The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is looking for participants for a program reminiscent of FDR’s Civilian Conservation Corps.
It’s the inaugural season of the Virginia Service and Conservation Corps, and the State Department of Conservation and Recreation needs 17 people to help preserve and protect 3 Virginia parks. They are Pocahontas State park in Chesterfield, Leesylvania State Park in Woodbridge, and Hungry Mother State Park in Marion. Unlike the Civilian Conservation Corps which helped build many of Virginia’s state parks, the participants of the VSCC won’t be living on site. Department spokesman Jim Meisner.
“The primary responsibility for crews is working in state parks, public lands, train construction and maintenance, controlling invasive species, helping with ecosystems and the park lands.”
In addition, Meisner says the crews will be available for short-term deployments for disaster relief. Participants will complete 17 hundred hours of service during a 10 month period from November through August. They’ll be paid 12 hundred 10 dollars a month and are eligible for a 56 hundred dollar award at the end of their term of service which can be applied to college and used to repay student loans. The program is funded by Americorps.
“To participate, you have to be at least 17 years old. You have to have the physical stamina and ability to work outside under all weather conditions; a dedication to public service, and be willing to be there when you’re needed.”
Meisner says the program will help participants develop leadership qualities and become active stewards of America’s natural and cultural resources.