Trail Crew Work
Connecticut Woodlands Conservation Corps (CWCC) is a paid summer and fall program offered by CFPA. A crew, typically 5-6 members, performs trail maintenance, repair, and construction projects on the 825-mile Blue-Blazed Hiking Trail System in Connecticut. Our crews work on projects large and small to improve the trails and the hiker experience and to reduce impacts on natural resources along trail corridors. Crew members learn from and work closely with professionals and experienced volunteers to implement sustainable trail-building techniques. Crew members are expected to hike up to 5 miles daily, carry their tools and gear, and actively contribute to the work.
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. Crew members should be prepared to work for a full day in heat, rain, or beautiful weather.
Crew members also use hand and power tools every day during the season. With training and supervision, crew 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 crews 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, crew members may attend First Aid & CPR, as well as Leave No Trace training. Crew 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.
“I chose to work at CFPA, not really knowing the organization beyond a job description on an application. But, I came away with a plethora of knowledge ranging from tree identification that the crew did for fun to chainsaw operation and maintenance. This (experience) went far beyond doing work behind a desk. It allowed me to immerse myself in the forest and trail world and gave me a summer of immeasurable experience and excitement.”
Wesley Skidmore
Who Should Apply?
This program is modeled on traditional AmeriCorps crews 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.
Season
Crew Leaders start in early May, and Assistant Crew Leaders start in late May. The Trail Crew summer season is 10 weeks from early June–mid-August and the fall season is 10 weeks from late August–late October. Crew members live and work as part of a tight-knit team. Crew and project success is dependent on the daily presence of each crew member.
Weekly work schedules can vary. Crews may work either 4- 10 hour days or 8- 10 hour days depending on project logistics. A project calendar will be provided to members at the beginning of the season. All weeks will likely require spike camping in the field for the duration of the project. This is a team-based position. Members should plan to spend all scheduled work days with their crew.
Actively Recruiting for Fall 2023 & Summer and Fall 2024
CWCC Opportunities
Have questions? Email CWCC@ctwoodlands.org.