Land stewardship Internships

INHF land stewardship interns learn essential field skills.

Note: Land Stewardship Internship applications are now closed. Interested applicants should check back in January of 2013.

Help restore Iowa's natural beauty while learning about ecology, land management, and wildlife.

Job description
Land Stewardship interns work very hard to maintain and restore native landscapes. Last year, interns helped INHF to manage more than 20 sites throughout the state. These interns conduct needed land management and restoration on prairies, wetlands, savannas and other natural areas owned or protected by INHF. Interns will also assist with equipment or building maintenance when necessary (training provided as needed). Students selected for INHF's land stewardship program will work closely with landowners, other Iowa conservation organizations (both government and independent) and working professionals in the field. Participation in the annual Loess Hills Prairie Seminar will expose interns to conservationists and organizations in a concentrated setting. The program will give interns vital skills and experience for a career in conservation or land management.

Work examples
Invasive species removal, shrub removal, oak savanna and prairie restoration, stream bank stabilization, prairie planting, coordination with landowners and Iowa conservation organizations at sites across the entire state.

Skills/qualifications
This internship is physically demanding, requiring fit, motivated individuals, but provides excellent hands-on experience with natural land management. Interns will work very hard in all kinds of weather, but -- especially if they ask questions -- will gain invaluable hands-on experience and knowledge about ecological restoration. Driving to various work sites is required, so interns must have a working car. Students of any grade level, even freshmen, are eligible for this internship. Experience and/or farm background helps, but enjoying demanding, outdoor work is crucial. Past interns in this position have included Animal Ecology, Botany, Biology, Environmental Studies or Environmental Science majors and several other majors. This particular internship requires someone willing to work hard outdoors in all conditions (especially summer heat).

NOTE: Because of the large coverage area, applicants must have the ability to travel and the willingness to camp outdoors overnight. This internship is supervised by INHF's land stewardship staff.

Availability
INHF selects 8 to 10 full-time interns each summer, who work together as a crew. The job begins in mid-May and ends after the first week of August. These interns work 40 hours a week (Monday through Thursday, 10 hours each). Camping at parks near the work sites is required.