Become part of the solution for coastal louisiana

CRCL developed the Future Coastal Leaders program to engage the next generation of coastal advocates. Students participate in a series of no-cost experiences hosted at various institutions across coastal Louisiana. The goal is to provide a broad foundation for understanding coastal land loss while also creating opportunities to connect with like-minded peers in a growing environmental career field.

Students are encouraged to become engaged members of their communities by volunteering, spreading awareness and advocating solutions to our coastal challenges. For example, FCL can participate in CRCL’s habitat restoration events,  at which they can experience hands-on, boots-in-the-mud coastal restoration work.

CRCL’s Future Coastal Leaders liaison will routinely communicate opportunities for personal and professional development. These include educational webinars, forums to advance social justice issues, leadership skills-building workshops, advocacy training and networking opportunities with different state and national environmental organizations working on coastal restoration, advocacy and outreach.  

By participating, students gain an in-depth understanding of the restoration efforts happening across Louisiana’s coast and further explore their interest in a career that aligns with their passion. Join the world of restoration and build your professional skills. Students of all majors are encouraged to apply! 

Eligibility

Future Coastal Leaders are accepted through an online application process. Enrollment is capped at eight students per university to ensure participation from as many different campuses as possible. Applicants will be wait-listed beyond those capacities and notified if openings occur.

Applications

Applications for the fall 2026 and spring 2027 term will open in the summer of 2026.  

“Great way to learn about our coast outside of our school and get different perspectives from other students in the program.” 

“The program made me feel like it was possible to pursue a degree in coastal environmental science…. I try to introduce college students to the FCL program whenever I can.” 

FCL alumni have worked at places like:

• LA Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority 
• LA Department of Environmental Quality 
• LA Department of Wildlife and Fisheries 
• NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries 
• Parish Coastal Zone Manager Offices 
• BREC 
• The Nature Conservancy 
• Louisiana Sea Grant 
• LUMCON
• … and of course CRCL!