A group of young adults walking along a path with shovels towards a wooded area

Youth
Eco-Stewards

Are you between 12 and 30 years old and passionate about making a difference? The Youth Eco-Stewards (formerly known as Youth Nature Keepers) provides opportunities to take action, gain valuable skills, and connect with like-minded changemakers across Canada.

Youth eco-stewards logo and icon

Get Involved

Already registered? Submit your hours here »

Why Join?

Your actions matter. Together, we can work toward a greener, cleaner future. As a Youth Eco-Steward, you will:

Youth Phragmites Management in High Park, Toronto

Gain Hands-On Experience

  • Receive training in habitat restoration and invasive species management.

  • Design and lead your own community project or join initiatives such as:

    • Weed pulls
    • Habitat restoration
    • Garbage cleanups
    • Volunteer while gaining practical, hands-on experience that enhances your resume.
A man and woman digging up roots in the outdoors

Develop Your Skills

  • Access professional training in:

    • Project management
    • Budgeting
    • Public engagement
    • Leadership and teamwork

  • Receive one-on-one mentorship and support.

Three people in caps reading a plaque in a wooded area

Make a Lasting Impact

  • Educate others about environmental protection.
  • Connect with a national network of youth environmentalists.

  • Support the goal of creating healthy habitats and resilient communities free from invasive species.

  • Earn volunteer/service hours and professional references.

A young woman planting seeds in trays

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Canadian Council on Invasive Species (CCIS) is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion in all programs. CCIS strives to provide accessible opportunities both virtually and in person. Everyone is welcome to apply.

Funding Acknowledgements

The Youth Eco-Stewards Program is funded by Canada Service Corps, a national initiative that empowers youth to gain experience and build essential skills while giving back to their communities.

Learn more at Canada.ca/CanadaServiceCorps.

Canada Service Corps log0

Youth Resources

The Canadian Council on Invasive Species (CCIS) provides youth with educational resources to support learning and engagement in environmental conservation.

Activity Books – Free to Download

CCIS has partnered with the Invasive Species Council of British Columbia to develop two interactive activity books that educate youth on preventing the spread of invasive species. These resources align with the PlayCleanGo and Clean Drain Dry Take Action campaigns.

Additionally, CCIS has collaborated with partners to create an activity book focused on forest pests as part of the Buy Local Burn Local program.

  • Invasive Species on Our Landscapes – Activity Book (French)
  • Invasive Species in Our Waters – Activity Book (French)
  • Invasive Species in Our Forests – Activity Book (French)

For a high-resolution digital copy, contact programs@canadainvasives.ca.

These resources are partly supported by the Government of Canada and the TD Friends of the Environment Foundation.