Summary of Position: 

As the Wilderness Steward Program Intern, you will gain hands-on experience in public lands management through a non-profit partnership with federal land management agencies. You will develop skills in volunteer management, professional communication, and natural resource conservation. This is an unpaid internship.

The Wilderness Steward Program is the Idaho Conservation League’s volunteer program run out of Central Idaho. Wilderness Steward volunteers act as an extension of land management agencies to be eyes, ears, and hands on the trails of Central Idaho Wilderness areas.

Supervisor: Community Engagement Associate

Location: Ketchum, ID

Internship Dates: Mid-May 2025 to August 2025. Start and end dates can be flexible.

Commitment: 10-15 hours per week for approx. 13 weeks.

Internship Responsibilities:

• Help monitor and manage the Wilderness Steward Program email account, responding promptly to volunteer inquiries and providing updates as needed.
• Review and process Post-Trip Report Forms submitted by volunteers, ensuring accurate data entry and documentation. 
• Relay key information from Post-Trip Report Forms to the U.S. Forest Service and/or the National Parks Service in succinct, easy-to-read reports.
• Research and compile educational resources for Wilderness Stewards, including digital materials for ongoing training and development.
• Collaborate with Community Engagement Associate on bi-weekly volunteer update

Qualifications:

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong organizational abilities with attention to detail.
• Proficiency in data management and basic computer skills.
• Passion for conservation and outdoor stewardship.
• Able to walk moderate distances (2-3 miles), legally operate a vehicle, and lift 25-30 lbs.

Skills & Learning Opportunities:

• Public Lands Management: Gain a comprehensive understanding of land management agencies, federal land designations, and key legal frameworks, including the Wilderness Act and its enforcement.
• Volunteer Management: Develop skills in volunteer communication, inquiry response, and outreach.
• Authority of the Resource & Leave No Trace (LNT) Principles: Train in leading discussions on natural resource conservation, applying LNT principles, and mitigating human impact without formal enforcement authority.
• Professional Experience: Manage official email correspondence, participate in or lead volunteer training sessions, and contribute to conservation and stewardship initiatives.
• Technical & Outreach Skills: Build expertise in data management, community engagement, and professional communication within a nonprofit context.