Mission RCD Service Learning FellowAt — Mission Resource Conservation District
Students will have the opportunity to support Mission RCD’s conservation programs through a combination of hands-on fieldwork and administrative projects. Field opportunities may include attending volunteer site visits and planting days at farms and conservation sites throughout North San Diego County. These experiences will allow students to engage directly with local conservation efforts and gain exposure to on-the-ground natural resource management. Students may also assist with administrative and outreach tasks, including updating social media, website content, and newsletters. These projects can be completed remotely and provide opportunities to develop communication, outreach, and organizational skills while supporting Mission RCD’s programs and community engagement efforts. Field activities are optional, allowing students to participate based on their interests, availability, and fellowship-hour requirements.
By the end of this opportunity, students will have gained hands-on experience in community-based conservation and a better understanding of how natural resource conservation is implemented at the local level. Students will learn about the role of resource conservation districts and how technical assistance, habitat restoration, and conservation projects support healthy ecosystems and resilient communities. Through field activities, students will gain exposure to conservation site visits, planting and habitat restoration, and working directly with landowners, volunteers, and conservation professionals. Students participating in outreach and administrative projects will develop practical skills in environmental communication, social media, website and newsletter content, and community engagement. Overall, students will strengthen their communication, teamwork, organizational, and professional skills while gaining experience that can help prepare them for careers in conservation, environmental education, natural resource management, and related fields.
Students will receive an orientation to Mission RCD, its conservation programs, and the role of resource conservation districts, along with training specific to their assigned projects. Fieldwork training will cover site safety, conservation practices, professional conduct, and appropriate use of tools and equipment. Students assisting with outreach will receive guidance on environmental communication, social media, website, and newsletter content. Throughout the opportunity, students will also develop professional skills in communication, teamwork, organization, time management, and working with community partners.
Field activities may take place at farms and conservation sites and may involve uneven terrain, outdoor conditions, hand tools, and exposure to heat, sun, dust, and vegetation. Students will receive site-specific safety guidance and should wear appropriate clothing, closed-toe shoes, sun protection, and any required PPE. Students will be supervised during field activities and will not be expected to perform tasks beyond their training or abilities. Remote administrative and outreach activities do not require fieldwork.
N/A
| Hours | Duration |
|---|---|
| 10 | hours per placement |