CDCR-Eel River Conservation Camp #31

You can support your loved ones at Eel River Camp #31 on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 707-923-2755.

Eel River Camp #31 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.

Eel River Conservation Camp #31 operates as a collaborative effort between the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), with a core focus on providing essential hand crews for fire suppression efforts. Established on February 2, 1967, the camp's mission extends beyond firefighting to encompass flood response, conservation projects, and community services.

Through its active participation in emergency responses to fires, floods, and various project works, Eel River Conservation Camp has demonstrated substantial cost savings exceeding a million dollars annually for California taxpayers. Notable projects include extensive contributions to public schools, state parks, roadways, and U.S. land improvement initiatives, including the successful implementation of a camp recycling program. The camp's CAL FIRE project centers around a carpentry wood shop supplying the Humboldt/Del Norte CAL FIRE Unit and the preparation of firewood for the local senior center.

In addition to firefighting duties, hand crews undertake diverse conservation and community service projects under the guidance of CAL FIRE, providing tens of thousands of work hours to local, state, and federal agencies throughout the calendar year. Projects range from work with the Southern Humboldt Unified School District and Humboldt Redwoods State Park to contributions to the Eel River Salmon Restoration Project and local road maintenance efforts.

Eel River Conservation Camp is equally committed to the rehabilitation and education of its participants, offering a comprehensive array of services to support their personal growth and successful reintegration into society. These services include substance abuse programs like Alcoholics/Narcotics Anonymous (AA/NA), religious programs, and access to GED and college courses. The camp's emphasis on emergency response fosters a strong work ethic and instills a sense of self-worth among participants, contributing to their readiness for reintegration upon release.

Furthermore, Eel River Camp provides opportunities for leisure and personal development during off-work hours, with hobby-craft programs, weight training facilities, music appreciation sessions, and other recreational activities available to participants. Visiting hours, typically held on weekends, offer families the chance to connect with their loved ones, with the option to bring picnic lunches for these visits.

The camp also hosts a variety of programs in collaboration with local volunteers, including Jehovah's Witness meetings, Eel River Christian services, group Bible studies, and the facilitation of DMV programs for California identification and driver's licenses. Additionally, camp gardening projects and contributions to victims of crime initiatives further enrich the camp's community engagement efforts, fostering a sense of connection and responsibility among participants and volunteers alike.

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.