Alder Conservation Camp #20

Alder Conservation Camp opened in April 1961. CDCR is responsible for the selection, supervision, care and discipline of the crews. CAL FIRE maintains the camp, supervises the work of incarcerated fire crews and is responsible for their custody while on daily CAL FIRE projects. If necessary, CDCR staff may accompany the crews when they respond outside the local area.

Incarcerated hand crews also perform conservation and community service projects. CAL FIRE determines conservation projects.

Alder Camp’s completed and ongoing conservation projects include:

• Brushing roads and trails
• Fuel breaks
• Fence installation and removal
• Construction projects
• Trash and litter pickup
• Building maintenance and clean up
• Clearing ditches
• Flood prevention
• Tree removal and weed abatement
• Snow removal

Throughout the year, camp participants make toys for the Santa’s Workshop program in Crescent City, under the guidance and supervision of CAL FIRE. The toys are distributed through local government agencies to local children during the Christmas season.

Alder Camp has built a reputation for their quality of woodworking products. Alder is capable of milling and curing various wood species. These products are later used for a variety of projects including cabinets, desks, benches, signs and small crafts.

Just as in every CDCR prison, every conservation camp offers rehabilitative and educational services. Services include substance abuse programs such as Alcoholics/Narcotics Anonymous (AA/NA), religious programs, and GED and college courses through remote college programs. Alder Camp also trains and certifies participants for the state-level Water Treatment and Wastewater Treatment Programs. Their efforts during emergencies build a strong work ethic and a feeling of self-worth. Collectively, these activities prepare incarcerated camp participants for a successful integration back into their communities upon release.

For more stories featuring current and former Conservation (Fire) Camp Program participants, read Inside CDCR.

Visiting can be a critical part of an incarcerated person’s rehabilitation. For more information, visit the Scheduling Visits at Conservation (Fire) Camps page.