Student Conservation Association

The SCA provides the opportunity to do hands-on conservation work during the summer. You will get the chance to learn all necessary backcountry survival skills. You will be camping and hiking in the forest. Many students have never had the chance to go camping and experience nature, now is a good time. Your conservation crew will consist of two leaders and seven other high school students. Students are grouped randomly, so no one in the group is from the same high school or area. This gives a good opportunity to meet knew people and make lifelong friendships. Basically, it’s a two week summer trip away from home that’s good for you and the environment! :]

They have various programs that can last from about two to four weeks in length. They have three different tracks (June 10th, July 8th, and July 22nd). You can join crews that go front country or back country. The programs all vary depending on what each applicant wants so the best way to determine if the program is right for you is to research yourself. It provides a life changing summer experience. If you have nothing much planned for summer and you want to make a difference in your state, send an application to the SCA!

I first heard about this program from a current OA teacher. You can come to me during school and I can give you a brochure about the program. I have already filled out the application (except payment) and I hope you will consider joining a conservation crew too. To apply create a profile on the SCA website and find the application. The application is really long (but it does end eventually). There is a $25 application fee, but the program is tuition-free! Not bad for providing everything you need for two weeks, plus valuable lifelong lessons.

For more information visit: www.thesca.org

Photo: SCA