Agency Sponsor: Emily Fong, emfong@ucsc.edu
If interested, email agency sponsor. This is an unpaid internship.
# of Interns:
- Fall 2025: Sponsoring 15-20 interns enrolling in ENVS 83, 84, 183, 183A or 183B
- Winter 2026: Sponsoring 15-20 interns enrolling in ENVS 83, 84, 183, 183A or 183B
- Spring 2026: Sponsoring 15-20 interns enrolling in ENVS 83, 84, 183, 183A or 183B
- Summer 2026: Sponsoring 15-20 interns enrolling in ENVS 84
- Students interested in senior internship or upper-division internship should complete 2-unit internship first and discuss possibilities with agency staff. This is an unpaid internship.
Agency Description:
The University of California Natural Reserve System is a unique assemblage of 42 protected wild land sites throughout California. Younger Lagoon Reserve staff, student interns, and volunteers are working to restore approximately 47 acres of former agricultural land to native grassland, scrub and seasonal wetland habitats. In addition to restoration work, interns will also learn about natural history of the California coast.
Intern Responsibilities:
Interns are expected to show up on time with a positive attitude for work which can sometimes be repetitive and physical. Work changes throughout the seasons, and include: planting, weeding, watering, mulching, seed collection, seed cleaning, greenhouse work, trail maintenance. Interns will work in inclement weather, including heat, wind, and rain. No experience necessary, field gear (rain gear, tools, gloves are provided).
Intern Shifts:
Shifts are offered M-Th 9am-12pm and 1-4pm. Students must work two 3-hour shifts/week.
Location: Younger Lagoon Reserve, 145 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Key Words: Biodiversity Conservation, Ecology/Natural History, Plants/Restoration