Wildlife Leadership Academy Now Accepting Nominations For 2026 Residential Field School Experiences For Students 14 to 17

The Wildlife Leadership Academy in Lock Haven is now accepting nominations for the 2026 residential Field School experiences to empower students 14 to 17 to become certified Conservation Ambassadors.

The Academy's 5-day residential field schools focus on species like white-tailed deer, bass, brook trout, wild turkey, and bear. 

Students will gain knowledge, leadership skills, and the confidence to lead conservation efforts in their home communities!

By submitting a nomination, you’ll help the Academy identify enthusiastic high school students who have an interest in wildlife, conservation, and natural resources. 

Every nominated student will receive a mailed invitation to apply, including information on what to expect from the program.

Conservation Ambassadors receive:

-- Certificate designating them as a Conservation Ambassador.

-- Letters of recommendation  for college applications and job opportunities.

-- Certification of community service work.

PLUS, Conservation Ambassadors are also eligible to:

-- Receive 3 college credits from Cedar Crest College.

-- Apply to become a Youth Mentor and return to the program tuition free the following year.

-- Compete for college scholarships.

-- Attend college visit days at colleges and universities that have wildlife and conservation programs.

-- Continue with Advanced Conservation Ambassador Training in the Apprentice Program.

-- Join an Academy Alumni Network of over 1,000 alumni professionals, including those in the wildlife, fisheries, and conservation fields.

NextGen Blog

Visit the Academy’s NextGen Blog to hear from students-- in their own words-- about their experiences during the Conservation Ambassador Program and after.

Click Here to nominate a student and for more information.  Questions should be directed to: Katie Cassidy, at kcassidy@wildlifeleadershipacademy.org or 570-939-5109.

Visit the Wildlife Leadership Academy website for more information.

Related Articles This Week:

-- Registration Open!  PA Environmental Educators Annual Conference March 8-10 In Gettysburg  [PaEN]  

-- Applications Now Being Accepted For Rivers Conservation Fly Fishing Youth Camp June 21-26, Messiah University, Cumberland County  [PaEN]

-- Wildlife Leadership Academy Now Accepting Nominations For 2026 Residential Field School Experiences For Students 14 to 17  [PaEN] 

-- PA Firefly Festival Set For June 26-27 In Forest County, Ticket Raffle For Tours, Programs Opens Jan. 1; Festival Exhibits & Entertainment Will Now Be Open To Public  [PaEN]

[Posted: December 3, 2025]  PA Environment Digest