Pinellas Seeks Applications For Ranger Naturalist Program

ST. PETERSBURG, FL – High school students in Pinellas County can earn some volunteer hours – and an appreciation for their local ecology – by participating in the Ranger Naturalist Program this summer.

The Ranger Naturalist Program aims to develop the environmental awareness and leadership skills of high school students through learning and volunteer service. Students between 15 and 18 years old can apply for the camp, which will be held on Thursdays, Fridays and some Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from June 8 to July 28 at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive NE in St. Petersburg.

Students will take part in learning activities, including nature hikes, guided canoe trips, invasive plant removal days and coastal cleanups. Volunteers will be trained to assist guests visiting Weedon Island’s education center as well as develop individual projects that support the center’s mission. Ranger Naturalist participants will be expected to complete their necessary 12 to 16 volunteer hours per week.

Participation in the program can also contribute to volunteer hours needed to apply for Bright Futures scholarships. Bright Futures recipients may need anywhere between 30 and 100 minimum community service hours for eligibility, depending on the type of scholarship.

The application deadline is Thursday, May 18. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance by Friday, May 26. If accepted, a $75 program fee will cover some meals and refreshments, certifications acquired during the course and a membership in 4-H.

To apply, download an application at www.weedonislandpreserve.org/summer-camps.htm.

For more information, e-mail Weedon Island Preserve education support specialists Stephanie Pego at spego@pinellascounty.org or Allison Saltoft at asoftloft@co.pinellas.fl.us.

Photography provided courtesy of Pinellas County Marketing and Communications Department