Recapping our 2024 Field Fellowship program
The Voyageurs Conservancy Field Fellows Program is an essential component of our mission to develop the next generation of environmental leaders and preserve the rich natural resources of Voyageurs National Park. Established to break down the barriers that often limit access to hands-on environmental careers, the program provides students and recent graduates from diverse backgrounds with the opportunity to gain professional experience, engage with pressing conservation issues, and contribute directly to public land stewardship.
In 2024, eight dedicated Field Fellows were selected to participate in the program. Each fellow was tasked with contributing to a specific area of conservation and research, reflecting both their individual career interests and the pressing needs of the park. Over the course of their fellowships, these students not only developed technical skills in environmental science, but they also forged lasting connections with park staff and researchers, creating pathways for future professional opportunities.
The 2024 Field Fellows’ Work and Impact
Each of the 2024 Field Fellows played an integral role in advancing conservation efforts at Voyageurs National Park. Their projects addressed critical needs across diverse ecological areas, from wildlife monitoring to aquatic research. Here is a detailed overview of their work:
Winter Night Sky Observation: Kendra Kersting worked under the supervision of Mark Miller, focusing on the preservation and appreciation of the park’s natural nightscapes. Her project contributed to astronomical research and visitor education, fostering a deeper connection between the public and the park’s stunning night sky. Through her outreach, Kendra has helped raise awareness of the importance of protecting dark skies as a cultural and natural resource, which has long-term implications for both tourism and conservation efforts.
Voyageurs Wolf Project: Andria Barrett and Alex Gross were supervised by Tom Gable, contributing to the long-term study of wolf behavior and ecological impacts within the park. Their research has been critical to understanding predator-prey dynamics and informing wildlife management strategies in Voyageurs. The data they gathered is part of an ongoing project that has garnered national attention and will inform both public policy and scientific research for years to come.
Wildlife & Wetland Ecology: Dawson Stone and Nissa Thomas, supervised by Haley Smith, dedicated their time to wildlife monitoring and wetland restoration. Wetlands are some of the most important ecosystems within the park, providing critical habitat for countless species. Dawson and Nissa’s work helped ensure the health and sustainability of these ecosystems by tracking species populations and implementing restoration projects to preserve biodiversity.
Aquatic Ecology & Fisheries: Connor Cieminski and Whitney Gouin, supervised by Ryan Maki, focused on aquatic ecosystems, particularly invasive species management and fisheries conservation. With over 655 miles of shoreline and countless waterways, Voyageurs relies on vigilant management of its aquatic resources. Connor and Whitney’s research played a key role in preventing the spread of invasive species and maintaining the delicate balance of native fish populations, which is vital for both ecosystem health and recreational fishing within the park.
Park Facilities & Maintenance: Conor Bolton, supervised by Chad Nevalainen, worked to support the creation and care of vital park infrastructure such as docks, campsites, trails, and historic structures. The position gave Conor broad experience in the work of ensuring our public lands are accessible and safe for visitors, and experience in the many aspects of caring for our National Park.
The Importance of the Field Fellows Program
The Field Fellows Program is crucial for several reasons. First, it addresses the lack of paid internship opportunities in the environmental field, which can be a significant barrier for students from underrepresented communities. By offering stipends, professional development, and mentorship, we make it possible for these individuals to gain real-world experience that can launch their careers in conservation.
Second, the program is an invaluable asset to Voyageurs National Park. Each fellow’s work directly contributes to the park’s conservation efforts, helping to preserve Minnesota’s only national park for future generations. Whether through scientific research, habitat restoration, or public education, the fellows’ contributions have immediate and long-lasting impacts on the park’s ecological health and visitor experience.
Leveraging 2024 Experiences for Future Success
The 2024 Field Fellows have already begun to leverage their experiences in meaningful ways. Several fellows have continued their work in environmental science, while others have moved into related fields where their time at Voyageurs has provided them with a strong foundation in research, leadership, and public outreach. For instance, Kendra Kersting has expressed interest in pursuing a career in environmental education, a field where her work on night sky preservation will undoubtedly have a lasting impact. She recently was hired in a permanent position as Lead Park Ranger at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument in Hagerman Idaho.
The Voyageurs Wolf Project, in which Andria Barrett and Alex Gross participated, continues to gain national recognition, and their contributions have opened doors to further research opportunities. Fellows like Dawson Stone and Nissa Thomas, who worked on wetland restoration, have been able to apply their hands-on experience to undergraduate studies in ecology and natural resource management, and worked on the restoration team with a past Field Fellow, Harris Kramer, who returned to Voyageurs this summer as a seasonal technician on the wildlife team.
Funding for this program is generously supported by the Fredrikson & Byron Foundation, Elmer & Eleanor Andersen Foundation, and the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR).
The Trust Fund is a permanent fund constitutionally established by the citizens of Minnesota to assist in the protection, conservation, preservation, and enhancement of the state’s air, water, land, fish, wildlife, and other natural resources.
