Monarchs Program

Environment for the Americas (EFTA) is a non-profit organization committed to the conservation of birds and nature, while inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. Our Monarch Internship Program is a collaborative effort with federal agencies and partners to monitor and protect monarch butterflies, especially as they face the possibility of listing under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).Through partnerships with organizations like the Monarch Joint Venture (MJV) and the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, we collect and analyze critical data on monarch populations and their habitats across military installations.We welcome transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses with interests in natural resources, wildlife biology, ecology, forestry, conservation, or related fields to join our mission and gain hands-on experience in this meaningful work!

Join a dynamic conservation effort as a Monarch Research and Education Intern, where you'll play an active role in protecting one of North America's most iconic migratory species. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in monarch butterfly monitoring, habitat assessment, and community engagement on military installations across the United States.Interns will work closely with biologists to survey monarch breeding and overwintering habitats, collect data using standardized protocols, and support outreach that fosters awareness of pollinators and migratory species among military families.Position OverviewThis is a field-based position located on military installations where monarch butterflies breed or overwinter. Interns will be trained in protocols such as the Integrated Monarch Monitoring Program (IMMP) to conduct breeding season surveys. Key fieldwork includes identifying milkweed and blooming plants, and recording the presence of adult monarchs, eggs, and larvae.In addition to fieldwork, interns will have opportunities to lead outreach and education programs tailored to the military community. EFTA also provides professional development support through webinars on topics such as resume writing, networking, and exploring conservation careers.Key ResponsibilitiesField ResearchData Collection: Conduct field surveys primarily during spring and summer, gathering data on monarch activity, milkweed, and nectar sources using established protocols.Overwintering Research (Select sites California only): Support overwintering monarch surveys, including the Western Monarch Count, grove habitat assessments, and potential involvement in Motus wildlife tracking projects.Communication & Team EngagementField Reporting: Maintain regular communication with installation Natural Resource Managers and EFTA staff. Submit weekly updates to the EFTA Monarch Program Manager.Team Meetings & Webinars: Attend weekly team check-ins and webinars featuring guest speakers and monarch experts.Biweekly Blog Posts: Share personal experiences and field updates through blog entries for the EFTA website.Education & Community EngagementOutreach Programs: Plan and lead engaging education and outreach activities for military-connected audiences. Examples include school visits, scout events, nature walks, and citizen science projects.Skills You’ll Gain- Field research techniques in conservation biology- Data collection and management- Public speaking and environmental education- Networking with professionals in natural resources- Exposure to careers in wildlife biology, ecology, and conservation

Various locations nationwide including Fort Hood, Dyess AFB, JBSA - Camp Bullis, Fort Bliss, White Sands Missile Range, Fort Carson, Air Force Academy, Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base, Vandenberg Space Force Base.

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