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The Student Conservation Association

The New York State Parks Corps program is a ten-month residential program focusing on environmental education, trail maintenance and construction, invasive species removal, and dune restoration. Members live with one to five other members in a state park and are supervised day-to-day by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation staff.

Projects include new trail construction, environmental education and interpretation, volunteer coordinator, invasive species removal, dune restoration, and more. Parks Corps members share a residential community where they live and work alongside one another for the duration of the season. They gather together for trainings and events, explore New York State Parks, and develop a sense of comradery and shared experience.

Members who successfully complete the program will receive high quality trainings and professional development support from SCA staff.   Additionally, members receive or have the option to receive the following trainings or certifications:

  • Wilderness First Aid
  • CPR Certification
  • Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG)
  • Project Learning Tree, Project Wet/Wild curriculum
  • Game of Logging Chainsaw Certification
  • Extensive Trail Construction and Maintenance Skills
  • ACA Level 1 Canoe Training
  • Leave No Trace Training
  • Leadership and Communication Training

Members of the SCA Parks Corps program use trail skills, restoration techniques, carpentry skills, and hard labor to complete an array of projects aimed at protecting and enhancing the lands and cultural resources of New York State Parks. Members also gain valuable professional connections with NYS OPRHP, extensive experience delivering environmental education and interpretation, and leadership experience.