CDCR-Alder Conservation Camp #20

You can support your loved ones at Alder Camp #20 on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 707-482-2761.

Alder Camp #20 is a minimum-security facility under CDCR supervision, this camp plays a crucial role in supporting government agencies during emergency responses to wildfires, floods, and other natural or man-made disasters. Additionally, camp crews contribute to park maintenance, assist with flood mitigation through sandbagging, and participate in reforestation projects. Participation in the Conservation (Fire) Camp Program is entirely voluntary for incarcerated individuals. Those who choose to volunteer must meet specific eligibility criteria aimed at ensuring public safety. These include avenues for criminal record expungement, creating new pathways for employment, and aiding in their successful reintegration into society.

Alder Camp #20, established in April 1961, plays a pivotal role in the Humboldt-Del Norte Ranger Unit Areas by providing incarcerated hand crews to combat fires. While the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) is responsible for crew selection, supervision, care, and discipline, CAL FIRE oversees camp maintenance, supervises incarcerated fire crews' work, and ensures their custody during daily projects. In instances requiring response outside the local area, CDCR staff may accompany the crews.

Incarcerated hand crews at Alder Camp are also engaged in conservation and community service projects, with CAL FIRE determining project priorities. These projects encompass a diverse range of tasks, including brushing roads and trails, constructing fuel breaks, installing and removing fences, undertaking construction projects, conducting trash and litter cleanup, maintaining buildings, clearing ditches, preventing floods, removing trees, and abating weeds. Their efforts contribute significantly to environmental preservation and community welfare.

Moreover, Alder Camp participants actively contribute to the Santa’s Workshop program in Crescent City throughout the year. Under CAL FIRE's guidance and supervision, they craft toys for local children, distributed through government agencies during the Christmas season. Renowned for its woodworking prowess, Alder Camp is capable of milling and curing various wood species, producing high-quality products such as cabinets, desks, benches, signs, and small crafts.

In addition to practical skills development, Alder Camp offers a range of rehabilitative and educational services, consistent with CDCR standards. These services include substance abuse programs like Alcoholics/Narcotics Anonymous (AA/NA), religious programs, and access to GED and college courses through remote college programs. Notably, participants are trained and certified for state-level Water Treatment and Wastewater Treatment Programs, expanding their skills and enhancing their employability upon release.

The collective efforts of incarcerated individuals at Alder Camp foster a strong work ethic and instill a sense of self-worth, contributing to their successful integration back into their communities upon release. Through firefighting, conservation projects, toy-making initiatives, and educational opportunities, Alder Camp endeavors to empower participants with the tools and resources necessary for positive reintegration and long-term success.

Connect with your Inmate

The camp offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Alternatively, setting up an account through a third-party phone company may entail high fees per minute of usage. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

Books and magazines ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. The Jail enforces this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

Inmate workers are chosen based on conduct and cooperation with staff. Participation in the community service program can sometimes reduce sentences. Commissary is available weekly, and on holidays, there may be increased spending limits. Upon receiving commissary items, inmates must present their ID, check their order, and sign for it in the presence of the commissary employee. Indigent inmates are provided with all essential basic hygiene items including USPS stamps and writing materials.