Show Conservation Internship

KRCP is a volunteer based invasive weed and watershed protection management program. KRCP involves the public in protecting native ecosystem resources by coordinating volunteers to conduct invasive noxious weed removal.

Application can be found on our website: https://www.krcp.org/copy-of-about

The Kokee Resource Conservation Program (KRCP) is a volunteer based invasive weed management program sponsored by the nonprofit Garden Island Resource Conservation & Development, Inc., in collaboration with the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources. KRCP involves the public in preserving and protecting native ecosystem resources by providing service learning projects to volunteers of all ages in selected areas of Kokee.

Purpose:  To perform vegetation management activities in Kōkeʻe, Waimea Canyon, and Nā Pali State Parks, involving primarily alien invasive plant (weed) removal but also sometimes including other management actions such as trail clearing, fencing of rare plants, and out-planting of natives and their subsequent care.

Host Site Environment:

Work projects will require strenuous hiking in uneven and/or steep terrain in adverse weather conditions. Work is physically demanding and requires participant to be in good physical health. Participant will need to carry their own daypack with drinking water, lunch, rain gear, work tools, etc. on a daily basis. Worksites are often not near the trailheads where vehicles are parked. Hiking to worksites is a daily occurrence.

Development opportunities:

Opportunity to learn and gain experience in the taxonomy, function and management of Hawaiian flora and terrestrial ecosystems, as well as the threats to these native forests and what can be done about them. Receive safety training and training in resource management methods. Spend time in one of Hawai`i’s finest State Parks.

Responsibilities & Duties:

At the end of the program, participants will have the experience and knowledge to perform invasive weed management within a native forest.

Key Responsibilities:

-Identify native plants in work areas, so as not to damage them
-Identify target weeds and remove them manually by pulling or treat with herbicide
-Hike in rough terrain, through dense vegetation, in possibly slippery, steep areas
-Allow all instructions and safety precautions of KRCP staff; be mindful of the safety of others and yourself; must wear long pants, long sleeved shirts, hiking boots with socks, gloves.
-Assist KRCP staff in the supervision of volunteer service projects
-Assist with orienting and training volunteers
-Attend outreach activities such as helping to man an educational booth at public events