Are you passionate about ensuring communities have access to quality spaces for recreation? The Delaware State Parks Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the stewardship of lands across the state, which are protected in perpetuity for recreation through this landmark federal program, as well as a complimentary Delaware program. We are looking for a self-motivated individual with a strong interest in environmental or recreation, natural resource planning, health promotion, or a related field, with an aptitude for fieldwork, and the ability to work independently.
Interns will also participate in intern-wide professional development activities and experiential learning opportunities that may require them to be off-site or away from their placement. Each intern will complete a personalized “demonstration of learning” project. At the conclusion of the internship, all interns will present their projects during a poster session for peers and Delaware State Parks staff.
What We’re Looking For:
- Adventurous Spirit: Comfort working alone in outdoor settings, from urban parks to wooded and rural areas, in various weather conditions.
- Attention to Detail: Ability to carefully observe and report findings from site visits.
- Strong Communication Skills: Confident interacting with municipal park agencies to foster positive relationships and discuss stewardship responsibilities.
- Physical Capability: Readiness to hike through diverse terrain and navigate natural landscapes.
- Tech Savviness: Familiarity with GIS tools or a willingness to learn, as mapping and geospatial data will be a component of the role.
- Use of Tools: Use of hand tools such as a mallet and screwdriver for sign installation.
- Valid Driver’s License: A state vehicle will be provided for travel to properties across Delaware.
What You’ll Do:
This role blends outdoor exploration with technical and interpersonal tasks. As Land and Water Conservation Fund Intern, you’ll:
- Travel throughout Delaware using a provided vehicle to visit and inspect protected parklands.
- Ensure parklands are being used for recreation, are attractive and properly maintained, open and accessible to the general public, and are signed with their funding source.
- Collaborate with other land management entities (municipalities, counties, other state agencies) to ensure program compliance.
- Conduct GIS mapping and other related office work to document your findings.
- In cooperation with land management entity, install signs that indicate project funding.
- Use GPS-based technology to map the location of program signs, as well as other identified compliance issues.
- Work with the Parks Land Preservation Office to update deed information on LWCF properties to ensure recreation restriction is known during property transactions.
Why Join Us?
- Gain practical experience in environmental planning and natural resource management.
- Build skills in GIS, GPS data collection, and stakeholder management.
- Be part of a team dedicated to advancing recreation access in Delaware.
This internship is an excellent fit for students or recent graduates in planning, natural resources, recreation studies, health promotion, or a related field. If you’re ready to explore Delaware’s conserved lands and contribute to their protection, we encourage you to apply.