Halifax, PA – Today, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn joined Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps adult crews at Camp Hebron in Dauphin County to kick off the upcoming season of work on public lands. The program provides opportunities for paid work experience, job training and environmental education.
Under Governor Josh Shapiro’s leadership, DCNR has expanded conservation efforts in the Commonwealth by strengthening the Outdoor Corps workforce development initiative. The Governor’s 2024-25 budget invests $5 million to enhance and grow the program, increasing job training and stewardship skills for more young people. The investment supports hiring additional staff and restructuring the program into a regional model to improve efficiency, expand recruitment, and strengthen community partnerships.
Governor Shapiro and First Lady Lori Shapiro have seen firsthand how the Outdoor Corps instills teaches public service values while equipping participants with critical workforce skills. During visits with crews at Locust Lake and French Creek state parks last year, they observed the program’s lasting impact on both young people and Pennsylvania’s environment.
“Governor Shapiro and the First Lady have witnessed the transformative impact of the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps — both in preparing young people for the workforce and in protecting our public lands,” said Secretary Dunn. “This program not only builds future conservationists but also strengthens Pennsylvania’s workforce by providing essential skills and paid job experience.”
A Legacy of Stewardship: Celebrating 10 Years of the Outdoor Corps
As the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps approaches its 10th anniversary this year, its mission of training young people in conservation remains as vital as ever. Open to individuals ages 15-25, the program provides hands-on experience in trail restoration, habitat enhancement, and tree planting. Modeled after the Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps, the program is managed by DCNR and the Student Conservation Association (SCA) with support from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry and private philanthropists.
Last year, 170 participants made a lasting impact across Pennsylvania:
- 62 structures improved for public safety and better accessibility
- 148 certifications earned in conservation skills
- 95 acres restored to natural beauty
- 2 miles of waterways cleaned
- 118 miles of trails enhanced
- 1,516 native trees planted
The Outdoor Corps has served as a launchpad for young professionals, including Sara Wettekin, an environmental education specialist at Presque Isle State Park. A former crew member and leader, she credits the program with helping her build a successful career at DCNR.
“The Outdoor Corps provided me with both skills and confidence that helped launch my career. It’s been the best decision I ever made,” said Wettekin. “It also allowed me to see the profound impact conservation work had on the young people I led — creating a sense of community and shared purpose.”
Expanding Workforce Opportunities All Across the Commonwealth
The Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps offers opportunities for young people statewide through two program formats:
- Six-week youth crews (ages 15-18): Held during the summer in locations across Pennsylvania, including Altoona, Chambersburg, Erie, Greensburg, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Lockhaven, Meadville, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Reading, Ridgway, Scranton, Wellsboro, Wilkes-Barre, Williamsport, and York. An American Sign Language Crew is also available.
- Ten-month adult crews (ages 18-25): Based in Altoona, Dubois, Harrisburg, Laurel Highlands region, Meadville, Philadelphia region, Pittsburgh, Somerset, Wilkes-Barre, and Williamsport, along with a statewide Cultural Resources and Residential Trail crew.
Alumni of the program have gone on to work with leading conservation organizations, including DCNR, SCA, National Park Service, and U.S. Forest Service, benefitting from their hands-on experience and specialized training.
Learn more about how DCNR is advancing sustainability in Pennsylvania and how Governor Shapiro is Safeguarding Our Land, Water, & Air to protect the Commonwealth’s environment.
Visit DCNR’s website for more information on the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps and check out DCNR’s Calendar of Events for more on happenings on public lands.
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