College students ages 18-22 who are interested in a nature-focused summer gig might consider applying for a spot in the Youth Conservation Corps program at Forbes State Forest, based in Laughlintown.
The YCC program is sponsored by the Loyalhanna Watershed Association and the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry. It is an eight-week internship, running from June 5 to July 28, that involves helping with conservation projects in Forbes State Forest and other recreational sites and natural areas available to the public.
Up to four interns will be selected to serve as registered conservation volunteers with the Bureau of Forestry.
YCC crews in past years have blazed and maintained recreational trails, constructed pedestrian bridges and observation platforms, and completed stream and pond improvements.
Interns also will have opportunities to take part in engaging outdoor activities under the direction of DCNR’s environmental education specialist. Past outings have included camping, electrofishing and caving expeditions.
Each intern who successfully completes the program will be awarded a $3,000 scholarship toward their education.
The YCC program has operated for more than 40 years with support from the local Katherine Mabis McKenna Foundation.
April 7 is the deadline to apply. An application form can be found on the watershed association website at loyalhannawatershed.org by selecting “Education & Outreach” under the “Programs” heading. For more information, contact watershed association Executive Director Susan Huba at susan@loyalwater.com or 724-238-7560, ext. 1#.
