CREC's Youth Conservation Corps is a program designed to introduce high-school aged Corpsmembers to community service and resource conservation through hands-on project work with a variety of land-management and community partners.

Programs for community-minded youth in Coconino County

CREC has successfully operated a summer youth Corps for 15 to 18 year olds for the last six years. The crews have worked on trail, fire mitigation, and fire restoration, as well as on several projects within their communities. This summer, CREC will operate three crews, one in Flagstaff, one in Williams, and one in Sedona. The crews will operate under a partnership with the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests.

What's the YCC like?

The YCC is a seven-week summer program. Youth not only earn a wage but 17 and 18 year olds are eligible for an AmeriCorps Education Award. This unique program allows them to give back to the community and environment that they live in while offering them an opportunity to participate in a career field they may wish to pursue. Every summer starts with a week-long camp experience at the Junior Forester Academy that encompasses field training, education from experienced professionals from several land management and educational professions, and certifications in CPR and First Aid.

What the YCC offers is more than just a summer job. It is an opportunity to learn more about yourself, your community, and the land around you. Corpsmembers work in teams under the guidance of a trained, professional crew supervisor to complete critical conservation and community improvement projects. The Corps offers you opportunities for tremendous personal growth, extensive conservation related skill training, and strong bonds of friendship.

What the work is like

The typical day begins with the drive to the project site. On the first day of a new project members receive an orientation on the expected outcome and training on tools and equipment. Before work commences each day a safety meeting is held to discuss potential hazards due to project work, location, and weather. If necessary, on-site training is provided for Corpsmembers by agency staff. The use of project-specific equipment presents many other unique training opportunities for Corpsmembers. At least one mid-morning break is taken, but more are offered if the weather and work demand it. Youth crews will typically pack up with an hour remaining, to participate in educational programming either in the field or in a classroom setting. The work day typically ends at 4:00 PM. Though the work may vary from day to day, you can always count on working hard and getting dirty.

But, what's it really like?

We have tons of pix on the site so you can, at least, see what it looks like out there. If you want to see what it looks and sounds like, check out our 2007 YCC graduation movie:
CREC YCC 2007: The Summer in Pictures: (6min 23sec)

Small[4.8MB] | Medium[14.1MB] | Grande[37.5MB]

[Video is encoded in .mov (H.264) format. You may need Quicktime.]

How to Apply

For information about applying, see our application page. For additional information send an email to Matt Mrazek, Youth Programs Coordinator, or call him at 928.522.7981. We're looking forward to receiving your application!