University of Nevada Cooperative Extension and the Nevada Section of the Society for Range Management are now accepting applications for the Nevada Youth Range Camp to be held June 17-23 in central Nevada's Desatoya Mountains. Applications must be submitted by April 27.

Now in its 58th year, the Nevada Youth Range Camp provides an opportunity for youth ages 14-18 in Nevada and eastern California to learn about Nevada's desert and mountain rangelands and diverse ecosystems. Campers will stay at the Smith Creek Ranch, which has been recognized for its ecologically responsible approach to livestock management on public lands. While there, campers will learn from range management professionals who are knowledgeable in the ecology and management of the Great Basin's desert and mountain rangelands.

Campers will learn about map reading; identification and the importance of rangeland plants; evaluation of sagebrush, woodland, and stream ecosystems; wildlife habitat; and many other topics related to rangelands. Students can also enjoy the Desatoya Mountain Range through outdoor activities, including hiking, volleyball, horseshoes, campfires, photography, etc.

Interested students must submit an application and a letter of recommendation from an adult other than a parent, relative or sibling. The cost to attend the camp is $200 and includes meals and camp activities. Applicants may be sponsored to attend the camp by contacting their local conservation district or other organizations.

Visit the Nevada Section of the Society for Range Management website or contact Kathryn Dyer at 775-861-6647 or kdyer@blm.gov for more information and to apply. Completed applications with enclosures can be emailed to kdyer@blm.gov, or sent to Nevada Youth Range Camp, c/o Bureau of Land Management, ATTN: Kathryn Dyer, 1340 Financial Blvd., Reno, NV 89502. Approved applicants will be notified within two weeks of receipt of the application.

Nevada Youth Range Camp is conducted in partnership with state and federal agencies, including the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Nevada Division of Forestry, Nevada Division of Conservation Districts, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Nevada Department of Wildlife. Financial sponsors include the Nevada Wildlife Federation, Nevada Conservation Districts, Nevada Bighorns Unlimited and Nevada Society for Range Management.