When
Where
Join us for an unforgettable adventure at the Natural Resources Conservation Workshop for Arizona Youth (NRCWAY), a unique, week-long residential camp designed to ignite your passion for the outdoors and natural resource conservation.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Mingus Mountain in the Prescott National Forest, this interactive camp is hosted at the scenic James 4-H Camp, located on an 88-acre wooded site at an elevation of 6,500 feet. Participants will stay in rustic cabins with modern bathhouse facilities and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Arizona.
At NRCWAY, youth will learn about water, soils, plants, and other natural resources through hands-on experiments, outdoor projects, and engaging activities. This workshop focuses on the basics of natural resource management, empowering youth with knowledge and practical techniques to help conserve our environment.
In between learning sessions, enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, swimming, volleyball, and horseshoes.
The program operates on a four-year rotating theme schedule so returning participants can learn something new each year. Themes include:
- Natural Sciences (ecology, entomology, botany, geology, archaeology, climatology, etc.)
- Rangeland and Forestry Management
- Wildlife Management
- Watershed Management
Workshop sessions are led by experts from organizations like the University of Arizona, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Arizona Game and Fish Department, Arizona State Land Department, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Arizona Department of Fire and Forestry Management, and other conservation-focused groups. Students have the opportunity to engage with these experts and learn more about potential careers in these fields.
Quick Facts:
- When: Camp is usually held in July, with dates varying each year. In 2025, it will take place from July 7-11th
- Eligibility: Students entering grades 8–12 in the fall
- Registration: Opens in May
- Tuition: $150 per student (Financial assistance is available)
- Capacity: Limited to 35 participants
- Selection: Based on the merit of the application, no applicant will be denied due to financial need
Embark on this adventure to deepen your connection with nature, make lasting friendships, and gain valuable skills to better understand natural resources.
Join our email list to receive NRCWAY notifications.
For more information contact
Kim McReynolds, Workshop Director
520-766-3602 or kimm@cals.arizona.edu
Sponsored by:
What are natural resources?
Natural resources are anything that humans use and rely on that isn’t human made. Water, timber, wind to power turbines and soil to feed crops, and all the plants and animals in nature; all of these are natural resources.
Why do we need to conserve them?
Humans rely on all these things to survive and thrive; maintaining a healthy ecosystem (water, soil, plants and animals) keeps humans healthy too!
What does a natural resource professional do?
Natural resource professionals help us to manage our resources sustainably. Some conduct the research, others help with on the ground management, and still others help to educate the public about this work. Wildlife biologists, soil conservationists, rangeland ecologists, and hydrologists are just a few types of natural resource professionals.