Conservation Corps

The residential summer youth corps engages diverse youth, ages 15-18, in environmental restoration projects during one summer session. In 2024, 35 youth participants, 11 americorps members, and 3 part time staff completed 18,729 hours of training and environmental service learning projects. This past year, crews built and maintained 15 miles of trail, removed invasive species from 86 acres, and planted 79 trees or forbs. Participants receive a living stipend as well as room and board. Americorps members receive a monthly stipend, health insurance, and an education award for college expenses.

Youth outdoors is an afterschool service learning program for twin cities youth. Youth participate for one academic semester at a time, meeting two days a week after school and on saturdays to explore science and the environment and complete projects to improve parks and restore resources. Summer opportunities are also available. In 2024, 21 youth participants and 31 americorps members completed 25,411 hours of environmental service learning projects. This past year, youth outdoors participants managed exotic plant species on 241 acres of land, planted 7,539 trees and shrubs, removed 200 pounds of debris, and engaged in 3,080 hours of training. Youth participants earn an hourly wage. Americorps members receive a monthly stipend, health insurance and an education award for college expenses. In addition to career and work skills training, members receive certifications in wildfire suppression, defensive driving, chainsaw safety and first aid.