Outdoor Corps accepting applications for work, training program

Young people sought to complete recreation, conservation projects on public lands

HARRISBURG, Nov. 30 – State Rep. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, today said that the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps is offering paid work experience, job training and educational opportunities to young people who complete recreation and conservation projects on Pennsylvania’s public lands.

“Besides hands-on job skills, the program provides learning opportunities in resource management, environmental issues and recreation skills,” Burns said. “It’s a great opportunity for young people to get a start on their careers and to get paid while they learn.”

The Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps offers a 10-month program for young adults ages 18 to 25. Crews will work February through November 2018 in the Philadelphia, Wilkes-Barre, Williamsport, Harrisburg, Lewistown, Altoona, Saint Marys, Meadville and Uniontown areas.

A six-week, summer program for youth between the ages of 15-18 also is planned. Locations will be announced in early 2018.

Outdoor Corps members work 37.5 hours a week and receive $10.25 an hour and health insurance. Daily transportation to and from the work site and breakfast and lunch also are provided. The program is part of a partnership with the Student Conservation Association, and more information, including how to apply, is available on its website, www.thesca.org.

Members must secure their own housing in or near their program city.

Outdoor Corps members will tackle hands-on projects in state and local parks, state forests and other public lands, including:

  • Trail restoration;

  • Habitat enhancement;

  • Tree planting;

  • Shoreline restorations;

  • Invasive species management; and

  • Specialty projects, including public outreach, research and assessments.

The 2018 Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps is financially supported by the state departments of Conservation and Natural Resources and Labor and Industry.