By Blake Jackson
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), Missouri Prairie Foundation (MPF), and Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF) have launched a new internship program for students at State Fair Community College (SFCC) and the University of Central Missouri (UCM). Set to begin in summer 2026, applications will open in January.
The program aims to give students pursuing degrees in natural resources, agriculture, or environmental studies hands-on experience in conservation and habitat management.
Two interns will be selected to work primarily in MDC’s Lone Buffalo District, covering Johnson, Pettis, and Benton counties on both public and private lands.
“This opportunity offers students a deeper understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities of professionals in this field, while also allowing them to demonstrate their potential for employment in the future,” said MDC Deputy Director Aaron Jeffries. “We are happy to guide the next generation in conservation and resource management.”
Interns will engage in a variety of projects over a 12-14 week summer term, with optional week-long opportunities during the fall, winter, and spring. Initial responsibilities will focus on habitat management and area maintenance in the Lone Buffalo District.
Students who complete two years may extend their internship into a third year, working in other MDC program areas.
MCHF will provide a $5,000 scholarship to each intern upon completing their first summer, with the same amount awarded for subsequent years if the student returns.
“The Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation is honored to support the Lone Buffalo Internship Program,” said Tricia Burkhardt, executive director of MCHF.
“This demonstrates how partners can come together to foster a unique learning opportunity and provide financial support to students who are passionate about our natural resources.”
“This internship program will provide stewardship to irreplaceable prairies and other natural communities in Johnson, Pettis, and Benton counties," said Carol Davit, executive director of the Missouri Prairie Foundation.
"In addition, the program will help train natural community stewards for the future. An experienced workforce is critically important to safeguard Missouri's natural heritage for generations to come."
MDC will oversee the interns, providing training, work plans, and equipment. SFCC and UCM students with at least 30 credit hours and entering their second year are eligible to apply from January 1 to February 1, 2026, with final selections announced by March 15.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-imagixian
Categories: Missouri, Education, General