Nature Trail (NT)

The Nature Trail Program is designed for students ages 12 - 14.  Nature Trailers work in close proximity to the Zoo’s ambassador animal collection, and teach guests about adaptations and conservation.  Nature Trailers will learn to handle a few small mammals and reptiles.  

Nature Trail Schedule: The Nature Trail season begins June 6, 2020 and runs through Labor Day weekend, September 7, 2020.  The Nature Trail operates 7 days per week, Monday through Sunday, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.  Students must work 16-20 days during the course of the summer.  We highly recommend selecting two days to work each week for the entire summer (for example, work every Saturday and Wednesday).  If a student is a no-show for three of their shifts (and fails to call or email ARC staff), they will be dismissed from the program. 

Scholarship Opportunity:  Applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify for a scholarship:

• Be eligible for the free or reduced lunch program through your school and be able to provide proof (copy of eligibility form from your school) OR
• Provide proof of other federal/state need-based assistance

The scholarship covers all training materials, the uniform, and a one-year family Zoo membership.  For those that qualify for the additional assistance, a daily Muni bus pass and lunch will also be provided for each day worked at the Zoo. 

Application Process:

1. The application  must be completed by Monday, March 16.  The full application includes completed application and letter of recommendation.  NO LATE OR INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED.  If your application is not completed by March 16 you will not be considered for this program.

2. If applying for a scholarship, the scholarship financial statement must also be completed by Monday, March 16.

3. Selection will be based on completed applications, personal interviews and recommendations.  Students selected to participate will be notified by mid-April. 

4.  If you are accepted, there is a program fee of $150.00 which will be due at the first day of training. If you are accepted into the scholarship program, this fee will be waived. 

Program Requirements:

1.  Student must be 12 - 14 years old. (Must be 12 years old by June 1, 2020, and still be 14 years old by September 7, 2020.)

2.  Attendance at the three training days is mandatory.  Failure to attend will result in termination from the program.  There will not be any make-up training dates.

The Nature Trail program is designed for students ages 12-14.  Nature Trailers work in close proximity to the Zoo’s ambassador animal collection, and teach guests about adaptations and conservation.  Nature Trailers will learn to handle a few small mammals and reptiles.  The completed application, which includes a letter of recommendation, is due by March 16.  Please allow yourself 30-60 minutes to complete the application.