Applications Available for Summer 2017 Conservation Corps Program

From Rockland County: County Executive Ed Day today announced that the Rockland County Youth Bureau is accepting applications for the 2017 Rockland Conservation & Service Corps (RCSC).

Conservation Corps members will perform a variety of outdoor, environmental community service projects throughout Rockland. Responsibilities include educating the public about ecological conservation and environmental health issues, conducting field research, building and maintaining nature trails, teaching environmental education, planting gardens, patrolling streams, facilitating clean ups and implementing recycling programs.

To be considered, students must be at least 18. Members are required to serve 350 hours between June 1 and August 11 at local sites including the Rockland County Division of Environmental Resources, the Clarkstown Planning Department, the Town of Ramapo, the Rockland County Drainage Agency, Rockland County Solid Waste Management Authority and Cornell Cooperative Extension, among others.

“This is a great opportunity for students to gain work experience, earn money and make a lasting contribution to their community,” said County Executive Day. “This is an experience that goes beyond the classroom.”

Members are paid a $2,100 stipend that is paid bi-weekly. Fifty hours of training at Cornell Cooperative Extension are included in the 350-hour time commitment where members are trained in areas including environmental education, trail building, conservation, curriculum development, leadership, team building, safety as well as a variety of other pertinent topics. Members will also earn valuable work and service experience, network professionally and socially, potentially earn college credit and make improvements in the community.

“It's a terrific way to build a resume, get work experience, be outdoors all summer, make contacts and meet new friends,” said Kathy Galione, Youth Bureau Program Coordinator.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate their enthusiasm for environmental issues, be committed to serving their community and be willing to participate in outdoor activities that include hot and rainy weather conditions and wet and/or wooded environments.

This is a full-time, 35-40 hours per week, opportunity over the summer that is considered community service not a job. Candidates that are selected for the program will have a summer schedule that will permit the completion of the 350-hour time commitment.

Applications are accepted until positions are filled. The program begins June 1, 2017 with most of the service taking place June through August. Candidates can request an application by phone (845) 708-7307/7308 or by e-mail rcsc@co.rockland.ny.us.

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