Teenage conservationists, assemble! The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is looking for high school student leaders from diverse backgrounds to apply for the Conservation Teen Advisory Council (ConTAC).
ConTAC members will get an in-depth look into how ODNR operates, the available careers, and develop service projects related to conservation.
The goal of the group is to empower young people to protect and preserve Ohio’s natural resources.
Applications are being accepted now through Thursday, June 5.
“Students who are passionate about conservation play a key role in safeguarding Ohio’s natural resources,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “I look forward to welcoming a new group of young leaders, helping them learn from ODNR experts, and seeing the impact they will make. Each class brings fresh perspectives and enthusiasm, which are invaluable to our mission.”
Council members will get the chance to explore careers in the natural resources sector and develop valuable networking and leadership skills.
Once a month, ConTAC members will meet with different ODNR divisions and learn about the different career paths, what staff do on a day-to-day basis, and participate in hands-on activities.
For example, the Division of Forestry has introduced students to career paths like wildland firefighting, forest management, and forest health.
Students have also had the opportunity to learn how to plant trees at the Buckeye State Tree Nursery.
In addition to the monthly meetings, ConTAC members will develop service projects related to conservation.
Projects that have been done in the past include tree plantings and trash cleanups in lakes and streams.
ConTAC provides students with an opportunity to take on leadership roles and to meet new peers from across the state who share similar interests.
Students must be entering grades 9 through 12 for the 2025-2026 school year to apply.
Members for the 2025-2026 ConTAC class will be selected in early summer 2025.
To learn more about the program and application instructions, visit ODNR’s Conservation Teen Advisory Council webpage.
