Overview
Thank you for your interest in serving with AmeriCorps in California. Are you ready for an unforgettable summer living and working in the wilderness – all while developing sought-after skills in conservation? AmeriCorps members in the Backcountry Trails Program venture far into the mountains to do some of the most challenging and ultimately rewarding work of their lives. We are putting together six wilderness trail crews that will operate out of backcountry camps, totally unplugged from the conveniences of modern technological life. We are a highly structured, regimented program that focuses on hard work, wilderness stewardship, personal growth, community development….and adventure. While serving on physically demanding trail restoration projects in intense conditions, you and your crew will help make wild lands safer and more accessible for generations to come.
Members receive physical and wilderness stewardship training, free health insurance, a monthly living stipend of $2,814, and an education award upon completion of service. Meals and “housing” are provided: incredible and nourishing food is prepared by experienced cooks twice daily while you live out of your tent in the wilderness. We also provide you with all the needed gear, first aid training, and career development training to round out your season in the wilderness. Many of our members have gone on to work storied careers in wildland fire, trail construction, and leadership roles within the National Park Service, US Forest Service, and more!
Qualifications:
• Integrity--trustworthy, keep their word, can be counted on to follow through.
• Strong work ethic.
• Ability to do extremely physically demanding work for prolonged period of time.
• Good safety record.
• Team player.
• Ability to use good judgement and make sound decisions.
• Flexible and adaptable.
• Able to handle stressful situations well.
• Self-motivated.
• Social skills—interpersonal communication, gets along with those different than themselves, can resolve conflict respectfully.
Required Skills:
Hiking with 50-70lbs of personal gear 12 or more miles into the backcountry, Hiking at a 3 MPH pace, maintain proper hygiene, following program buddy system,
Preferred Skills:
Backpacking experience, Medical Certifications, Exposure to social experiences, Practice with proactive communication.
About CA Conservation Corps Backcountry Trails Program
The Backcountry Trails Program (BCTP) was established in 1979 and is the longest running special program of the California Conservation Corps. The BCTP has also been an AmeriCorps program for more than two decades.
It is a five-plus month commitment to intense work and adventure with unique learning experiences in a truly spectacular environment. Those who complete the program will leave with renewed vigor, optimal fitness, augmented work ethic, and will be better able to live and work cooperatively with others.
Corpsmembers learn the historic skills of trail maintenance and construction, and the process of building healthy, inclusive communities. Highly regarded in the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, and trails community, the BCTP offers a path for those interested in pursuing a career in related fields. An estimated 70-percent of BCTP alumni have gone on to work in trails and other conservation related fields for at least one season.
