Students can apply for Conservation Corps program

The Hawai‘i Youth Conservation Corps is recruiting students for its free, hands-on summer educational program from June 16 through July 25. Student participants learn about environmental conservation, native and endangered plant and animal species, Hawai‘i’s cultural relationship to the land, teamwork and more. 

Participants learn in the field, camping, hiking and working in breathtaking habitats in a variety of ecosystems with Hawai‘i conservation agencies. They travel inter-island, including a team trip to Kahoolawe. Team leader and member positions are available on Oahu, Maui, Molokai, the Big Island and Kauai.

Participants receive CPR, first aid and power-tool training, a $1,000 stipend and three University of Hawai‘i college credits, if they are eligible. Team leaders receive stipends of $3,000 plus a $1,000 educational award. There is no cost to apply and all program expenses including travel, food and lodging are paid for by the sponsors, which are the State Department of Land and Natural Resources, Kamehameha Schools, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and AmeriCorps. 

Students who enjoy the outdoors, are interested in environmental conservation or volunteerism, want to learn more about Hawai‘i and enjoy hiking and working in a team should apply.  Academic performance is not a selection criterium. Applicants must be between their high school and college sophomore years. No previous experience is necessary.

Team leader applicants must have completed the sophomore year in college, be at least 21 years old and have previous experience in conservation and/or leadership. Dealine to apply is March 7. Click here for more information and to apply.