Protect Biological Diversity and Improve Visitor Experience by Removing Exotic Plants (PLC) - SACN

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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Master Cooperative Agreement Number P15AC00009 was entered into by and in between the Department of the Interior, the National Park Service (NPS), and the Conservation Corps of Minnesota & Iowa for the purpose of placement of high school and college-aged individuals and other qualified persons who volunteer their services in exchange for training and education experiences in resource management, safety, job-readiness and technical skills, and helps young people develop personal responsibility, a strong work ethic and greater awareness of environmental stewardship. The objective is to support and stimulate work and/or education and training opportunities for youth and young adults through collaborative participation in managing invasive plant species that threaten the environment and visitor experience to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Task Agreement P16AC00312 original agreement was for $24,200.00 (with $9,927.58 in cost share) and a modification to add additional funding for $20,636.02 is required to fund the current project activities. STATEMENT OF WORK: The Conservation Corps intends to implement a best practice approach to invasive species management that incorporates project work and education. This will be accomplished by hiring Conservation Corps crews to work at St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. The crews will consist of two young adult leaders and 6 high school youth each. The Conservation Corps crews will complete invasive plant removal through cutting with loppers and hand saws. Invasive plants may also be pulled by hand and assist with habitat restoration and other park projects. RECIPIENT AGREES TO: 1) Provide and assign Conservation Corps crew and crew leasers to projects agreed upon by Conservation Corps and the NPS, 2) Provide mainland transportation for crews and crew leaders to and from the project sites, 3) Set up camp (provide tents and other camping equipment when deemed necessary) near the project sites or commute daily from a nearby shop location, 4) Provide personal items and ground transportation as required to complete the project identified, 5) Handle all administrative records required for stewardships in the program, 6) Provide and maintain for any bodily injury and liability insurance coverage for all Conservation Corps members, 7) Provide safety plan that includes various job safety analysis for the work tasks, 8) Provide first aid and CPR training with daily tailgate safety sessions, and 8) Provide personal safety equipment. NATIONAL PARK SERVICE AGREES TO: NPS is substantially involved and agrees to: 1) Assign NPS employees, who are fully qualified and experienced, to provide technical advice for crews and crew leaders providing work under this Task Agreement, 2) Provide available tools and specialized equipment as required, and 3) Provide a safe working environment and educational opportunities for Conservation Corps crew members.

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