Backcountry Trails Program (BCTP) members spend over five months based at remote wilderness locations throughout California performing physically demanding manual labor in a variety of intense conditions, and living in a tight-knit and diverse community.
In addition to trail work, members participate in regular camp chores, position-related training, physical training, daily curriculum and education, environmental awareness, cooperative living skills, and exploration of surrounding wilderness areas.
It is not a prerequisite that members know how to do trail work or that they are exceptionally strong. However, it is essential that members are willing to work very hard to produce quality work with minimal direct supervision while following important safety guidelines.
Service Activities
Essential Functions:
• Performing trail work
• Engaging in crew community development and personal development
• Managing and maintaining a backcountry camp
Secondary Functions:
• Engaging in wilderness exploration
• Developing and participating in extracurricular activities outside of program curriculum
• Engaging with members of the general public as well as land management officials to develop good public relations and promote the backcountry trails program
Community Need Addressed
Members will help public land management agencies address the backlog of deferred trail work.
Position Outcomes
Trails treated by members will be more environmentally sustainable and provide improved access to public lands.
Benefits
Education award upon successful completion of service, Health coverage, Housing, Non-competitive eligibility (federal jobs), Stipend, Student loan forbearance, Training
A required $400.00 deduction from the monthly stipend pays for all meals and housing.
Education Benefits
Wilderness First Aid, CPR
Skills you will gain
Trail construction & maintenance skills, Wilderness First Aid, CPR, minimum impact camping/wilderness ethics, community building, backpacking skills, backcountry camp set-up
Competencies You Will Develop
Communication
Demonstrate sensitivity and empathy, Lead group discussion, Listen to and consider others' viewpoints, Maintain open lines of communication with others
Creativity & Problem Solving
Able to identify and define the problem, Capable of generating possible solutions, Communicate the problem to appropriate personnel, Improvise, Provide relevant expertise
Teamwork
Develop constructive working relationships and maintain them over time, Establish a high degree of trust and credibility with others, Interact professionally and respectfully with supervisors and co-workers, Stay positive and outcome oriented, Use appropriate strategies and solutions for dealing with conflicts and differences to maintain a smooth workflow
Decisions
Accepts responsibility, Anticipate the consequences of decisions
Tools
Carefully consider which tools or technological solutions are appropriate for a given job, Operate tools and equipment in accordance with established operating procedures, safety standards, and ethical guidelines
Planning
Create environment of contribution, Demonstrate the effective allocation of time and resources efficiently, Set goals
Service
Be pleasant, courteous, professional and respectful when dealing with internal and external customers or clients, Honor the privilege of being able to work with and for those being served, Understand and anticipate the needs of others, Understand the importance of one's role in the functioning of the organization, Understand the significance of maintaining a healthful and safe environment