The Rockland County Youth Bureau is now accepting applications for the 2026 Rockland Conservation & Service Corps (RCSC).
RCSC offers young adults (ages 18–25) an immersive environmental service experience, providing hands-on fieldwork, career development, networking opportunities, and a chance to make a lasting impact on their community.
Participants receive a $3,500 living stipend for their service and, upon completing 350 hours of service between late May and August, earn an additional $1,565.08 educational award through AmeriCorps.
Program Overview
Following a 10-day training period, Corps member participants are assigned to teams that support environmental projects designed to enhance the beauty, safety, and enjoyment, of local parks, waterways, farms, and other natural resources throughout the County.
Placements include:
Stormwater Tech Team
Partners with engineers and municipal planners to map infrastructure, inspect outfalls, monitor water quality, and utilize GIS mapping to protect local waterways.
Trail Team
Improves county and state park trails by assessing trails, repairing pathways, upgrading drainage, constructing stone steps, and building small bridges to enhance safety and accessibility.
Stream Team
Surveys 78 miles of county-regulated streams, identifying erosion, blockages, and creating detailed reports to support flood prevention and stream stabilization efforts.
Farm Team
Strengthens local food production at Cropsey and DePew Farms through irrigation improvements, pollinator habitat installation, and expanded planting initiatives.
Next Gen Team
Engages high school students in hands-on STEM learning at the Hudson River Field Station, leading watershed research and field investigations focused on estuary ecology and water quality.
“This is a great opportunity for students to gain work experience, earn money, and make a lasting contribution to their community,” said County Executive Ed Day. “This is an experience that goes far beyond the classroom.”
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a passion for environmental work & community service, and be willing to engage in physically demanding outdoor activities. The program runs from May 18th through mid-August and is a full-time (35–40 hours weekly) summer community service commitment.
“This program provides young adults with unparalleled access to mentorship, hands-on fieldwork, and career guidance that can shape their future,” said Kathy Galione, Youth Bureau Program Coordinator.
Deadline to apply is April 6th. Limited slots available. For more information or to request an application, call 845-364-2937, email rcsc@co.rockland.ny.us or visit the Rockland Conservation & Service Corps website here.
Click HERE for more information and to apply.