North Dakota Game and Fish Department Explorer Program
The North Dakota Game and Fish Department Explorer Program is designed to engage and mentor youth interested in pursuing a career in natural resources, conservation, law enforcement or other fields within the Department.
The program offers selected participants hands-on experiences with wildlife, habitat management, fisheries, enforcement, and public outreach.
Core Program Activities
Fisheries Field Day
Test netting, fish stocking, walleye spawning, or other fisheries division activities.
Wildlife Game Management Field Day
Ride along with a biologist conducting grouse census, crowing count, late summer roadside upland game counts or other similar activity.
Conservation and Communications
Work minimum of one day at the ND State Fair Game and Fish site (July 17-25, 2026), preceded by a meeting with outreach staff to learn about communication and public engagement roles.
Enforcement
Attend the Enforcement demonstration day.
Administration
Visit Game and Fish headquarters to meet the director, deputy director, and division chiefs. Tour and participate in a wildlife necropsy at the Wildlife Health Lab.
Additional shadowing or field opportunities may be requested by participants and approved based on staff availability and program relevance.
Eligibility
To qualify for participation, applicants must:
- Be 16–18 years old at the time of participation.
- Demonstrate an interest in a potential career with the Game and Fish.
- Commit to participating for the full April–August program period.
- Be willing to travel to scheduled activities and field sites as required. Travel to and from designated meeting location is the responsibility of the participant.
- Must be able to lift 25 pounds and be outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Annual Selection
- A maximum of 12 participants will be selected each year with 2 - 4 in each quadrant of the state.
- Selection is based on the application review process which shall include:
- Letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor
- Response to short answer questions in application
- Program acceptance will be communicated to participants and guardians following review.
Program Schedule and Expectations
The Explorer Program will run annually from April through August.
Attendance at each of the core program activities is strongly encouraged to ensure a full program experience.
Participation Commitment
Participants in the Explorer Program are expected to:
- Attend all scheduled activities unless excused for extenuating circumstances.
- Engage actively, ask questions, and represent the program and Department positively.
- Follow Game and Fish safety protocols, worksite guidelines and staff instructions.
- Maintain communication with assigned program contacts regarding scheduling.
Purpose and Outcomes
At the conclusion of the program, participants should:
- Gain firsthand exposure to wildlife, habitat, fisheries, enforcement and outreach work.
- Understand the roles and responsibilities of Game and Fish divisions.
- Build professional connections with Game and Fish staff.
- Be more informed and prepared for future educational or career steps in natural resources.
Contact and Support
For questions about the program, application process or scheduling please contact the Department at 701-328-6305.
Request Application
Complete this request to receive the Explorer Program application. Please allow 2 business days for receipt.
Application Deadline: March 22, 2026