Registration Underway for DNR’s Summer Career Academy Camp

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is accepting applications now through Nov. 30 for its 2024 Career Academy.

The Academy is a week-long summer camp for current 9th, 10th, and 11th graders interested in exploring careers in natural resources management and takes place July 21-27, 2024, at the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center in Mansfield and the Jekyll 4-H Center on Jekyll Island.

During the academy, students will have the opportunity to learn about a variety of natural resources careers, including habitat stewardship, law enforcement, state parks hospitality, fisheries and wildlife management, and coastal conservation.

Curriculum

Career Academy students will learn about all major aspects of working for DNR. Hands-on activities are designed to introduce young people to fisheries and wildlife management, conservation law enforcement, and hospitality and historic interpretation.

As part of the Career Academy, students will take part in:

  • Electrofishing and fish habitat creation
  • Prescribed burns and land management
  • Boating and firearms safety
  • Trailblazing and state park management
  • Saltwater fisheries surveys and methods

They will work alongside field professionals and receive hands-on training from game wardens, park managers, wildlife, fisheries, marine technicians, and biologists. Students will also travel across the state visiting wildlife management areas, state parks, fish hatcheries, historic sites, and Georgia’s coast.

In addition to learning about natural resources careers, students will also have the opportunity to make connections with current DNR employees and learn about their career paths.

Students may also choose to earn dual enrollment credit that can be used in Fish and Wildlife and Conservation programs at many technical colleges.

“The DNR Career Academy is a great opportunity for students to learn about the many different and exciting careers that are available in natural resources management,” said Walter Rabon, Georgia Commissioner of Natural Resources. “Students will have the chance to work alongside experienced professionals and gain valuable hands-on experience. We encourage all interested students to apply.”

The application period for the 2024 DNR Career Academy closes on November 30, 2023. Students must apply online at GaDNR.org/CareerAcademy.

 

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