We are happy to share that Isabelle Burky, a participant of the Foundation’s 2019 Youth Conservation Program (YCP), was recently named Wyoming Game and Fish’s first Youth Conservationist of the Year for 2020! Isabelle was selected for the award for her demonstrated enthusiasm and leadership in the outdoors and conservation in Wyoming. She has worked in Yellowstone, Glacier, and, most recently, Grand Teton National Park where she constructed trails, monitored wildlife, repaired historic cabins, and helped control noxious weeds. Isabelle will be recognized for her accomplishments during a ceremony in late March in Cody, Wyoming at the 2020 Wyoming Outdoor Hall of Fame.
Wyoming Game & Fish’s 2020 Youth Conservationist of the Year, Isabelle Burky, in Grand Teton National Park.
“I assumed YCP was another youth trail building crew, like many other summer programs I had taken part in, however, it is clear to me that YCP did far more to work and develop enough confidence within me to explore myself and be comfortable in challenging situations.” -Isabelle Burky
Isabelle’s positive attitude and drive went hand in hand with the hard work ethic of YCP, which in 2020 will enter its 15th consecutive season. YCP upholds Grand Teton National Park’s core mission of fostering a dedication to land preservation and an appreciation for America’s national parks in young people. During ten weeks of trail work and maintenance projects, YCP cultivates a strong work ethic, instills valuable job skills, introduces NPS career opportunities, and teaches about cultural and natural resources within Grand Teton.
Congratulations to Isabelle for this incredible achievement!
Are you or someone you know between the ages of 16 and 19, passionate about the outdoors and national parks, and looking for a summer job? Want to get paid to spend your summer in Grand Teton National Park? The 2020 YCP is hiring! Participants work Monday through Thursday for ten weeks and are paid on an hourly basis. Requisite gear and equipment, as well as daily transportation to the park from Jackson’s Town Square, are provided. Follow the link below to apply for a summer you will never forget.