Secretary of Natural Resources Office

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About the Program

The Conservation Internship Program is designed to close the gap in conservation education by offering paid internships to Cherokee students. Interns gain real-world experience across fields like agriculture, water conservation, wildlife protection, forestry, climate-smart land management, and others. The program fosters skills in sustainable natural resource management and conservation, builds connections with conservation professionals, and advances Cherokee Nation’s goals of environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. 

Our Goals are to…

• Develop Skills and Careers by providing Cherokee students with direct experience in conservation, fostering pathways to long-term careers in agriculture, natural resources, and related sciences.
• Promote Environmental Stewardship through expanding our impact on conservation and environmental health within Cherokee Nation and beyond.
• Support Community and Cultural Connections by strengthening ties between our students and the land, emphasizing conservation efforts that honor Cherokee traditions and values. 

Internship Focus Areas

Interns in the Conservation Internship Program work across several conservation areas, gaining exposure to diverse environmental disciplines such as:

• Water Quality and Management: Help monitor and preserve the health of our rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• Wildlife Conservation and Habitat Protection: Support efforts to protect Cherokee Nation’s diverse wildlife and natural habitats.
• Forestry and Land Stewardship: Assist in managing forest resources and promoting sustainable land use practices.
• Agriculture and Food Sovereignty: Engage with initiatives that enhance local food systems, promote sustainable agriculture, and support food sovereignty.
• Soil Health and Climate Resilience: Participate in projects focused on soil conservation and climate-smart land management.
• Cultural and Historic Preservation: Contribute to efforts that protect Cherokee cultural sites and ensure conservation aligns with Cherokee values. 

Program Features 

The Conservation Internship Program offers Cherokee students a unique opportunity to gain skills, make connections, and engage in impactful conservation work. Interns can expect the following program benefits:

Paid Internships: Interns may receive at a minimum $12-$15.25 per hour (pay scale based on education) along with an $800 stipend upon successful program completion and positive evaluation.

Flexible Terms: Placements are available for fall, spring, and summer terms, with options for part-time and full-time positions.

Professional Development: Interns participate in meaningful projects and receive mentorship from experienced professionals in conservation and natural resources.

Extracurricular Opportunities: Participate in field trips and conservation projects that foster professional growth.