Targeted Conservation Programs

The California Conservation Corps operates several conservation programs across the state. The programs allow Corpsmembers to focus on a specific type of natural resource work or other unique experience.

The Backcountry Trails Program is one of the CCC’s oldest and most revered programs. Established in 1979, dozens of Corpsmembers commit each year to a five-and-a-half-month adventure of hard work away from modern conveniences in the backcountry.

The CCC Energy Corps operates at four center locations across the state. Corpsmembers in Sacramento, Fresno, Norwalk and Vista upgrade lighting and control systems at government owned buildings, including at schools and courthouses.

Corpsmembers may also apply to take part in an international exchange. Representatives from more than 48 countries have visited California during the program. Corpsmembers have worked in places like Honduras, Mexico and Australia.

The Veterans Corps Fisheries Program and Watershed Stewards Program are both committed to improving the rivers and streams where native fish populations call home.

Backcountry Corpsmembers use hand tools to build new trail out of rock.

Backcountry Trails Program in partnership with Americorps

Young adults compete from all over California and the country for this opportunity to spend five months off the grid, in the backcountry, and on a mission to preserve access to some of America’s most pristine and stunning lands.

More About Backcountry Trails Program in partnership with Americorps

Energy Corps

The CCC’s Energy Corps gives Corpsmembers real-world experience in retrofitting public buildings with energy efficient lighting. The retrofits result in measurable reductions in energy use, significant cost savings, and training that helps Corpsmembers land careers in the energy field.

More About Energy Corps

Three Corpsmembers in protective equipment stand atop ladders changing out light fixtures inside a court house clerk's office
Male Corpsmember in safety equipment uses chain saw to cut down branches in forest.

Forest Health

Corpsmembers help maintain and enhance California's forests. The CCC offers three programs dedicated to Forest Health, including the Forestry Corps, Save the Sierra program, and Tent Camps.

More About Forest Health

Global Corps

For over 40 years, the CCC has partnered with groups all over the world to give Corpsmembers an opportunity to do conservation work in different countries and learn about the culture of those countries firsthand.

More About Global Corps

Corpsmembers hike up a slope in Patagonia with snow covered mountains in the background.
Corpsmember Dustin Casey stands knee deep in the water of the redd, wearing a blue cap and hiking backpack as he consults an electronic handheld device and prepares to write data on a notepad in his other hand.

Veterans Corps Fisheries Program in partnership with NOAA

The California Conservation Corps has partnered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries, the U.S. Forest Service, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to create the Veterans Corps Fisheries Program, providing post-9/11 veterans with opportunities to build their skills and work experience while protecting and restoring endangered species.

More About Veterans Corps Fisheries Program in partnership with NOAA

Watershed Stewards Program – in partnership with AmeriCorps

The mission of the Watershed Stewards Program (WSP) is to conserve, restore, and enhance anadromous (salmon and trout-bearing) watersheds for future generations by linking education with high quality scientific practices. WSP is administered by CaliforniaVolunteers and sponsored by the Corporation for National and Community Service.

More About Watershed Stewards Program – in partnership with AmeriCorps

Four people in waders trek through a stream while carrying walking sticks. The stream is surrounded by dense, low-hanging branches on both sides.

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