Trail Conference Conservation Corps

Program Overview

The Trail Conference Conservation Corps (TCCC) provides hands-on opportunities for emerging environmental professionals to develop skills in trail construction, public land stewardship, and invasive species management. Through AmeriCorps service, members receive professional training, a living stipend, an education award, and direct experience working with land managers across New York’s most iconic public lands.

Position Summary

TCCC Corps Members serve on specialized crews focused on sustainable trail building, visitor education and stewardship, or invasive species management. Depending on the crew type, members may construct and maintain trails, educate park visitors, lead volunteer projects, manage invasive plants, and collect ecological data. All positions emphasize teamwork, outdoor leadership, and best conservation practices.

Members work in small crews under experienced supervisors and may collaborate with volunteers, agency partners, and the public.

Crew Focus Areas

• Trail Crew: Build and restore sustainable hiking trails using hand tools and native stone, including staircases, drainage features, and retaining walls
• Trail Stewards: Serve as front-line educators at popular trailheads, promoting Leave No Trace principles, visitor safety, and responsible recreation while supporting trail maintenance projects
• Invasives Strike Force: Conduct manual and chemical invasive species management, collect field data, create maps, and assist with ecological monitoring and reporting

Locations

• Lower Hudson Valley State Parks and Preserves (including Harriman, Bear Mountain, Sterling Forest, Hudson Highlands)
• Catskill Forest Preserve (for Steward assignments)
• Southern New York project sites (for Invasives Strike Force)

Term of Service Options

• Three-Quarter-Time (TQT) 1200 hr (April 1-November 13)- 6 Leader positions
• For other terms, priority is given to candidates available for 900-hour terms, though reduced options are available:
• Half-Time (HT): 900 hours (May 14- through October 31)
• Reduced Half-Time (RHT): 675 hours (May 14- September 19)
• Quarter-Time (QT): 450 hours (May 14- August 8)

Schedules vary slightly by crew but typically include 40-hour work weeks with required weekend work. All positions are outdoors in variable weather conditions.

  Required Qualifications

• Passion for environmental conservation and outdoor work
• Ability to perform physically demanding fieldwork (hiking long distances, lifting up to 50 lbs, depending on role)
• Comfort working outdoors in varied weather and terrain
• Strong teamwork, reliability, and willingness to learn
• Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle
• Must meet AmeriCorps eligibility requirements (age 18+, HS diploma/GED, U.S. citizen or permanent resident, pass background checks)