CDCR

Conservation (Fire) Camps

Facts and figures

Total Staff (CDCR) 2009: 9
Total Staffing (CAL-FIRE/LAC) 2009: 17
Total # Inmates (as of 12/31/2009): 110

Camp Products

Conservation Project for Scrub Oaks, Live Oaks, and Cottonwood Trees

Community service projects

McCain Valley crews conduct maintenance at local parks, Little League fields, and provide firewood for elderly residents in the community. In 2010, McCain was given a Community Service Award from the Boulevard Fire and Rescue Department (BFRD) for assistance in acquiring the materials for the new community sign nearby. Their assistance was requested when the Boulevard Fire and Rescue Department (BFRD) decided the old sign was no longer worth repairing and replacement was more in order. Using donated and salvaged materials, McCain crews were able to complete the new sign at no cost to the community.

Welcome to McCain Valley Conservation Camp #21

2550 McCain Valley Rd., Boulevard CA. 91905
(619) 766-4393

Camp Staff

Jerry Balvanz, Camp Commander

Custody Staff: 1 Lieutenant, 1 Sergeant, 7 Officers
CalFire Staff: .5 Division Chief, 10 Fire Captains, 1 Heavy Fire Equipment Operator, 1 Office Technician

Camp History

McCain Valley Conservation Camp was established in 1986. Since its inception, the program has evolved into a highly mobile work force engaging in all forms of risk disaster mitigation, pre-fire fuel management, the development and maintenance of fire defense improvements, and facilities, and the performance of conservation related projects for local, state, and federal agencies. This program provides convicted felons with the opportunity to give something back to California citizens while paying their debt to society.

In addition to the missions listed above, the Camp Administration is an active participant in the Border Agency Fire Council (BAFC).

In 2007 this Camp played a direct role in controlling the wildfires that occurred on the border between the United States and Mexico involving nearly 20,000 acres of wild land. The camp also assisted in controlling wildfires in Shasta, Riverside, San Bernadino, and San Diego counties. Saving California taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Inmate Programs

Information not available.