Student Blackwell Civilian Conservation Ctr

The Student Blackwell Civilian Conservation Center at American Climate Corps offers a hands-on conservation program for individuals aged 16 to 24 in Wisconsin. Participants engage in projects like wildland firefighting, timber management, and watershed rehabilitation, gaining essential skills in natural resource management. The program provides paid work-based learning and a public land corps certificate for federal hiring preference, emphasizing environmental impact and community service.
About the position

The Student Blackwell Civilian Conservation Center, operated by the USDA Forest Service, offers a unique opportunity for individuals aged 16 to 24 to engage in various conservation projects on public lands. This program is designed to prepare students for future employment in federal or private sectors by providing hands-on experience in natural resource management. Participants will be involved in a wide range of projects, including wildland firefighting, timber management, invasive species mitigation, watershed rehabilitation, and resource surveys. The program emphasizes the importance of maintaining and improving forest health, managing recreational areas, and supporting wildlife management efforts. Throughout the program, students will learn essential skills related to natural resource management and safety, covering topics such as soils, hydrology, forestry, silviculture, and fire support activities. Participants will also have the opportunity to operate and maintain specialized tools and equipment, ensuring they gain practical experience that is valuable in the conservation field. The program is structured to allow for self-paced progress over a two-year period, with enrollment open year-round. Students can expect to engage in paid work-based learning on National Forests, earning a public land corps certificate that provides federal hiring preference upon completion. This position is not only about gaining skills but also about making a positive impact on the environment and the community. Students will work collaboratively on projects that enhance the health of ecosystems and contribute to the conservation of public lands. With as many as 10 openings available, this program is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about the outdoors and conservation.

Responsibilities
• Learn natural resource management and safety practices.
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• Participate in wildland firefighting and support activities.
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• Engage in timber management from sale preparation to reforestation.
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• Mitigate invasive species and improve watersheds.
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• Identify and survey flora and fauna, including fish and wildlife.
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• Maintain trails and recreational areas.
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• Operate and maintain specialized tools and equipment.

Requirements
• Must be between 16 and 24 years old or have a disability.
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• Must meet income limitations.
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• Ability to engage in significant outdoor activity and physical training, including hiking with a pack.
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• Strength to use tools effectively.

Nice-to-haves
• Interest in working outdoors and protecting the land.
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• Desire to serve people through conservation efforts.
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• Willingness to learn about various trades related to conservation, such as forestry, firefighting, and heavy equipment operation.

Benefits
• Living stipend
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• Paid time off
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• Free housing
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• Healthcare
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• Meals
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• Uniforms
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• Transportation from home
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• Counseling services
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• Education and GED/high school diploma support
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• Drivers licensing and trade certifications
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• Paid work-based learning opportunities
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• Public land corps certificate for federal hiring preference