Teen Programming

Conservation Council

Are you interested in a career in conservation or environmental science? How about spending time outdoors with others who want to learn more about the landscapes that make Sonoma County special? The Conservation Council is an equity-based teen youth-development and academic program that empowers participants to conduct conservation research on protected lands across the county. Teens work together and with educators, conservationists, and scientists to conduct research, learn about conservation efforts, visit preserves, and gain outdoor and leadership skills. 

Council Members and Leads participate in weekly Tuesday evening workshops and biweekly expedition days on alternating Saturdays during the academic school year. Team research days are held once a month on Saturdays to provide extended time to work collaboratively toward the completion of a research paper. During weekly workshops and monthly team research days, participants conduct research and analyze data to author a research paper and a formal research poster. Participants are also engaged in learning and discussing topics including conservation, ecology, climate change, environmental justice, and personal and professional development. Expedition day activities include field research, nature journaling, hiking, kayaking, animal tracking, and team-building opportunities.  

Participants receive stipends paid in two installments: first year Council Members receive a $1,500 stipend and Council Leads (returning participants) receive $2,000. During a shopping trip with staff, participants are allotted up to $200 to purchase necessary outdoor equipment like waterproof hiking boots, water bottle or backpack. All hours of attendance through the program are eligible as service hours. 

Applications are currently closed for fall 2024