LOOKING FORWARD TO A GREAT 2026 SEASON!
Get outdoors, get your hands dirty, get involved.
The Youth Conservation Crew is a seasonal program that takes place each year from June to August, open to individuals between the ages of 16-20. Subscribe to our newsletter, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram to get up-to-date info on what we’re up to!
This Year’s Application window will be open from March 1 – 31
The Youth Conservation Crew (YCC)began in 2018, with the purpose of providing local youth with on-the-job training alongside natural resource professionals. This seasonal program is designed to promote the stewardship of community resources while preparing our youth for future success in a variety of ways.
2026 SEASON
Make a difference with the Youth Conservation Crew! The 2026 season runs from June 22nd through August 27th. Local schools in our watershed will receive application packets at the end of February. Check in with your school’s career councilor or download your own.
Individuals outside the Coast Fork Willamette are also eligible and encouraged to apply.
SKILL BUILDING
The YCC fosters growth in the workforce for individuals interested in Natural resources or seeking a progressive work experience. Refine your skills in:
- Effective time management
- Team collaboration and networking
- Resume and interview procedures
- Responsibility and confidence
- Technical skills including the use of tools and geo-referencing applications
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Training
ACTIVITIES
Activities vary by season and may include:
- Trail building and maintenance
- Wildlife habitat restoration
- Erosion mitigation
- Plant and animal identification
- Fire lines and fuels reduction
- Monitoring and surveys
- Invasive species removal
- Snorkeling
- Educational tours
- Seed collecting and propagating
- Fish Salvage
- Storm clean-up
PROFESSIONAL MENTORSHIP
Over the course of a 10 week season the YCC partners with a variety of natural resource professionals from regional, state, and federal organizations including:
- US Forest Service
- Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
- US Army Corps of Engineers
- City of Cottage Grove
- Eugene Water and Electric Board
- Private Landowners
IDEAL APPLICANTS HAVE
- A strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Self-directed, willing to take initiative, and excellent work ethic.
- Ability to hike up to 5 miles per day while carrying up to 30 lbs.
- Ability to hike on uneven terrain and through slash.
- Ability to work a full 9 hour day.
At the Coast Fork Willamette Watershed Council, we are committed to providing a safe work space that is inclusive of all. We welcome folks of all race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, and veteran status. The Coast Fork Willamette Watershed Council is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and celebrates the diverse community different individuals cultivate.
Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
