Applications for the 2024-25 cohort are now closed. Check back in fall 2025 for our next cohort application period.

Do you want to learn more about local conservation, climate action, and how nonprofits work? Would you like to get involved with conservation work? And were you born between the early 1980s to mid-1990s? Join the Emerging Conservationists of Central Oregon!

The purpose of Emerging Conservationists of Central Oregon (ECCO) is to:

• Provide emerging community leaders (ages 27-44) the opportunity to learn more about local conservation and climate action efforts;
• Help ensure that the Land Trust’s work remains relevant and meaningful for future generations;
• Work with other group members to plan engagement opportunities for other millennials to connect to the Land Trust's mission and work;
• Offer nonprofit leadership experience within the Central Oregon community.

Time commitment:

• This group meets every other month, excluding July and December.
• The first meeting is in November, then January, March, May, and September.
• Group meetings are typically 2 hours long, unless they include a field trip. The group will determine the best days/times to meet up each year.
• Time commitment is one year, with the option to extend your service for two additional years.

Who we're looking for:

• Millennials (defined as being born in the early 1980s to mid-1990s)
• Living in Central Oregon
• Excited to learn more about conservation work and local climate action
• Ready to collaborate on creating an event geared towards your peers

For questions about ECCO, please contact Jana Hemphill at jana@deschuteslandtrust.org.

**A limited number of stipends will be available to help with participation barriers.**

Not ready to join the Emerging Conservationists of Central Oregon? Learn about the many other ways you can support the Deschutes Land Trust, including monthly giving, volunteering, and joining the Five Rivers Society!