Photo: Theo Parker

"I think what's interesting and unique about the Conservation Study Institute is its relationship to a park that is primarily focused on understanding conservation stewardship. That direct relationship creates a locale, a venue—and a beautiful one—for bringing folks together…." program participant

"Part of the story at this park is how the land has the capacity to heal. So there's a lot of hope there - and that's what the Conservation Study Institute is about - encouraging us to ask: 'What do you believe in and how are you going to act on that?' Something like that stays with you. It was a deeply personal experience." program participant

The Conservation Study Institute offers a Conservation Leadership: History and Practice course to emerging leaders participating in a two-year National Park Service Intake Trainee Program. The two-week CSI course is designed to broaden perspectives by looking at new models of conservation both within the National Park Service and in the private sector. Respected conservation leaders from around the country speak to participants about their experiences and conservation philosophies.

Photo: Barbara Slaiby

National heritage areas have provided excellent case studies to highlight partnerships among the National Park Service, state agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Both the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor and Essex National Heritage Area have hosted CSI courses. Present practice is grounded in a historical perspective by looking at the roots of conservation, and Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park provides an ideal setting to explore the evolution of conservation over the last 200 years. Participants spend time in this national park to explore their own personal conservation values and ethics.