The Wildlife Conservation Corps (WCC), with more than 1600 members, is the largest natural resource management volunteer group in the state. WCC members are involved in all phases of Division activities from wildlife research to newsletter production. Every year volunteers contribute services valued at more than $1,000,000.

Volunteers assist in the following Division activities: operation of deer, turkey, beaver and otter check stations; spring and fall trout stocking programs; operations at the Rockport Pheasant Farm; fishing instruction and visitor services at the Pequest facility; the Urban Fishing Program; upkeep of five shooting ranges located in Wildlife Management Areas; and various activities with the Endangered and Nongame Species Program.

Volunteers also participate in the Endangered and Nongame Program’s Speaker’s Bureau, presenting slide presentations on endangered and non-game species management.

Anyone 18 years of age and older is welcome to join the Division of Fish and Wildlife as a volunteer. If interested, complete and mail an application form (pdf, 22kb), or e-mail questions to WCC_DEP@dep.state.nj.us.

DEPUTY CONSERVATION OFFICER

Deputy Conservation Officers are volunteers who meet stringent requirements and make an investment of around $1000 for equipment. Deputies work under the direct supervision of an officer and are required to volunteer a minimum of 80 hours per year of actual assistance. Interested parties are advised to contact a local Division law office to inquire as to the current need.

NOTE: The deputy program is presently under review and applications are NOT being accepted at this time.

WCC FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)