Beginning July 10, the Pomperaug River Watershed Coalition (PRWC) welcomed its 2018 Youth Conservation Corps crew. This group is composed of young people from various communities throughout the Pomperaug River watershed who have a passion for improving their environment. The Youth Conservation Corps is working on engaging initiatives that have a direct impact on polluted runoff abatement, pollution prevention and environmental education in the community. Collaborative projects include activities such as maintaining local trails, constructing rain gardens, improving riparian habitat, mitigating soil erosion, and more with a number of partners including Audubon Bent of the River, Southbury Land Trust, Roxbury Land Trust, and the towns of Woodbury and Southbury. The projects highlight the importance of conservation and stewardship practices. In addition, PRWC provides the crew with learning opportunities throughout the season to encourage the next generation of environmental advocates and to foster a sense of responsibility for natural resources and civic engagement. The PRWC would like to extend a special thanks to Connecticut Community Foundation for making the Youth Conservation Core possible this year.
Molly is a returning crew member from last season. Molly is a self-described environmentalist and outdoor enthusiast. She learned much about conservation, plants and water systems last summer. This summer she hopes to deepen her knowledge of native and invasive plant species, wild edible plants and watershed science.
Sam loves being outside and is not afraid of hard work (even pulling weeds!). His interest in biology and in being active and outdoors this summer makes Sam a strong team member. As a swimmer and water polo player, Sam looks forward to being near the water.
Sabryna has spent the last few summers working on a farm. That experience coupled with her environmental studies has cultivated a green thumb and a passion for nature conservation. Sabryna hopes to learn more about riparian zones, water conservation and wetland restoration.
Working outdoors comes naturally to Gianni. He loves to hike and camp and understands the importance of keeping waters and the outdoors clean. Gianni is also interested in animals and bugs and how they coexist with their environments. He hopes to learn more about wildlife preservation.
Mike is the Dr. Marc J. Taylor Intern and Youth Conservation Corps Crew Leader for the 2018 summer season. He is a recent graduate of Keene State College and an enthusiastic environmentalist. He's excited to be working with the crew and learning the ins and outs of working for a conservation organization.
Stay tuned to see what Mike and the YCC crew accomplish over the summer season.
