OROVILLE – On September 9, 2026, representatives of the California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) and the State Parks Peace Officers Association of California (SPPOAC) conducted a New Employee Orientation for 32 State Park peace officer ranger cadets at the academy at Butte College.

SPPOAC President Matt Yarbrough welcomed the cadets and shared his experience as a veteran State Parks ranger. He also spoke about how union membership provided the protection and support he needed following an officer-involved shooting.

CSLEA Chief Counsel Kasey Clark discussed situations in which a State Parks ranger might need access to the Legal Defense Fund (LDF) and explained how accessible CSLEA attorneys are to members when they need legal assistance.

CSLEA Member Services Representative Marco Castro introduced the cadets to CSLEA member benefits and services, including a $15,000 life insurance benefit, scholarships, and grievance and complaint representation.

Each representative was available to answer questions and provide information about the resources available to CSLEA and SPPOAC members.  The cadets were appreciative to learn about the opportunity to participate in the PORAC health benefits plan which requires CSLEA membership as a prerequisite for participation. 

CSLEA welcomes 31 cadets to CSLEA and SPPOAC membership and wishes them well during the demanding weeks ahead at the academy.

“I am encouraged to see cadets for State Parks at the academy because there is a shortage in the number of rangers protecting people and property within our State Parks system,” said Yarbrough. “We are here for the cadets who signed up for membership and look forward to assisting them in their law enforcement careers.”