Mel Fellowship Program In USA 2025–26: $10,000 Awards

The Mel Fellowship Program, administered by the Maryland Forestry Foundation with support from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), offers four annual $10,000 awards to undergraduate students committed to careers in natural resources management and urban forestry. Launched to honor the legacy of Mel Noland—renowned for championing sustainable forestry practices and the Chesapeake Bay protection—this fellowship provides transformative support for aspiring professionals pursuing environmental science scholarships and hands-on experience in Maryland’s forestry sector.

Since Mel’s recognition as an honorary Admiral of the Chesapeake in 2009, the program has expanded its reach, empowering fellows to serve as ambassadors for the Natural Resources Careers Camp and the Foundation’s Urban & Community Forestry initiatives. Through statewide travel, fellows engage with forestry boards, government agencies, and nonprofit partners, forging invaluable connections for future forest management careers.

Fellowship Details

• Number of Awards: 4 (two in Natural Resources Careers, two in Urban & Community Forestry)
• Award Amount: $10,000 per fellow
• Fellowship Term: October 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026
• Host Organization: Maryland Forestry Foundation & MD DNR

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Mel Noland’s Legacy

Mel Noland was a visionary leader who:

Promoted sustainable forestry practices across Maryland

Partnered with local Forestry Boards to establish school forests

Advocated tirelessly for Chesapeake Bay conservation

His dedication laid the foundation for the Mel Fellowship’s mission to develop the next generation of environmental stewardship leaders.

Fellow Responsibilities

Serve as an official representative of the Natural Resources Careers Camp and Urban & Community Forestry programs

Attend meetings and site visits with forestry professionals, government officials, and nonprofit organizations

Promote career pathways in forestry through outreach and education

Build a network of industry contacts to support long-term forestry job placement

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Important Dates

• Application Opens: May 15, 2025
• Application Deadline: July 15, 2025
• Decision Announcement: July 30, 2025

How to Apply

Choose Your Track: Review Appendix A (Natural Resources Careers) or Appendix B (Urban & Community Forestry).

Prepare Documents: Resume/CV and two letters of recommendation.

Submit Online: Complete the fellowship application form (PDF preview available here) by July 15.

Confirmation: You will receive an email acknowledgment upon successful submission.

For full application instructions, visit the Mel Fellowship Application Instructions page.

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