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​​​NextGen Advisory Council

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has a NextGen Advisory Council to bring fresh perspectives to the department by listening to the viewpoints of younger participants.

Gathering input from younger Pennsylvanians helps the department find effective ways to offer recreation for all ​and to provide an ongoing communication channel between the department and this important segment of current and potential environmental stewards.

The objectives of the council include:

  • Promoting youth involvement in environmental issues
  • Providing diverse perspectives to the department
  • Facilitating networking opportunities and experience for council members both within and outside of the department.​

Input from the NextGen Advisory Council is used to identify new approaches to the department’s policies and strategic plans, programs, and facilities.

Projects that the council has provided input on include:

  • Recommendations to improve the public participation guide for grants for conservation and recreation.
  • Feedback on the Bureau of Forestry’s strategic plan.
  • Enhancing definitions for work on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging and providing real-world examples.​

More information about council members and accomplishments is available in the NextGen Advisory Council 2024 Annual Report (PDF).

Apply to Serve on NextGen Advisory Council

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is accepting applications for individuals to serve on the NextGen Advisory Council.

The council is generally composed of 20 young, diverse members from across the Commonwealth.

Benefits to council participants are​:

  • Learn about careers in conservation: science, environment, nature, advocacy, etc.

  • Tap into opportunities for outdoor activities and sports in parks, forests, and trails.

  • Meet and work with Department of Conservation and Natural Resources staff and leaders.

  • Gain leadership experience while enacting change to benefit the environment and outdoor experience for all.

  • Learn and strengthen professional skills including writing, presenting, policy development, networking, and more.

  • Help your community by working with the department to ensure equitable access.

  • Meet and collaborate with like-minded people who share the goal of inclusion in conservation and outdoor recreation.

You do not need any experience in conservation or government to apply; rather, a willingness to share your ideas and work in a supportive community to promote conservation and recreation for all -- including future generations.

Council Participant Requirements

Priority is given to applicants ranging from high school students to age 35.

Participation expectations for the NextGen Advisory Council include:

  • Commitment to attend council meetings held quarterly in the evening on the third Tuesdays of January, April, July, and October. Meetings are virtual and include educational presentations by Department of Conservation and Natural Resources staff, as well as discussions of topics and projects prioritized by the department and/or the NextGen Council.

  • Willingness to participate in optional committee, networking, and special project meetings. These meetings are also held in the evenings on the third Tuesday of the month and scheduled in between quarterly meetings to further council initiatives and encourage relationship building among Department of Conservation and Natural Resources staff and council members.

  • An initial three-year term, with the option to serve and additional, consecutive term.

Apply to Serve on the Council

If you are interested in serving on the NextGen Advisory Council, please submit an online application by Wednesday​, July 31.

If you have questions about the council or how to apply, please contact the department.