Download - PDF
Download - MSWord

What is the MA DCR Park Fellows Program?
The goal of the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Park Fellows Program is to begin to identify and develop the next generation of the DCR park system’s workforce by engaging interested students in exploring conservation and recreation careers through a summer of work and learning in the DCR parks. 

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation is the major steward of the Commonwealth’s natural and cultural resources.  The DCR park system is responsible for over 440,000 acres in its 440 parks and properties state-wide and within the greater Boston area.  The parks are home to significant natural resources, and cultural and historic landmarks, as well as recreational and educational opportunities. 

The agency is looking for a select group of up to 10 qualified and motivated college students eager to explore their interest in park management and operations through hands-on work in various park settings through a variety of work experiences.  

Both hands-on work and learning will include:  an operational overview of the Massachusetts DCR park system, natural resources management, experience with various facility management issues, work with interpretive programs essential for connecting the public with our parks, and exposure to partnerships vital for building robust park programs.  The DCR Park Fellows Program is coordinated and presented in collaboration with the University of Massachusetts Donahue Institute.

What is the structure and schedule for the DCR Park Fellowship?
The program begins with an orientation on June 2, 2008.   A mentor will be provided to each Park Fellow.  While at each location, in addition to routine work details, site visits will be arranged to other areas in the DCR region.  Mid-summer workshops will bring all the Park Fellows together from their various locations for shared learning and project planning.   A special project will be required of all Park Fellows.  The fellowship will conclude on August 22nd with a presentation of each Park Fellow’s special project, followed by a graduation ceremony.   Applicants can select their top two choices for regional placements across the Massachusetts DCR park system.  There may also be opportunities for experiences outside your assigned area. 

For information on the DCR regions, go to:  http://www.mass.gov/dcr/forparks.htm.  Park Fellows are responsible for their own transportation to their fellowship site.

Who should apply?
The applicant should be a motivated college student looking to explore career options in the fields of conservation and recreation while working in a state forest or DCR park.  They should be interested both in hands-on work and learning about the Massachusetts DCR park system and its operations, natural resources management, facilities management, partnership development, and customer service for connecting the public to the Commonwealth’s parks.

As a participant, what am I expected to commit to?
This 12-week program will take place June 2nd to August 22nd, 2008.  Participants must be willing to work full-time in the parks during their fellowship, attend an orientation session, workshops, the graduation ceremony, and complete a special project.  Park Fellows who meet all program requirements will receive a certificate at the program completion.  Fellows will be expected to provide their own transportation.  There will be some weekend, evening and holiday hours required.

Is this a paid Park Fellowship?
Yes.  The DCR Park Fellowship involves both work and learning.  The weekly pay for a DCR Park Fellow is $12.37 per hour or $989.59 bi-weekly (each paycheck includes two 40-hour work weeks) over a 12 week Fellowship period.

Must I be recommended to apply?
Yes, applicants must be recommended by a faculty person or administrator at the college or university they presently attend, or by a past employer.  If not recommended, they will not be considered for selection. The application process is competitive – Park Fellows will be chosen by a selection committee based on selection criteria and balancing regional availability and a diverse group of Fellows.  No more than 10 participants will be accepted. DCR is seeking a diverse pool of candidates.

How do I apply?
Applicants should complete the application and recommendation forms and return them no later than Friday, April 18, 2008.  Early applications will be considered for rolling acceptance. Applicants will be notified of their selection no later than May 2, 2008.   Both forms should be emailed as an attachment to jhensley@umassp.edu or sent to:

Jody Hensley, DCR Park Fellows Program
UMass Donahue Institute
UMass Collaborative Services
333 South Street
Shrewsbury, MA 01545-4169

Still have questions?
Contact Jody Hensley at 508-725-5505 or e-mail jhensley@umassp.edu

» TOP