Applications for next year's YCC season will be available on this page in March 2012.

What is the United States Youth Conservation Corps?
The Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) is a well balanced work-learn-earn program that develops an understanding and appreciation in participating youth of the Nation’s environment and heritage. It is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Forest Service and by the U.S. Department of the Interior-Fish and Wildlife Service and National Park Service under the authority granted by Public Law 93-408. YCC offers gainful summer employment to youth, for approximately eight weeks in a healthful outdoor atmosphere.

The stated purpose of the YCC is to further the development and maintenance of the natural resources of the United States by America’s youth, and, in so doing, to prepare them for the ultimate responsibility of maintaining and managing these resources for the American people. There are three equally important objectives as reflected in the law:

1. Accomplish needed conservation work on public lands.
2. Provide gainful employment for young males and females from all social, economic, ethnic and racial classifications.
3. Develop an understanding and appreciation in the participating youth of the Nation’s natural environment and heritage.

These objectives are accomplished in a manner that provides the youth with an opportunity to acquire increased self-discipline. They learn work ethics, how to relate to peers and supervisors, and how to build lasting cultural bridges with youth from other backgrounds.

Who can apply?
Young men and women, 15 through 18 years of age, who are permanent residents of the United States, its Territories or possessions, are eligible for employment without regard to social, economic, racial, or ethnic backgrounds. Handicapped youth who can effectively participate in most YCC activities are eligible. Youth must have no history of serious criminal or other antisocial behavior that might endanger their safety or that of others; have or be able to obtain a work permit as required under the laws of their State before the first day of work; have a Social Security number or have made application for one; be willing to work hard and participate in most work projects. Employement is without regard to Civil Service or classification laws, rules, or regulations. Most projects will enroll an equal number of males and females.

During the term of employment you must be at least 15 years of age.

What else do I need to know about YCC?

Pay
Youth are paid the prevailing Federal or State minimum wage, whichever is higher. Enrollees are paid bi-weekly (less appropriate taxes). Enrollees will be paid the minimum wage for a 40 hour work week. 

Program Types
This YCC program is non-residential, requiring participants to have their own housing arrangements and daily transportation to and from work. Once they arrive at a designated meeting place, transportation is provided to the work site.

The program lasts eight weeks and begins in early June and end in August.

Types of Work
Applicants should be in good health. Projects involve moderate to difficult physical labor and all work is accomplished in an outdoor setting. Summers in Shenandoah can be hot with high humidity. YCC team members are involved in a variety of work projects that may include, but are not limited to trail maintenance, facilities rehabitation and maintenance, camp ground maintenance, exotic/invasive plant removal, clerical support.

How do I apply?
Complete the YCC Application (download link at the top of this page) and mail to

YCC Program
Shenandoah National Park
U. S. Highway 211 East
Luray, VA 22835

Applicants will be selected on a random basis and will be notified of selection. Demographic information such as race, and family income is not used in the selection process.