Nurturing Future Stewards of the Klamath Bioregion
Welcome!
The Klamath Mountains—where wild rivers, ancient forests, and enduring cultures converge—are calling forth a new generation of caretakers.
Launched through collaboration between nonprofits, educators, Tribes, and conservation professionals, the Klamath Mountains Workforce Training Network (KMWTN) is made possible by the Klamath River Fund: Community Impact Grant of the Humboldt Area Foundation and Wild Rivers Community Foundation. Additional support was provided by Coast Central Credit Union and the Redding Rancheria Community Fund at the Community Foundation of the North State.
A Career Pathway Training Program for Youth Ages 15-24
This is a paid opportunity with travel stipends to gain hands-on experience in trail work, ecological restoration, cultural education, and leadership. Equipment is provided and no experience is necessary, but space is limited and we typically receive many more applications than can be accommodated.
Workshop Dates:
- October 2025 – Beavers and Trails in Etna, CA
- January 5-6 & 12-13, 2026 – Online evening GIS skills training
- May 2-3, 2026 – Plants and Fire in Forks of Salmon, CA
What We Offer
Through KMWTN, youth and young adults (ages 15–24) from the Klamath Mountains region will receive an introduction to conservation career skills, including:
- Hands-on field workshops led by experts in restoration, forestry, and ecology
- Technical skills training, including GIS and cartography
- Career mentorship from seasoned professionals
- Outdoor leadership development in wilderness areas
Workshops span the year and the region—from Tribal Forestry Camp in Orleans to beaver habitat restoration in Scott Valley, from digital mapping in winter to plant and fire ecology in the Salmon River canyon. Motivated KMWTN participants are granted priority access to summer field science programs.
Our Collaborative
This work is powered by a resilient and expanding alliance of partners:
- Bigfoot Trail Alliance
- Ascend Wilderness Experience
- Scott River Watershed Council
- Salmon River Restoration Council
- Trinity Together
- The Watershed Research and Training Center
- Trinity RCD
- Shasta College
- Regional Tribal Governments and Youth Leaders
Together, we envision a future where local youth can stay rooted in their homelands, become leaders in restoration, and shape sustainable livelihoods.
💬 Questions?
Contact Mike Splain, KMWTN Project Manager:
📧 mike@bigfoottrail.org
