Thank you, summer interns!
As ACRES summer interns get ready to head back to school, we want to share our appreciation for these hard workers. From wrangling non-native, invasive species to researching the communities we serve, our summer interns greatly contributed to some major projects while gaining experience in their fields of study.
Land management interns
Connor Havens is studying environmental science and biology at Manchester University. After being stuck in a dorm all year, Havens said he has appreciated the opportunity to learn and work outdoors alongside experienced stewardship staff. This work included assisting with invasive species management and supporting the maintenance of ACRES trails.
Bailey Temple is studying natural resources and environmental science at Purdue University. Her interest in habitat restoration work drew her to gain field experience with the ACRES land management team.
This summer, ACRES land management team welcomed intern Iris Norton back for a second year. “I had some great experiences and learning opportunities last summer interning with ACRES, and I wanted to keep learning and caring for the land around me this summer, too,” said Norton, who is studying agriculture and horticulture at Texas State University.
Josh Good is a senior studying criminal justice and environmental and sustainability studies at Indiana University with the goal of becoming a conservation officer. An interest in conserving natural resources drew Good to gain field experience with ACRES. “I’ve learned how to identify different plant species and develop the strategies to promote native species and regulate invasive species,” Good said.
Advancement intern
Intern Joelle Buller is majoring in sustainable development with a business management minor at Taylor University. “I wanted to intern with ACRES because I saw it as a great opportunity to learn from people who have shared values and appreciation towards land and are making a tangible positive impact in communities and the future of Indiana’s natural landscape,” Buller said. Over the summer, she learned how ACRES operates and interacts with communities in our service area.
Thank you, ACRES interns! We’ve enjoyed having you on the team.
Many thanks to the Olive B. Cole Foundation and Manchester University for supporting ACRES summer land management program.