Flathead National Forest accepting applications for Youth Conservation Corps

by Lake County Leader
| March 27, 2022 9:00 PM

Flathead National Forest is accepting applications for the 2022 Flathead Youth Conservation Corps program through April 8.

YCC is a conservation and education work-based program for teens ages 15 through 18. is designed to accomplish needed conservation work on public lands while providing teens an opportunity to engage in, and learn about, a variety of Forest Service jobs. Participants will also gain an understanding and appreciation for the environment, natural resources and cultural heritage.

Applicants will be selected to spend four to nine weeks of the summer based out of the Flathead National Forest, Tally Lake Ranger District in Kalispell. Participants will work together with a Forest Service crew leader and Forest Service program staff to complete projects including trail maintenance and construction, wildlife monitoring, landscape restoration projects, visitor support services, resource management, and more all around the Flathead National Forest. Pay is $15 per hour.

“We are excited to host this great program that provides entry-level jobs for youth in our valley while they explore their national forest and the potential careers it offers", said Kurt Steele, Flathead National Forest supervisor in a press release. “It’s a pretty rewarding experience to be able to say you did work that directly benefited your local community and public lands”

This year’s opportunities are as follows:

Option 1: June 15-Aug. 12 (nine weeks)
Option 2: June 15-July 15 (five weeks)
Option 3: July 18-Aug. 12 (four weeks)

Preference will be given for students interested in the first option. Flexible scheduling is possible. All participants must be able to attend mandatory safety and job-related training scheduled June 15, regardless of the timing of their scheduled session. They must also attend the end-of-season presentation and awards event on Aug. 12.

Participants must have reliable transportation to the district office in Kalispell. Work is physical and will be performed outdoors in all weather conditions.

Possible work schedules are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, or 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday.

Applications are available at https://bit.ly/3InogFu. Applications may be returned by email at julie.gerrior@usda.gov, or by mail at Attn: YCC Program Coordinator, 650 Wolfpack Way, Kalispell, MT 59901.

For more information contact Julie Gerrior at julie.gerrior@usda.gov or 406-858-0334, or Tad Wehunt at william.wehunt@usda.gov or 406-314-8398.