Montgomery County Maryland Forestry Board

Montgomery County Forest Conservancy
District Board

Natural Resources Careers Conference

Join high school students and professionals from across Maryland to explore future
careers and college studies in natural resources…

Natural Resources Careers Conference (NRCC)

Sunday, July 19 - Saturday, July 25, 2009

Hickory Environmental Education Center in Garrett County, Maryland

Presented by:
Maryland Association of Forest Conservancy District Boards
and Maryland Forestry Boards Foundation (MFBF)
in partnership with Maryland Dept. of Natural Resources - Forest Service
and Allegany College of Maryland

Join field professionals and high school students from across the state for seven days of intense instruction and fun at the Hickory Environmental Education Center in Garrett County, Maryland.

Natural resource professionals and dedicated volunteers have developed the extensive and relevant curriculum. Traditional Forestry will be the main focus of this educational experience with the inclusion of GIS and GPS technology. Urban Forestry and Watershed ecology are also emphasized.

Students may choose to earn two college credits (fee required) from Allegany College of Maryland. To earn the credits, the student must attend the entire week, complete a short exam, and present a team management plan. The credits will transfer to most community colleges in Maryland and several four year colleges and universities.

This co-educational conference provides a real opportunity for high school students interested in a career in Natural Resources to learn from industry professionals and develop contacts that could lead to future employment and a career in natural resources.

Immerse yourself in foretsry, wildlife, ecology, fisheries, watershed management, natural resources management and conservation through hands-on field and classroom exercises.
Use GIS, GPS, computer simulation, and other field tools related to careers in natural resources.
Opt for college credit in beginning forestry (fee required).
Be eligible for three $500 college scholarships designated for forestry, arboriculture, urban forestry and natural resources.
Talk with natural resource professionals and learn about college programs offered in these fields.
Stay in rustic cabins in the scenic mountains of Garrett County. Enjoy hearty meals and snacks every day.

How to Apply

Please follow these steps to apply by April 30, 2009:

1.   Complete the NRCC Application Form downloaded from the website after determining that you are available to attend
       the NRCC in western Maryland the entire week of the program. Early applications are strongly encouraged. Late
       applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis if there are still openings to fill.

2. Contact your local Forestry Board to show your interest in applying and for more information. Find the contact info for
       all 24 Maryland Forestry Boards at www.mdforest.sailorsite.net

3.   Mail your completed application with two letters of reference to your local County/City Forestry Board or to:

      NRCC
      Maryland Forest Service
      130 McKinneytown Road
      North East, MD 21901

4. Prepare for a brief interview with representatives of your local Forestry Board, which approves each applicant for
       NRCC and may have scholarships for the $300 fee plus a $50.00 student activity fee.

5. You will be notified of acceptance beginning in early June.

Visit the website for application details:
www.mdforest.sailorsite.net
or
www.dnr.state.md.us/forests/nrcareersconf.html