Sierra Conservation Center (SCC)

Nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, the Sierra Conservation Center (SCC) in Jamestown, California, is a cornerstone of the state’s correctional system. Established with the primary mission of housing and rehabilitating minimum and medium custody inmates, SCC plays a pivotal role in California’s efforts to offer inmates pathways to rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

SCC has a unique role in the state’s public safety infrastructure as a training hub for wildland firefighting. This is part of the Conservation Camp Program, conducted in collaboration with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). Inmates receive training in firefighting techniques and are dispatched to combat wildfires, providing a vital service and gaining valuable skills.

The facility accommodates up to 3,936 inmates and is organized into dormitory-type facilities for varying custody levels. The center is notable for its extensive educational and vocational programs designed to equip inmates with skills for post-incarceration life. Inmates have access to Adult Basic Education, General Educational Development (GED) programs, and various vocational trades, including auto mechanics, welding, masonry, and carpentry.

Visitation at SCC is structured to maintain family connections, with the latest schedule allowing weekend visits from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. These visits are an essential aspect of the rehabilitation process, supporting inmates’ emotional and social well-being.

Leading SCC as the acting Warden since February 2024 is Joshua Prudhel. His leadership is part of a broader commitment to ensuring that the facility serves its dual role of maintaining public safety and providing transformative opportunities for those incarcerated. Through its comprehensive programs and community-oriented initiatives, SCC continues to exemplify the balance between correctional management and rehabilitation.

For further information about the Sierra Conservation Center, including inmate records search and visitation details, individuals can refer to the official website of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation or utilize online inmate search platforms specific to the state of California.