National Association of Conservation Districts

NACD Internship Program

The NACD Intern works with the Legislative Affairs and Communication staff to advance the association’s legislative agenda. He/she learns the legislative process and gains valuable hands-on experience. The intern gains a working knowledge of Congress and federal natural resource and environmental agencies and an understanding of the roles conservation districts and state conservation agencies play in the development of natural resource, agricultural and environmental policies.

NACD interns are typically college juniors or seniors who are interested in the environment and/or agriculture. They traditionally work a 10-week summer internship or a 15-week fall/spring internship. Interns are expected to work full time, but special arrangements can be made if the intern needs to take classes locally to receive college credit. A performance-based stipend is awarded at the end of the internship. The intern is expected to find their own housing, but staff can provide assistance and advice with the process. 

Responsibilities:
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Assisting in summarizing and disseminating policy information to conservation leaders;
• Assisting with coordinating grassroots outreach efforts;
• Representing NACD at meetings, press conferences, receptions and other events;
• Helping write and edit newsletters and other special reports relative to policy and programs;
• Attending hearings and briefings on subjects relative to private lands conservation funding and policies;
• Interpreting data and creates reports and charts; and
• Performing any and all related duties that advance the mission and purposes of NACD.

How to Apply:
To apply, send a completed application, cover letter and resume to Lisa Lerwick at 509 Capitol Court, NE, Washington D.C. 20002, or email to lisa-lerwick@nacdnet.org.

NACD accepts applications year-round, but tends to make hiring decisions closer to the appropriate deadline.

Fall Session: 15 weeks, September through mid-December
Application deadline: June 15

Spring Session: 15 weeks, mid-January through April
Application deadline: October 15

Summer Session: 10 weeks, June through mid-August
Application deadline: February 15