Conservation Corps Minnesota accepting applications for 2012 program year

Conservation Corps Minnesota, which provides hands-on environmental stewardship and service-learning opportunities for young adults, is accepting applications through Dec. 2 for 150 AmeriCorps field crew leader and member positions in Minnesota and central Iowa for the 2012 program year.

All projects are completed on public land in cooperation with nonprofit organizations and government agencies like the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). These opportunities provide technical field experience and professional certifications for future natural resource careers. Many current DNR employees got their start in natural resources with the Conservation Corps (formerly Minnesota Conservation Corps).

Corps members, ages 18 to 25, receive on-the-job training in natural resource management and work on habitat restoration projects. Typical project work includes exotic species management, prairie and oak-savanna restoration, stream bank stabilization, trail building and maintenance, prescribed burning, GPS/GIS mapping and wildland fire suppression.

A crew member or leader position involves physically challenging, team-oriented work to accomplish habitat restoration and emergency response projects. Projects are usually completed outdoors and about 70 percent of them involve camping near the project location. Applicants should have an interest in working outdoors in a team setting, giving back to their community and exploring professional development opportunities.

Crew members receive a living stipend of $1,155 per month (crew leaders $1,565 per month), health insurance, student loan forbearance during the service term, and a post-service AmeriCorps Education Award that may be used for college expenses or to repay qualified student loans.

To apply, visit conservationcorps.org/apply or contact Carissa Butler, recruitment coordinator, at carissa.butler@conservationcorps.org or 651-209-9900, ext. 31.

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