The Conservation Internship Program provides Cherokee students with valuable, hands-on experience in conservation, natural resources, and environmental stewardship. Interns work across areas such as wildlife conservation, water quality, forestry, agriculture, and cultural preservation. This paid internship offers the opportunity to build essential skills, develop career pathways, and contribute to conservation efforts that uphold the well-being of our land, culture, and community. Cherokee students aged 18 years or older can apply here.
For additional information on the Conservation Internship Program.
Natural Resources are the bedrock for the overall health of our tribal citizens, our local wildlife, and our native plant species. The relationship between tribes and their natural resources is dynamic, intertwining a broad spectrum of regulatory compliance with deeply rooted connections among native lands, tribal culture, and sacred places. The Office of the Secretary of Natural Resources is responsible for promoting environmental quality and sustainable land practices for future generations of Cherokee citizens.
The Cherokee Nation Constitution reserves a cabinet - level position to oversee the Executive Office of Natural Resources, currently held by Christina Justice. Prior to her appointment to this post in 2023, Secretary Justice served as the Chief Administrator of Operations for the Natural Resources Department. She has served the tribe in various capacities for nearly two decades. Secretary Justice makes natural resources a fundamental priority, administering the tribe’s environmental programs, conservation, and sustainability initiatives, and advising the Chief and Council of the Cherokee Nation on related public policy matters.
