Texas Leaders in Conservation - TLC

Texas Leaders in Conservation (TLC) is a high school stewardship and leadership program with over a decade of success. Each year, students explore one of five Audubon-aligned conservation topics: Climate, Water, Coasts, Working Lands, or Bird-Friendly Communities.  

The program is free and combines hands-on field experiences with actionable lessons that make complex conservation issues accessible. Students participate in multiple day-long field trips throughout the school year and have opportunities to reflect, relax, and practice 21st-century leadership skills in the great outdoors. The program culminates in a free five-day summer conservation camp. 

Like conservation science itself, TLC evolves continuously to meet the needs of students, the environment, and college preparation. Originally a one-year program, TLC now encourages multi-year participation and mentorship opportunities in a small group setting.  

Audubon supports participating students with letters of recommendation for college, internships, and jobs, and in 2021 launched its own internship program. This experience helps students transition from high school to college through a meaningful, structured internship at a local Audubon Conservation Action Center. Over 200 students have participated in TLC, and we look forward to welcoming many more in the years ahead. 

Audubon offers TLC in Dallas, Balch Springs, and San Antonio, in partnership with the Young Women’s Preparatory Network (YWPN). Through the partnership with YWPN and our urban Audubon Conservation Action Centers, students connect with nature and their communities while learning to nurture and protect birds, people, and the environment. 

All program costs and materials are fully covered for students. Students need only bring a positive attitude, curiosity, and enthusiasm, especially for the hands-on summer camp experience.