Natural Resource Stewardship Career Pathways

Geographic Scope: California statewide

Focus Areas:

• Career development and training in natural resources
• Job skills development for underrepresented communities in natural resources field
• Hands-on experience in invasive species removal, habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, and fuel reduction work
• Mentorship and exposure to career opportunities in parks

Eligibility:

• Community and nonprofit organizations
• Organizations serving historically underrepresented and underinvested communities
• Organizations providing practical professional experience and job training

Program Description:
A pilot grants program supporting organizations that broaden access, mentorship, and training to communities traditionally underrepresented in the natural resource field. The program aims to diversify the workforce in California State Parks and outdoor spaces. Grantees provide hands-on natural resource job training skills, mentorship, and exposure to career opportunities. Additionally, grantees connect participants to job networks, provide career advice, and offer resources such as equipment, wages, meals, and travel reimbursement.

Background: Launched to address the need for trained stewards across California to implement climate-resilient solutions. Historically, accessing training and job skills development in natural resources has not been readily accessible for all Californians, yet rewarding career opportunities exist throughout the state.

Application Process

Application details not fully specified in provided content. For specific application requirements, deadlines, and submission instructions, contact Parks California directly or visit their grants page.