From January through April, Conservation Steward Corps members teach environmental education to more than 1,000 third, fourth, and fifth grade students in Manchester, Allenstown, Deerfield, and Hooksett School Districts.   Collaborating in teaching teams of 3-4 to develop a 9-week curriculum, members incorporate NH State Science Standards while fostering connections between the students and their natural world.  Teaching teams also lead after school activities in Manchester  via the Boys and Girls Club and 21st Century After School programs.  Upon completion of the education season, members enter into conservation season from April through October.  Crews contribute to building new trails, maintaining existing trail networks, eradicating invasive plant species, restoring and preserving historical structures, and maintaining visitor facilities, such as pavilions and cabins.  A typical field project or “hitch” will consist of collaborating as part of a 6-7 person crew for 11 days in the field.  

Conservation Steward Corps members dedicate 10 months of their lives to serve in communities throughout New Hampshire while contributing as active community members in a residential program called the SCA NH AmeriCorps.  For more general information about the SCA NH AmeriCorps and other positions available within this program, please visit https://www.thesca.org/NHcorps. 

Location Description
Bear Brook State Park is the largest developed state park in New Hampshire, with over 10,000 acres of land. The home of New Hampshire Corps for nearly 20 years, Bear Brook gives corps members a variety of recreational opportunities as well as beautiful scenery to call home while participating in their 10-month service commitment.

During education season, Conservation Stewardship members primarily serve in Manchester, the largest and most diverse city in New Hampshire. Once conservation season begins, members get to see the full beauty of the Granite State in a variety of locations, including state parks and forests.

Training Provided:

• Environmental Education training
• Wilderness First Responder/CPR certification
• Conservation Workskills training
• Grip-hoist and Rigging or Chainsaw certification
• Leave No Trace training
• Leadership, Conflict Resolution, and Teamwork Skills training