Forest Stewards Apprenticeship Program
The Forest Stewards Apprenticeship (FSA) is a paid program providing training, education, and experience in forestry and natural resource management. The Guild provides the program design foundation, initial funding, coordination, liability, and logistical support while our partners provide expertise to crews on site. 2025 program is already underway, with crews in two project locations. They are gaining forest conservation skillsets while they complete critical forest resilience projects!
A year-long program is based out of St. Paul, Virginia. Here, four apprentices conduct invasive species management, oak forest restoration, timber stand improvement, and prescribed fire. They work alongside our partners at The Nature Conservancy and Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
A 12-week program is based at New River Gorge National Park. A crew of four apprentices conduct ecological monitoring and oak forest restoration in America’s newest National Park.
Meet the crews on social media!
The Forest Stewards Guild instagram page has an FSA story and there are posts on our Facebook too! Visit to learn a bit about our crew leaders and crew members.
Crew reflections!
One exciting aspect of this program is the breadth of skills and experience our apprentices gain. Along with the hands-on stewardship work, they learn about data collection, monitoring, and telling the stories of responsible stewardship! Check out our crew reflections for a sneak peek into how the FSA experience is helping forge a healthy future for people and forests/forested ecosystems.
Stay Informed
about our recent projects and upcoming events.