Crow’s Nest Preserve is made up of 712 acres of protected lands along French Creek. It is part of a network of nature preserves owned and managed by the not-for-profit organization Natural Lands in the greater Philadelphia area. The preserve is both a showcase of responsible management practices for natural areas and a place where the public can connect with the natural world. The preserve hosts a variety of educational programs, including after-school programs, a teen service program, and a summer camp. 

The Intern will work with the Preserve Manager and the educator to assist in managing the preserve as well as to plan and run the educational programs. In this position, the intern will gain experience in a variety of semi-structured and informal educational techniques, as well as learn about the workings of a land trust, become familiar with local flora, and gain experience in land stewardship techniques. This is a hands-on position with training provided. If the internship is being completed for academic credit, Natural Lands will work with the intern and the school to ensure that academic requirements are met.

The Intern will assist the Educator and other instructors with all aspects of the education programs including, planning, leading, setting and cleaning up experiential activities. They will assist the Preserve Manager to remove invasive plants, mow lawns and trails, maintain native plant gardens, and to restore natural areas and hedgerows when education programs are not in session. Tools used in the course of the work include power string trimmers, brush cutters, hand and chain saws, pruners, lawnmower, trucks, and tractors.

Internship Period: September 2024 through August 2025