Had I only known years ago that I could have spent my high school summers in Yellowstone National Park I would have been there in a heartbeat. But I didn't know. But here's the word that your kids have an opportunity now to sign up for the Youth Conservation Corps program in Yellowstone this summer.

The Youth Conservation Corps is a residential work program for young men and women between the ages of 15 and 18. The program is designed to develop an appreciation for the nation's natural resources and heritage through unique educational, recreational, and work experiences.

Initiated in 1984, Yellowstone’s YCC Program recruits youth from all social, economic, ethnic and racial backgrounds. Corps members work together under adult leadership to complete conservation projects such as rehabilitation of trails, campground restoration, and a wide variety of resource management and maintenance projects. Through this experience, young people develop their job and leadership skills while further exploring personal values, gaining self-esteem, practicing self-discipline, expanding their awareness of work ethics, and learning firsthand about environmental and conservation issues.

Corps members will also participate in recreational activities and discover the many options for careers in the National Park Service and other agencies. Many of these activities take place in the evenings and on weekends. Activities may include: hiking, rafting, fishing, ranger-led programs, enrollee and staff presentations, assisting field rangers and/or scientists, seminars with special guest speakers, and trips throughout the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

No previous wilderness experience is required, but a willingness and ability to work in a physically active outdoor program, getting along well with others, and maintaining a positive attitude are essential for success.

Yellowstone National Park will offer two, four and one-half week YCC sessions this summer. Session 1 will begin June 13 and run through July 12; and Session 2 will begin July 16 and end August 14. Applicants will be asked to indicate their first and second choice of session.

Participants will be required to live on location, and room and board will be provided at a minimal cost. Wages will be set at the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Applicants must be citizens of the United States and be 15 years of age by June 13, but not over 18 years of age by August 14.

For further information and application materials visit www.nps.gov/yell/parkmgmt/yccjobs.htm. Questions may be directed to the park’s YCC Program Manager by calling (307) 344-2729. Completed
application materials must be received no later than April 15, 2010.

The Yellowstone YCC Program is supported by the Yellowstone Park Foundation through generous donations from the men and women of the Loyal Order of the Moose. Since 1989, members of the Moose have generously donated over $2 million in support of Yellowstone's YCC program. For more information on the Loyal Order of the Moose go to: www.mooseintl.org.