The Cayuga Lake Watershed Internship Program
Join a team of young adults exploring a broad range of organizations working to protect and enhance life in the Cayuga Lake watershed, and beyond!
“I'm so grateful for the activities I participated in, the people I've met, and the lessons I learned in the Watershed Internship Program this summer!
As someone who's passionate about sustainability, I was able to expand my horizons and gain a deeper understanding of the sustainability movement in Tompkins County.” - Milena, Sustainable Finger Lakes intern
“I recently switched to Environmental Science and being able to communicate about the things I've learned is very important to me. This organization definitely helped me advanced my public speaking skills, and I had a really good time meting everyone in our group. “ - Jacob, Discover Cayuga Lake intern
The Cayuga Lake Watershed Internship Program (WIP) is an opportunity for young adults to get involved with several local organizations working in the fields of watershed protection, management, access and education from a variety of perspectives.
“I had a lovely time during the WIP! I think that we had a lot of great conversations and I was able to spend a lot of time outside which improved my mental and physical well being. I was able to form connections with other youth in the community and learn about organizations that are dedicated to sustainability.” - Eden, Cayuga Lake Watershed Network intern
Fields of work/study include:
ecological studies
climate change
environmental education
social and environmental justice
eco-tourism
outdoor recreation and access
community engagement and more
Interns will be hosted by partner organizations in line with their interests and skills where they will be paid to work on program-specific projects. They will also participate in paid weekly activities, hosted by Discover Cayuga Lake and the WIP, that will enhance and enrich their collective learning experiences. The program is meant to be enriching, engaging and enjoyable!
The program will run from early June to early August. Positions will be from 20-40 hours per week with the majority of time spent working with partner organizations on projects and ~3 hours per week dedicated to WIP group activities which include presentations by community members, local organizations, field trips, and mutual sharing of experiences and learning regarding the fields mentioned above There will be an initial orientation session and a final presentation of learning. Participants will be expected to be active contributors to the program, developing mutual learning goals and projects and assessing outcomes.
Eligible participants are age 18-25 who are interested in increasing their professional skills and/or enhancing their college experience. Preference will be given to young adults who are living in or studying in the Cayuga Lake watershed. We are interested in working with a diverse group of people from various socioeconomic, racial and gender identity backgrounds.
All positions are paid, at the minimum, a Tompkins County Living Wage ($16.61/hour).
“My experience with WIP was exciting, timely, and valuable. Interacting with my fellow interns showed me that there are people in this world doing work for good. Our discussions, activities, and shared experiences provided me with different perspectives surrounding the lake, and I left this summer with a new sense of hope.” - Julien, Paddle-N-More intern
I truly enjoyed having the chance to learn, connect, and contribute through myself, others, and the environment. I feel that this program was a fulfilling and enriching way to spend the summer! - Hannah, Discover Cayuga Lake intern
2023 APPLICATION PERIOD IS CLOSED
To inquire for 2024, please email astrid@discovercayugalake.org
SCROLL DOWN for Position Descriptions & Organizational Links that participated in 2023.
Each organization will select its own interns. Please check the position descriptions and apply to as directed.
Email discovercayuga@gmail.com if you have any general questions.
Discover Cayuga Lake - engages students, community members, and visitors in learning about the ecology and history of Cayuga Lake and provides equitable access to Cayuga Lake to foster appreciation of the Finger Lakes watersheds for local ecosystems, human use, and natural beauty.
Cayuga Lake Watershed Network - a grassroots education and advocacy organization of citizens, businesses, groups, and local governments from across the Cayuga Lake Watershed.
Sustainable Finger Lakes - a citizen-based organization working towards the long-term well-being of our communities by integrating social equity, economic vitality, ecological stewardship, and shared responsibility.
The Town of Ithaca - a municipal organization that promotes quality of life, equity, and safety for all Town residents through planning, innovation, and continual adaptation to change.
Paddle-N-More - aims to increase the number of people who participate in paddle sports in the Finger Lakes region and provide services that promote environmental health and education.
Groundswell Center for Food & Farming - works toward building a more sustainable, just food system for all through farming education and training.
The Ithaca Children’s Garden - pending
Finger Lakes Land Trust - pending
Get Ready for a Summer of Fun and Learning in and around the Water!
