KARL KNAPP EMERGING LEADERS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

This program honors Karl Knapp’s many years of dedicated service to California State Parks and his devotion to the California Trails and Greenways conference. Scholarships provide financial support for a select number of students and young professionals who might not otherwise be able to attend.

Karl Knapp, Visionary and Leader

Karl’s career with California State Parks spanned more than four decades, from 1976 to 2020. He served in a multitude of roles including park aid, park ranger, and executive staff member.

When it came to the development of trails, his wide range of experience contributed to his belief that a robust process started with understanding the needs of diverse trail user groups and building consensus. He listened thoughtfully, worked through conflicts, and developed plans that worked for stakeholders. He used a multi-disciplinary approach to create a safe and sustainable trail experience for visitors. Trails designed by Karl artfully captured a particular aspect of a park. While he rose to the highest levels of department leadership, Karl never forgot his trail and maintenance roots and the trails community.

This program is open to students and young professionals from a broad range of backgrounds and interests to provide them a unique training opportunity that will inspire them to work in the fields of trails, parks and recreation or conservation.  Full and partial scholarships are available to cover conference expenses such as registration (including certain meals), accommodations (either hotel or camping), and travel costs.  Eligibility requirements include:

• Ages 18 to 25 (at start of the conference)
• Resident of California
• Proven interest in and commitment to trails, outdoor recreation or careers related to trails
• Attending or plans to attend college to pursue recreation, conservation, or related field of study
• Has paid or volunteer work experience on a trail related project
• Demonstrates financial need

Interested individuals may submit an Application Form and a one-page essay describing your interest, need and how you meet the criteria. Applications will be accepted until March 14, 2025. Selected applicants will be notified by March 28, 2025. Scholarships will be awarded as applications are received and until available funding is expended.

Submit questions and application to victoria@catrailsconference.org.

Print flyer here.