Exotic Vegetation Control and Desert Springs Habitat Restoration

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The principal purpose of this agreement is to support and stimulate work, education, and/or training opportunities for young adults through habitat restoration by the removal and control of exotic and invasive vegetation at desert spring ecosystems in wilderness, back country, and developed areas of the park. Exotics to be controlled include salt cedar and other non-native woody plants, non-native palms, oleander, rabbit foot grass, and a variety of other exotics and non-native plants that may require treatment. This project will support learning opportunities for students and youth groups in environmental education, stewardship, and the mission of the NPS. This project is seasonal in nature and work will generally be conducted between early fall and late spring. Removal of exotic vegetation at desert springs will improve the condition of many highly visible and ecologically important riparian resources. The project work will not only benefit the natural ecology of desert spring environments by promoting the re-establishment of native vegetation and enhancing wildlife habitats, but will also improve and enrich visitor enjoyment of these resources. The program model for this cooperative agreement utilizes youth participants aged 15-25 to restore natural and cultural resources while providing educational opportunities and hands-on work experience that will expose them to opportunities to discover the many components involved in the management of park resources. These types of activities are important to the conservation and education programs of the NPS and will be beneficial to the personal growth of young adults while assisting the NPS with managing its natural and cultural resources.

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