Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn recently joined Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps 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.

“This program not only builds future conservationists but also strengthens Pennsylvania’s workforce by providing essential skills and paid job experience,” said Secretary Dunn.

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:

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:

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.