Student Conservation Association

SCA provides college and high school-aged members with hands-on conservation service opportunities in virtually every field imaginable, from tracking grizzlies through the Tetons to restoring desert ecosystems and teaching environmental education at Washington, D.C.’s Urban Tree House.  We are truly building the next generation of conservation leaders.

National Crews

In these month-long summer projects, up to eight high school students from around the country are paired with experienced SCA crew leaders to build trails and restore habitat in national parks and on other public lands. SCA's National Crews provide a formative experience, as members serve nature and challenge themselves, individually and as a team.  In the process, they get a lot of important work done. Learn more about  National Crews here.

Community Programs

Offering year-round training and service opportunities, SCA’s Community Programs engage diverse high school students in major U.S. cities who may lack access to the natural environment and green job opportunities.  SCA currently operates Community Programs in Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Houston, Jacksonville, Milwaukee, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, the San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle, Stamford, and Washington, DC. Visit our Community Programs section to learn more.

Conservation Internships

For college and graduate students, as well as other qualified individuals, SCA internships provide the opportunity to learn from resource management professionals, gain tangible skills and experience, and make a substantial contribution to our natural and cultural treasures. SCA Internships are available throughout the year, in all conservation disciplines, and range in length from 12 to 52 weeks.  All positions are expense-paid and most offer insurance and education awards.  Search internship opportunities.

Conservation Corps

In this SCA program, college and graduate students and other qualified participants address specific, urgent conservation challenges.  Projects may include mitigating wildland fire risks, eradicating invasive plants while protecting native species, restoring desert lands scarred by off-road vehicles, or providing environmental education in community classrooms.  SCA Corps programs, some of which are offered in cooperation with AmeriCorps, run for up to 10 months, and members often share a communal residence.  Learn more about Conservation Corps programs.