If you are earning credits for your internship, it is essential that you consult with your advisor to determine the required coursework. Every school is different, and most have different requirements. All internships are unpaid- stipends may be available for summer, though a donation. Some organizations provide grants for students to intern at nature centers. You are free to apply for these.
Spring Garden Internships- March-June 20-25 hours per week. Tuesday mornings are preferred
Summer Garden Internships- June-August 25-35 hours per week, Tuesday mornings are preferred
Fall Garden Internships- August-October 10-20 hours per week, Tuesday mornings are preferred
There is a minimum of 6 weeks for garden interns.
Garden internship learning objectives and key responsibilities - This may be needed by your advisor.
Learning objectives- Garden Internship
Developing Practical Gardening Skills- Learn to plan, plant, and maintain volunteer garden areas. Gain experience with essential gardening tasks such as weeding, watering, pruning, and general plant care. Observe plant health and learn to identify common garden issues (e.g., pests, fungus) and investigate treatment options.
Basic understanding of garden ecology - Learn about the structure, purpose, and maintenance of varied garden habitats. Explore native and non-native plant species and their roles within the Sweetbriar gardens. Identifying invasive plant species and contributing to their management.
Team Collaboration- Working effectively with volunteer gardeners and coordinating tasks with the garden team. Build communication skills by checking in with staff, coordinating daily plans, and sharing observations during garden activities.
Project Planning and Implementation- Develop and complete a garden-related project that benefits Sweetbriar Nature Center or the local community. Practice project planning, research, implementation, and documentation (these will vary based on intern interests and advisor direction).
Professional and Career Development- Building workplace skills such as time management, responsibility, and initiative. Intern will be networking with center staff, volunteers, and visiting project partners.
Key Responsibilities
Garden Maintenance and Care: Assist in planning, planting, weeding, watering, pruning, and general upkeep of volunteer gardens.
Garden Observation: Learn about the garden ecosystems and monitor plant health, identifying issues such as pests, disease, or invasive species, and researching solutions.
Volunteer Collaboration: Work with garden volunteers and the garden leadership team to coordinate tasks and share insights.
Project Development: Interns are required to develop and complete a garden-related project that benefits the Sweetbriar community or broader local area.
Routine Planning: Check in with staff or the garden board to review weekly or monthly goals and adjust gardening activities accordingly.
