570-245-8518 7 East Water St. Lock Haven, PA 17745
  • My WLA Journey

    This week’s blog is a guest post written by Elizabeth B., a Bucktails and Drummers alumni. Elizabeth is a sophomore at Penn State DuBois pursuing her associate degree in wildlife technology and her bachelor’s degree in forest ecosystem management. Her long-term career goal is to become a forester and manage Pennsylvania’s hardwoods for future generations. Elizabeth first attended the Wildlife Leadership Academy in 2018 at the Bucktails field school as a student. She then became an assistant team leader in 2019 and an Academy Support Team member in 2021, helping to run field school. Over the years, Elizabeth has attended all six field school curriculum programs in various roles. Elizabeth is very thankful for the opportunity to attend WLA and grow in her passion for conservation.

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  • Outreach Highlight – Josh is Serving Up Conservation

    March 1st marked the final deadline for this past summer’s class of Conservation Ambassadors to turn in their outreach record books. We are blown away at out the projects our students have completed in their home communities. In the spotlight this week is the remarkable work of Josh T., a Gobblers alumni whose dedication to conservation goes beyond the traditional boundaries.

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  • Mental Health and Nature

    This week’s blog was written by Audrey M., a Gobblers alumni. Audrey loves wildlife and would like to make their passion for the outdoors into a career one day! WLA has been a great opportunity for furthering their portfolio. The program has taught them more creative ways to teach others and help the environment. Audrey has started to incorporate wildlife into their art, which brings another part of their personality to their work.

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  • The Highlights of My Week at Wildlife Leadership Academy

    This week’s blog was written by Evangeline T., an Ursids alumni. Evangeline loves to be creative, especially in the kitchen! She would like to pursue a degree in baking and pastry arts. Evangeline is very extroverted and loves to hang out with friends and family. She adores animals and learning about them, so she attended …

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  • Flashback Blog: The Snow and the Birds

    This week’s Flashback Blog was written in 2021 by Micaela J., a Bucktails alumni. Micaela is currently a student at Indiana University of Pennsylvania where she is studying Mathematics/Actuarial Science. Micaela credits WLA for making her aware of her impact on the environment, although she has always been conscious of her ecological footprint. The Wildlife Leadership Academy has also encouraged Michaela to advocate to others the importance of program and it’s impact.

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Nominate a Teen Today!

We are now taking nominations for the 2024 field school season. Academy students gain extensive knowledge about wildlife, fisheries, and conservation plus develop leadership and communication skills. Do you know of a student who would benefit from our program? Nominate them today!

Our Mission

The mission of the Wildlife Leadership Academy is to engage and empower high school age youth to become Conservation Ambassadors to ensure a sustained wildlife, fisheries and natural resource legacy for future generations.

Becoming a Conservation Ambassador

Our student’s Conservation Ambassador journey begins as they attend rigorous summer field schools that focus on wildlife/fisheries biology and conservation as well as leadership skills development and continues with community outreach through education, service, media engagement, creative arts, and outdoor mentorship.  Take a tour of a field school below or click right through to learn the benefits of being a part of the Wildlife Leadership Academy and apply!

PA Bucktails

Focusing on white-tailed deer, their biology, habitat and management.

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PA Bass

Focusing on bass and warm water conservation.

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PA BROOKIES

Focusing on brook trout and coldwater conservation.

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PA DRUMMERS

Focusing on ruffed grouse and early successional habitat.

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PA GOBBLERS

Focusing on the wild turkey, their biology and habitat engagement.

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PA URSIDS

Focusing on the black bear, its biology and habitat needs.

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