Beaver Creek Reserve’s Naturalist intern program has two goals. The first goal is to provide the intern with quality training and hands-on experiences as a naturalist. The second goal is to have the naturalist intern assist the Education Department with all parts of providing a variety of environmental, educational, social, and recreational programming.

OVERVIEW: Beaver Creek Reserve (BCR) is an environmental center founded in 1947. The 400-acre reserve includes the Eau Claire County Youth Camp, Wise Nature Center, Citizen Science Center and the Hobbs Observatory. This unique combination of facilities provides a special atmosphere where people, young and old alike, can discover, learn and appreciate the mysteries and miracles of the world where we live. Beaver Creek Reserve is the bridge that connects what youth and adults learn in their everyday environment and adds real-life tangible experiences that support growth and understanding of the natural world.

SERVICE DESCRIPTION: Beaver Creek Reserve’s Naturalist intern program has two goals. The first goal is to provide the intern with quality training and hands-on experiences as a naturalist. The second goal is to have the naturalist intern assist the Education Department with all parts of providing a variety of environmental, educational, social, and recreational programming.

MAIN SERVICE DUTIES:

Education Outreach

• Assist in conducting interpretive presentations on a wide range of natural history and conservation topics to audiences of all ages.
• Develop written curriculum based on Wisconsin DPI standards.
• Responsible for leading nature hikes, team building exercises, and outdoor skills programs.
• Develop and lead seasonal environmental and recreational programs.
• Help organize and conduct summer camps.
• Develop and conduct online programming for youth and adult.

Program Upkeep

• Assist in the development of interpretive displays and exhibits.
• Assist with minor maintenance and care of exhibits, buildings and live animals.
• Assist with upkeep and development of new elements to Nature Nooks, youth outdoor exploration areas.
• Assist with upkeep and development of new elements to BCR Obstacle Course.
• Assist with development and upkeep of trail signs and Storybook Hiking Trail.
• Help with operation of the butterfly house, greenhouse, invasive species removal and garden projects.

Special Events

• Assist with special events; for example: French Toast Breakfast, Maple Syruping, Candlelight Snowshoe Hike, Native Plant Sale, Butterfly Fest, Wisconsin Master Naturalist training and more.
• Assist with recording and tracking volunteer hours.

Program Marketing

• Assist in advertising for upcoming educational programs, special events, and volunteer opportunities.
• Assist with website updates and social media promotions for upcoming programs and events.
• Develop educational information for social media.
• Create interpretive posters and signage for programs and events.

Grant Writing

• Research grant opportunities and apply for grants to fund specific education projects and programs.