5-08-2026 6:51pm

ODNR Seeking Applicants for the 2026-2027 Conservation Teen Advisory Council

Beth Callahan Editor

Information & photo courtesy of The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR)

WARREN COUNTY, OH -- The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is calling on young conservationists to join a team of high school student leaders to form the next class of the Conservation Teen Advisory Council (ConTAC). This council allows students to peek behind the curtain of ODNR.

Each month, members will go on a field trip featuring a different ODNR property and will learn from industry professionals about what Ohio’s natural resources have to offer, as well as the career pathways.

“ConTAC empowers students to move from interest to action,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “By working alongside ODNR professionals and their peers, they gain the skills and experience needed to make a lasting difference in conservation."

Through monthly meetings, members will gain hands-on experience across ODNR’s divisions while learning about the department’s mission of wise use and protection of Ohio’s natural resources. Examples of meetings include surveying snakes at wildlife areas, electrofishing at Alum Creek, kayaking along the Cuyahoga Scenic River, and exploring citizen science opportunities at Put-in-Bay. Each meeting is designed to give students a real-world look at conservation careers across Ohio.

ConTAC members also have the opportunity to attend Wildlife and Forestry Advisory Council meetings, offering insight into how state agencies are guided and advised. In addition to meetings, students complete a “Take Action” project focused on conservation. These projects can range from tree plantings to lake and stream cleanups, giving students the opportunity to step into leadership roles and make a tangible impact on the natural world.

Students must be entering grades 9 to 12 for the 2026-2027 school year to apply. Selections of the 2026-2027 ConTAC class will be made in early summer 2026. Learn more about the program here and click here to apply for ODNR’s Conservation Teen Advisory Council. The deadline to apply is Friday, June 5, 2026.