Applications open for youth conservation summer program

Kupu, Hawaii’s leading conservation and youth education nonprofit organization, has announced that applications are now open for this summer’s Hawaii Youth Conservation Corps. This seven-week opportunity runs from June 7 through July 23, providing young adults between the ages of 17-22 with meaningful field service experience into the world of conservation while giving back to the community.

Positions are available throughout Hawaii Island at sites such as Waimea Valley alongside Pohaha I Ka Lani; the Kuamo‘o battlefield and burial grounds alongside Aloha Kuamoo Aina; Kiholo State Park, and other organizations like The Nature Conservancy, Waikoloa Dry forest initiative, Kona Hema and Ka‘u preserve, Ulu Maui Puanui, Puiwaawaa and several state agencies.

Participants will be paid for their service as team members or team leaders, and also receive an AmeriCorps Education Award, CPR/first aid certification, and priceless on-the-job training. No prior environmental experience is necessary. The ideal applicant is someone with a positive attitude, is curious about nature and has a desire to learn through hands-on service. Participants will serve alongside environmental and culturally focused organizations within a range of ecosystems, including wetlands, dryland forests, lo‘i kalo (taro patches), and loko i‘a (ancient Hawaiian fishponds).

Applications are due Feb. 26. For more information on the HYCC Summer Program or to fill out the brief application, visit www.kupuhawaii.org/hycc-summer/.