Grow From Valuable Experiences
Wild Rivers Conservancy interns support activities that give people opportunities to learn about and explore the Riverway, as well as protect and restore the watershed’s rare natural resources. These internship activities include:
- Assist with K-12 environmental education programs and outdoor public programs to connect people to the Riverway and encourage stewardship.
- Support land management by using GIS and other tools to develop snapshots of key habitat corridors and vital parcels of land for protection.
- Work hand in hand with park rangers, creating opportunities for park visitors to understand the significance of the Riverway and its resources.
- Monitor and survey water quality, aquatic invertebrates, zebra mussels, and bats.
- Educate the community on the spread of invasive species by connecting with people at landings and assisting with community-based invasive species awareness activities.
Work in The Nation's First Wild and Scenic Riverway
Spanning both Minnesota and Wisconsin, the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway is among these cherished national parks. Encompassing 255 miles of clean water, exceptional wildlife, and abundant recreational opportunities, the Riverway consists of the St. Croix River and its main tributary, the Namekagon River. In 1968, these rivers were designated as the nation's first wild and scenic river national park, thanks to their free-flowing character, outstanding water quality, and the recreational, cultural, historical, and aesthetic values they provide.
The Riverway isn’t just important for its ecological value. The St. Croix River offers outdoor enthusiasts a chance to enjoy a wilderness-like experience and a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities within easy reach of a major metropolitan area. Close to a million visitors each year come to swim, paddle, fish, hike, and more.
National Park Service Partnership
Wild Rivers Conservancy of the St. Croix and Namekagon is the the official non-profit partner for the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. We support and complement the National Park Service’s work within the Riverway. The Conservancy is the voice of the river and the only organization with a watershed-wide scope in the St. Croix River basin.
As the non-profit partner for the Riverway, we work with the National Park Service to support Riverway protection and enhancement, and provide opportunities for people to explore and discover the St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers. We prioritize conservation activities that improve water quality, protect and enhance land, and increase stewardship efforts. The Conservancy is the "go-to" group for addressing issues that affect the St. Croix watershed and this national park.
Doing More With Trusted Collaborators
Our interns learn the valued skill of cross agency collaboration. Interns not only work with the National Park Service (NPS) but many other partners on the state and local levels.
What Past Interns Have to Say
Logan Planer
University of Wisconsin Stevens Point
Raven Weitzenhoffer
Trinity University
Sam Peters
University of Wisconsin River Falls
Frequently Asked Questions
For more information contact: Wendy Tremblay, Community Engagement Manager or call 715-483-3300