Trail Work with the CWCC
Connecticut Woodlands Conservation Corps (CWCC) is a paid summer and fall program offered by CFPA. A team, typically 5-6 members, performs trail maintenance, repair, and construction projects on the 825-mile Blue-Blazed Hiking Trail System in Connecticut. Our teams work on projects large and small to improve the trails and the hiker experience and to reduce impacts on natural resources along trail corridors. Members learn from and work closely with professionals and experienced volunteers to implement sustainable trail-building techniques. Members are expected to hike up to 5 miles daily, carry their tools and gear, and actively dig-in on projects.
Trail work is very physical. Whether cutting back brush, digging new trails, moving lumber for a bridge, sawing out tree blowdowns, or setting stone steps, crew members use their hands and bodies throughout the day and the season. Members should be prepared to work for a full day in heat, rain, or beautiful weather.
Members also use hand and power tools every day during the season. With training and supervision, members become proficient in using the tools of the trade, including digging tools, drills, chainsaws, rigging equipment, etc.
Learning in the Field
The best way to learn about trail construction and maintenance is in the field. The teams amass a wealth of field experience, travel to unique and forested parts of the State, and are exposed to a wide variety of specialty trail skills. Additionally, members may attend First Aid & CPR, as well as Leave No Trace training. Members work as part of the CFPA conservation family and will be exposed to the workings of CT’s oldest nonprofit conservation organization.
Supplemental skills and experiences include:
- Hand tool use & maintenance
- Botany, Forestry, and Wildlife
- Camping, Leave No Trace & backcountry cooking
- Rigging use and safety
- Chainsaw safety & use
- Basic structure-building & rough carpentry skills
- Professional job skills
Team members are paid, and uniforms, camping, and safety equipment are provided. Housing reimbursement is possible.
“My time with CWCC is one I will never forget. Being out in the field for extensive periods gave me time to learn and build relationships that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I was able to make many memories and learn so many skills that I had not previously had. I couldn’t have been able to have the incredible summer that I have had if it weren’t for everyone on the crew and the project managers who ran the show.”
Anthony Martynski
Who Should Apply?
This program is modeled on traditional AmeriCorps teams that provide experiential work and life development opportunities. The position is open to anyone between the ages of 18-25+ years old. If you have a positive attitude, are enthusiastic about the outdoors, and are interested in learning about trail stewardship and conservation, this might be the job for you! Students pursuing a degree in an environmental or a recreation-related field can work with their school and CFPA to see if internship credit can be attained for the position.
Schedule
Teams camp overnight living and working as part of a tight-knit team. Project success is dependent on the daily presence of each team member.
Typical work schedule is 8 (9- hour) project days followed by 1 (4- hour) pack up/de-rig day. A project calendar will be provided to members at the beginning of the season.
Season
- Summer Season is 10 weeks from early June to mid August.
- Fall Season is 10 weeks from late August to early November.
Positions
- Crew Leaders start in late April or early May.
- Assistant Crew Leaders start in mid May.
- Members start in early June.
Have questions? Email CWCC@ctwoodlands.org.
