Through site visits, a case study was made of the California Conservation Corps (CCC) in order to provide a description of its history, objectives, program features, participants, funding patterns, future plans, and key issues scheduled to be addressed by the program. Descended from similar earlier programs, the CCC was established in 1976. After several years of drifting, the program was shaped up by a new director, B.T. Collins, who established its remaining principles and style that impressed its members, legislators, and the public. The CCC was established to maintain and develop the state's natural resources while providing work and training to its 18- through 23-year-old members. Work performed by the CCC includes firefighting, conservation, public facilities construction, developing parklands, and cleaning up environmental pollutants such as oil spills. Evaluation of the CCC shows it to have a strong positive impact on the youth who are involved in it as well as a useful role in preserving the state's resources. Of concern is the dropout rate, which is 35 to 40 percent; however, such a dropout rate is not unusual in programs of this kind, such as the Army. The CCC is now beginning to emphasize career and job development along with work attitudes, skills, and public works. Overall, the CCC is a productive, well-run program that deserves support and duplication by other states. (KC)