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

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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 (CCMNIA) 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. This is a modification to add additional funding to existing Task Agreement P16AC00312 to fund the current project activities. The CCMNIA intends to implement a best practice approach to invasive species management that incorporates project work and education. This will be accomplished by recruiting CCMNIA crews to work at St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. The crews will consist of two young adult leaders and six (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.

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