explaining rules and regulations, encouraging visitors to avoid trampling vegetation and to use designated campsites whenever possible. The work performed by the Natural Resource Stewards goes a long way toward ensuring the preservation of New York’s natural treasures for generations to come.

Additional duties include:

• Trail construction and maintenance
• Invasive species management
• Wildlife monitoring
• Shoreline restoration
• Emergency assistance, including search & rescue

The ideal candidate will possess the following:

• A love of the outdoors.
• Ability to work independently and be self-directed.
• Comfortability working in remote areas.
• Physically able to hike rugged terrain.
• Some background coursework in an environmental or outdoor field and have basic outdoor and backcountry skills.
• High interest in gaining knowledge and skills in outdoor education and land management.
• Has a growth mindset.

Available Work Sites:

• Moose River Plains (Central Adirondack Forest Preserve)
• The Whitney Wilderness (Adirondacks)
• St. Regis Canoe Area (Adirondacks)
• Lake George Wild Forest (Adirondacks)
• Siamese Ponds Wilderness (Adirondacks)
• Wilcox Lake Wild Forest (Adirondacks)
• Lows Lake (Adirondacks)
• Cranberry Lake (Adirondacks)
• Old Forge (Adirondacks)
• Independence (River Wild Forest – Adirondacks)
• Pharaoh Lake Wilderness (Adirondacks)
• The Salmon River (Near the East coast of Lake Ontario)
• Carpenters Falls (Finger Lakes Region)

Contact

Tori Yargeau (She/Her)
Natural Resource Steward Program Coordinator
Student Conservation Association
Email: vyargeau@thesca.org