Friends of Rio Grande del Norte National Monument

The Outdoor Academy offers school-based outdoor education and internship opportunities to rural youth in Taos County, New Mexico, emphasizing careers in outdoor recreation and conservation particularly for historically underrepresented communities. The program delivers weekly classes on environmental ethics, outdoor activities and public land stewardship, including career talks from local professionals, alongside weekend field events and training in fly fishing and whitewater rafting. Qualifying students are eligible for paid internships funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) support, helping to fill a regional workforce gap. Through hands-on experience, mentorship, and academic instruction, the Outdoor Academy enables 150 students each year to connect with and conserve public lands, while developing viable careers deeply rooted in local land and culture.

Outdoor Academy offers year-round outdoor educational and professional development opportunities for Taos County youth. The initiative leverages school partnerships, community events, and collaborations with federal land management agencies to facilitate outdoor experiences, workforce training, and paid internships linked with New Mexico's outdoor economy. By bridging classroom teaching with hands-on outdoor experiences, field visits, guest lectures, and in-depth industry certifications for interested students, the program cultivates a deeper understanding of conservation, natural resource management, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Ultimately, the program's goal is to equip more young people from Taos County with the skills, experiences, and support to pursue meaningful, local outdoor careers, thereby fostering the upcoming generation of outdoor professionals, public land guardians, and community leaders.