LANSING — Young people with a passion for protecting and improving Michigan’s natural areas, meeting new friends, gaining leadership experience and having fun outdoors are encouraged to apply for a spot on the Michigan Natural Resources Commission’s Youth Conservation Council.

The Department of Natural Resources will accept applications that must be postmarked or emailed by June 7 from youth ages 14 to 18.

Participants will explore Michigan’s outdoor recreation opportunities, work as a team to develop ideas to get other youth outside and discuss solutions to natural resource challenges — all under the DNR’s guidance.

“The council is a great opportunity for young people to discuss and share their unique perspective on all aspects of Michigan’s outdoors,” said Ray Rustem, Youth Conservation Council advisor. “These youth get to make new friends that have similar interests, too.”

A council appointment lasts two years, and members will be expected to participate in two to three meetings each year. During the meetings, members participate in discussions, conduct research and brainstorm ideas about ways to protect, promote and enhance outdoor recreation and the use of Michigan’s natural resources. During their time on the council, members will meet with local department personnel to enhance their learning experience.

In addition, members will be expected to:

— Attend a Natural Resources Commission meeting;

— Write and submit three articles on outdoor activities for the Youth Conservation Council blog;

— Help develop and participate in local events to encourage kids to get outdoors.

The council is continuing to explore how to use social media to engage youth, and already has developed a Facebook page, plus established a youth blog and an Instagram account at #yccoutdoors to share their favorite outdoor experiences.

Applications are available on the DNR website, along with frequently asked questions that offer more detail about the Youth Conservation Council.

Applications can be emailed to rustemr@michigan.gov. Physical applications must be postmarked by June 7 and can be mailed to: NRC Youth Conservation Council, ATTN: Raymond Rustem, P.O. Box 30028 Lansing, MI 48909.

For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.