By Lillian Keener, Ohio University senior majoring in Environmental Science & Sustainability
As a student, some of the most impactful and long-lasting lessons are those that are hands-on, outside, and in the community. That’s what makes interning with the Athens Conservancy such a special opportunity, and one that I know will stick with me. The Athens Conservancy internship has allowed me to strengthen my GIS and mapping skills, native and non-native plant knowledge, land stewardship, and overall interest in environmental conservation.
A typical day involved hiking around one of the Conservancy’s preserves and clearing vegetation and debris from the trails to allow for safer, more enjoyable use. We often stopped to pull or cut back invasive plants such as multiflora rose, garlic mustard, privet, barberry, creeping Charlie, and autumn olive. My direct supervisor, Bill Rucker, always made an effort to teach us native plants, how to identify them, and their importance. These were some of my favorite aspects of the internship, lessons that are very real and meaningful. Other days consisted of editing and creating maps for the Conservancy, used for their website and grants. I enjoyed seeing real-world applications for my maps.
The other interns and I were also given lessons over anything from macroinvertebrates to how to use a chainsaw. Everything I have learned is something I can not only take into my future career, but something that can benefit me in many areas of my life. This internship has also solidified what I hope to someday do in my career. Land conservation is a challenging but rewarding career to work in, and I thoroughly enjoyed getting a glimpse into what goes into managing and running a land trust.
I had so much fun working for Athens Conservancy, and I know my fellow interns did as well. I can’t think of a better way to spend my time than spending a summer in Athens hiking, exploring, and learning. It is a great opportunity for students studying anything in the environmental science or plant biology field, because it allows for a glimpse into the many different avenues available. I have been able to get a taste of what it’s like to work on GIS projects, and at the same time, work an outdoor, physically demanding job. Knowing what you may like or dislike doing in your career is something valuable to learn early on.
Interning with the Athens Conservancy has been a great way to build confidence in my skills and make great connections. I have so much appreciation for how much hard work goes into purchasing, protecting, and maintaining these preserves, and am grateful to have been involved. I can’t recommend this internship enough for anyone who wants to get involved with environmental conservation!
Below: OU interns checking stream quality, Lillian learning chainsaw protocols, and a little fun with all the summer interns.
