Yellowstone Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) is an incredible, residential work and education program that helps foster community involvement and stewardship of our public lands. The program is challenging, educational, fun, and offers participants opportunities to expand their horizons while building skills that will benefit them for a lifetime. No previous wilderness experience is required, but a
willingness and ability to work in a physically active outdoor program, get along well with others, and maintain a positive attitude are essential for success. Approximately 60 teen enrollees will be selected from across the country to participate in the park's YCC summer program. Enrollees will work 40 hours a week and receive the federal minimum wage ($7.25/hour) with bi-weekly deductions for room, board, and laundry facilities (~$140). Healthy food options will be provided by the YCC Cook or prepared by staff and youth while camping. While this diet might be different than what you are used to, the goal is to provide highly nutritious, healthy meals to sustain youth during a work program. YCC participants will work in a variety of weather and terrain conditions while completing projects which may include:painting/staining; exotic plant control; fence and bench building; general maintenance work; trail construction and/or maintenance; and working with the visiting public. Some projects will take place in remote backcountry locations within Yellowstone, requiring work crews to camp out for up to five days. When crews are based in the front country, they will either camp or stay at the YCC Facility near Mammoth Hot Springs which provides dormitory housing and a large dining hall for meals and meetings. Enrollees will also spend time participating in environmental education, recreation, and outdoor leadership and career orientation activities. Many of these activities are scheduled in the evenings and on weekends. Activities may include: hiking, rafting, fishing, ranger-led programs, guest speakers, enrollee and staff presentations, assisting field rangers and scientists, and trips throughout the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Yellowstone's YCC Program is supported by the Yellowstone Park Foundation.
