News release shared by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Office of Planning and Policy, July 8, 2024.

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is excited to open a new round of recruitment for the NextGen Advisory Council.

The Council strives to have members with a broad range of cultures, experiences, and perspectives from across the Commonwealth to inform the agency’s work and advance Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). Council members will aid in creating lasting change and necessary conditions to ensure all Pennsylvanians can connect to public lands, natural resources, recreation, and conservation.  The Council is accepting new applications through July 31, 2024 with priority given to applicants ranging from high school students to age 35. 

Benefits to Participants:

  • Learning about careers in conservation: science, environment, nature, advocacy, etc.
  • Gaining leadership experience while enacting change to benefit the environment and outdoor experience for all
  • Learning and strengthen professional skills including writing, presenting, policy development, networking, and more
  • Tapping into opportunities for outdoor activities and sports in parks, forests, and trails
  • Meeting and working with DCNR staff and leaders on agency initiatives and projects, sharing the unique perspectives of a younger generation
  • Helping your community by working with DCNR to ensure equitable access to outdoor resources in PA
  • Meeting and collaborating with other Pennsylvanians who share the goal of inclusion in conservation and outdoor recreation

You do not need any experience in conservation or government to apply – only a willingness to share your ideas and work in a supportive community to promote conservation and recreation for all – including future generations.

Participation Expectations:

  • This Council membership is a three-year term commitment, with the option to serve additional, consecutive term
  • Attend regularly scheduled Council meetings held quarterly in the evening on the third Tuesdays of January, April, July, and October. Meetings are virtual and include educational presentations by DCNR staff, as well as discussions of topics and projects prioritized by DCNR and/or the Council.
  • Participate in optional committees, networking, and special project meetings. These are also held in the evenings on the third Tuesday of the month and scheduled in between quarterly meetings to further Council initiatives and encourage relationship building among DCNR staff and Council members.

To apply, follow this link: DCNR NextGen Advisory Council Application

DCNR NextGen Advisory Council Webpage: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Equity/NextGenCouncil/Pages/default.aspx 

If you want to learn more about the Council or have questions, please reach out to us at [email protected]