NYS Natural Resource Stewardship Program
New York State – Department of Environmental Conservation
The Natural Resource Steward Program is a collaboration between the Student Conservation Association and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, which places a cohort of 26 Stewards across many of the most scenic forest lands in the state. The individuals perform a wide range of stewardship duties, and work in environments ranging from high-visitation trailheads to remote backcountry wilderness.
Interns enrolled in the program complete either a16 week or 24 week term of service, entering the field in late May. Stewards work closely with DEC Foresters and Rangers, and receive training in Leave-No-Trace, Invasive Species Monitoring, and Conservation Work Skills.
The Natural Resource Stewards work in numerous capacities relating to Natural Resource management. This includes:
- Providing visitor education on Leave-No-Trace principles
- Trail construction and maintenance
- Invasive species management
- Wildlife Monitoring
- Shoreline restoration
- Emergency assistance and search & rescue
The Ideal Candidate for the Natural Resource Steward Program:
- Is able to work independently and be self-directed.
- Has some background coursework in an environmental or outdoor field and have basic outdoor and backcountry skills.
- Hopes to gain knowledge and skillsets in outdoor education and land management.
- Has a growth mindset.
The work performed by the Natural Resource Stewards goes a long way toward ensuring the preservation of New York’s natural treasures for many years to come.
Individual Positions
- Wilcox Lake Wild Forest
- High Peaks Wilderness
- Central Adirondack Forest Preserve
- Lake George Wild Forest
- Whitney Wilderness
- Zoar
- Old Forge
- Catskill Mountain Park R3
- Cranberry Lake
Interested in becoming a Natural Resource Steward? Contact [email protected].
