The Department of Natural Resources is accepting applications from youth ages 14 to 18, and all applications must be postmarked or emailed by June 7.

Council members will explore Michigan’s outdoor recreation opportunities, work as a team to develop ideas to get other youth outside and discuss solutions to natural resource challenges – all under the guidance of the DNR.

“The council is a great opportunity for young people to discuss and share their unique perspective on all aspects of Michigan's outdoors,” said Ray Rustem, Youth Conservation Council advisor. “These youth get to make new friends that have similar interests, too. Several of our first members tell me they still maintain social media connections with members they met on the council. It is these associations that will grow and be a base for continuing our state’s remarkable outdoor tradition.”

A council appointment lasts two years, and members will be expected to participate in two to three meetings each year. During the meetings, members participate in discussions, conduct research and brainstorm ideas about ways to protect, promote and enhance outdoor recreation and the use of Michigan's natural resources. During their time on the council, members will meet with local department personnel to enhance their learning experience.

In addition, members will be expected to:

• Attend a Natural Resources Commission meeting.
• Write and submit three articles on outdoor activities for the Youth Conservation Council blog.
• Help develop and participate in local events to encourage kids to get outdoors.

The council is continuing to explore how to use social media to engage youth, and already has developed a Facebook page, established a youth blog and an Instagram account (#yccoutdoors) to share their favorite outdoor experiences.

“If spending time working with other young people who care about Michigan’s woods and water and the future of natural resources sounds like your kind of thing, please apply today,” Rustem said. “One of the best things about the Youth Conservation Council is the new faces and new ideas that join the conversation every year. These young people are helping shape the future of our outdoor landscape.”

Applications are available on the DNR website, along with frequently asked questions that offer more detail about the Youth Conservation Council.

Applications can be emailed to rustemr@michigan.gov. Physical applications must be postmarked by June 7 and can be mailed to:

NRC Youth Conservation Council

ATTN: Raymond Rustem

P.O. Box 30028 Lansing, MI 48909

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. The Youth Conservation Council is an important part of reaching these goals. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Contact: Ray Rustem, 517-284-6070