YCC Program

C Applications for 2022

I am so happy that we will be again offering a limited number of opportunities for interested youth to be part of this summer’s YCC crew at the Refuge.  As a reminder, this crew will be led by a 21+ year old, trained leader, that we hire through the Student Conservation Association.  Please forward this opportunity to any persons 15-18 who has an interest in making a difference on THEIR National Wildlife Refuge. Note there are two attached items required to apply.      Thank you.  

Rappahannock River Valley NWR is sponsoring a summer Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) Program. The refuge is responsible for conservation, management, and restoration of the fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats. We also provide opportunities for wildlife-dependent recreation and wildlife research as well as promoting public education in the field of conservation. YCC work projects on the Refuge include the building and improving of trails, removing invasive plants, and contributing to wildlife management programs. Enrollees also participate in conservation-themed educational activities. Most work is outdoors. 

The Youth Conservation Corps, first created in 1970, is a federally funded work-learn-earn program designed for young men and women ages 15-18 and aimed at developing an appreciation and understanding of the Nation’s environmental and natural heritage. The program is eight weeks long. Enrollees work 40 hours per week (Monday through Friday, 8:00a.m- 4:30 p.m.) and earn $7.25/hr. The program will run from June 20th- August 12th.  Enrollees are expected to be available for the entire eight-week program. 

Applicants must be between 15 and 18 years old (must be 15 by June 20th and not age 19 before the end of the program). They must be a permanent resident of the United States, it territories or possessions. A strong interest in outdoor work and natural resources management is recommended. 

Applicants will need a Social Security card prior to the first day of work. (Applicants for a Social Security card may be obtained from the nearest office of the Federal Social Security Administration. Processing takes approximately four weeks).

YCC enrollees must be able to provide their own transportation to and from work.  The work day begins at the address of the Refuge HQ, 336 Wilna Rd, Warsaw, VA.  

Interested persons should submit the attached application materials to Bill Crouch, william_crouch@fws.gov by 25 May 2022.