ACE Crew FAQs

 Top 8 Questions Asked by CREW Applicants


Interested in joining the conservation movement? Want to know if conservation service is the right fit for you?
 

Here’s a list of FAQs to get you started. We offer additional information on our General Resources page including additional FAQs and feel free to reach out to apply-ace@usaconservation.org

1. Can I serve as a Corps member if I’m over age 30?

Most of our positions are funded by federal funds earmarked for youth programs aimed at ages 18-30 and up to age 35 for veterans. There are opportunities for individuals over age 30 to volunteer to benefit public lands, for example, the National Park Service has a volunteer program. Learn more here: https://www.nps.gov/getinvolved/volunteer.htm.

2. I’m not much of a hiker or camper – would I be considered?

Many of our members don’t consider themselves ‘outdoor enthusiasts’ when they join a crew. We provide the training needed to fulfill the role and project and experience is not needed. What is needed is a flexible attitude, realistic expectations (i.e. you expect to stay in shared housing or a tent and not a fancy hotel), and a desire to try new things.

3. I’m only available at certain times of the year – when are your opportunities available?

Our terms are 3, 6, 9 months or longer and are available year round. We post our positions 2-4 months in advance and for summer positions we generally post the opportunities during the March – April timeframe. View our Serve with Crew website page for our latest openings. 

View Remaining FAQs Here

Is housing offered? What about my travel to the program site?

We do not cover your travel costs to a project location. That is your responsibility. However, for the majority of crew positions, we provide housing and meals are included while you’re on a project. You will receive a living allowance to help cover incidentals.

ACE provides transportation to and from worksites; personal vehicles are not necessary throughout the member’s term of service.

What is the housing like?

We provide shared ‘hostel style’ housing in our existing facilities in our hub locations. When working in remote locations, we stay at campgrounds, bunkhouses, AirBnBs, tents, and more.

Do I need to bring my own gear?

ACE provides each member with their own tent, uniform, and assigns each crew with camp cooking and kitchenware. The member will provide their own sleeping bag, sleeping pad, rain gear, pants, warm clothing, and hiking boots. We provide a detailed packing list and access to discounted pro-deals from leading manufacturers in outdoor gear and apparel.

What type of projects would I work on?

Projects may include but are not limited to:

  • Habitat restoration
  • Trail construction and maintenance
  • Dry and wet stone masonry
  • Reforestation
  • Forest thinning
  • Plant identification
  • Fencing
  • Invasive species removal
  • Historic Preservation
Can I serve on an ACE Crew and have visible tattoos and piercings?

Yes, tattoos and piercings are fine, as long as they are not in violation of ACE’s commitment to foster an inclusive environment, free of discrimination and harassment. 

Additionally, any newer tattoos and/or piercings must be fully and completely healed before beginning your term of service with ACE or you must seek ACE supervisor approval prior to beginning your term of service. New piercings and tattoos require sterile and dry conditions, no sun exposure, and a specific aftercare routine in order to heal properly and prevent infection. Because participating in Crew involves doing rigorous work projects outdoors for extended periods of time in all weather, it is generally not possible to safely care for a new tattoo or piercing while participating in Crew. Additionally, time off will not be given to ACE members to support the healing of a body modification completed during a term of service. 

Anything else that's important for me to know?

Due to weather, partner requests, or other developments, we sometimes need to change our plans on short notice. Flexibility and adaptability are essential for a positive conservation crew experience.

We provide housing in most locations, food and transportation while on projects, a living allowance and more. Visit your nearest location webpage for details.

Don’t have a lot of outdoor experience? No problem. Not familiar with chainsaws or other equipment? No worries. We provide training.

Individuals with an open mind, willing to do some physical labor, get a little dirty, and have a flexible nature are a good fit. And a sense of humor doesn’t hurt!

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