You care deeply about the environment and feel called to protect it — but figuring out where to begin can feel overwhelming. The truth is, many young people share that uncertainty. At CPAWS Ottawa Valley, we know that starting a career in conservation isn’t always straightforward, and that’s exactly why we created this program.

We believe everyone deserves the chance to connect with nature, gain meaningful skills, and be part of something bigger than themselves. This is your opportunity to explore the outdoors, learn directly from experienced conservationists, and take real steps toward an environmental career — all in a welcoming, supportive community.

Nature for Everyone, Everywhere! is funded by Canada Service Corps, a national movement that empowers youth aged 12–30 to gain experience and build important skills while giving back to their community. Learn more at Canada.ca/CanadaServiceCorps.

“I feel the most alive when out in the wilderness. I love the simplicity of living in the middle of nowhere. Once all the distractions of modern-day life are eliminated, there is room to have great discussions with others – just as we had in the ZEC Dumoine. I’m very grateful that CPAWS selected me to participate in the CWSP this year and I look forward to working on my community service project in the upcoming months.”   

-Nathalie   

“The most valuable aspect of the program for me personally has been making connections with other young people in the national capital region who come from a variety of educational backgrounds and learning from them while actually being out in nature. The opportunity to discuss ongoing political, environmental, and social issues with like-minded individuals next to the fire and under the stars has been such an amazing experience for me!”   

-Maddie   

“There is a quote I like from a short story by Marina Keegan that goes: ‘Something about the stillness or my state of mind reminded me of the world’s remarkable capacity to carry on in every place at once.’ As we were sitting on the rocks by the falls on our hike on Sunday morning, I was reminded that the waters have been flowing through this channel for years immemorial. Remembering that this river will continue flowing, even when we are back leading our busy human lives, was a comforting thought.”   

-Brett   

Valuable Skills for a Career in the Environmental Sector

Mentorship from working professionals at CPAWS Ottawa Valley

Job references and LinkedIn recommendations

Portfolio project that shows real impact

Network access to Canada’s environmental job market

Epic Wilderness Leadership Experience

3-day Dumoine River adventure

Build confidence being outdoors and learning wilderness skills

All gear included – just show up

Making Real Impact

Lead a project tackling real environmental challenges

Contribute to CPAWS-OV’s conservation goals

Help protect Canada’s largest watershed

Create lasting change through grassroots community work

Ages 18-30 (students, early career, career changers welcome) 

• Legal status: Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or refugee status 
• Newcomer youth prioritized (applications reviewed first) 
• Experience level: Complete beginners to experienced outdoor enthusiasts 
• Availability: Must attend one of the wilderness trips 
• Commitment: Willing to complete 120-hour project over 10 months 
• Location: Ottawa Valley region preferred (support available for local travel) 
• Passion: Care about environment and want to make an impact!

Q: Do I need any outdoor or conservation experience? 

A: None at all! We begin where you are. Our most successful graduates include former retail workers, international students, and complete city dwellers. If you care about the environment, you’re qualified. 

Q: I’m new to Canada—will I really fit in? 

A: You’re exactly who we want! Newcomers get priority application review because diverse perspectives make conservation stronger. Plus, you get extra support: language help and career navigation specific to newcomers in environmental fields. 

Q: What if I’m not sure conservation is my career path? 

A: Perfect—this program helps you figure that out! You’ll explore different conservation careers and discover opportunities you didn’t know existed. Even if you choose another path, the leadership skills, project management experience, and professional network benefit any career. 

Q: How does the program actually work day-to-day? 

A: You’ll have one monthly group meeting (2-3 hours), one wilderness weekend, and work on your individual project at your own pace (1-3 hours/week). Everything is scheduled around student/work commitments with virtual options available. 

Q: Is the wilderness trip safe for total beginners? 

A: Absolutely! Professional guides, comprehensive safety protocols, gradual skill-building, and all equipment provided. Many participants have never been camping—you’ll be amazed how quickly you build confidence and love the experience. 

Q: What if life gets in the way and I can’t finish? 

A: Life happens! We work with you on flexible project options, timeline adjustments, and provide ongoing support. The program is designed to adapt to your schedule, not take over your life.