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USDA [Department of Agriculture]/AmeriCorps - Clinton Library Copies - 1995 Application (for FY96) to the Corporation for National Service 4 [1]
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USDA [Department of Agriculture]/AmeriCorps - Clinton Library Copies - 1995 Application (for FY96) to the Corporation for National Service 4 [1]
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FOIA Number: 2013-0661-F
(3)
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the William J. Clinton
Presidential Library Staff.
Collection/Record Group:
Clinton Presidential Records
Subgroup/Office of Origin:
Americorps
Series/Staff Member:
General Files
Subseries:
OA/ID Number:
24227
FolderID:
Folder Title:
USDA [Department of Agriculture]/AmeriCorps - Clinton Library Copies - 1995 Application (for FY
96) to the Corporation for National Service 4 [1]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
S
66
1
5
3
34
Community and Other Agencies Projects
California State Parks
70 miles of trail maintenance (Brushing/Hazard Reduction)
70 miles of road maintenance (Brushing/Hazard Reduction)
Storm Damage reclamation in:
Richardson Grove State Park
Standish Hickey State Park
Siskiyone Wilderness
Humboldt Redwoods State Parks
Para-professional assistance doing a variety FEMA work.
Bureau of Land Management
Trail building and maintenance in the Kings Range
Biological/Fisheries Surveys in key watersheds within the Mattole Basin.
Campground and facility maintenance.
City of Arcata
Natural Resource work associated with forestry, fisheries, wildlife
habitat. recycling, wetlands and recreation.
"Project Serve" - Eureka High School
Environmental Education Programs
A joint Community Service Project at "Ryan's Slough".
Other Collaborators
There are a number of other partners which will make in-kind and cash
contributions to this AmeriCorps Project listed under #4 Prospective
Recipients/Partners.
What is hoped for result of the activities described above?
The Northern California AmeriCorps Program will result in an integrated program
of public service conservation work and the development of AmeriCorps Members.
The program will provide for critical resource based work that would not be
accomplished if it were not for the AmeriCorps Program. The work and
activities associated with AmeriCorps will have a number of positive benefits.
Some of the key benefits will be restored watersheds, improved wildlife
habitat, productive anadromous fisheries, quality recreational experiences, and
protection of the nation's capital resources by repairing, improving and
restoring it's campgrounds and other facilities. In addition, America's youth
and the community will learn about the environment and the concept of
"intergenerational equity".
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The AmeriCorps Members themselves will have the opportunity to engage in an
intensely integrated program of conservation work and experiential education.
The program will be dedicated to the dual mission of public service
conservation work and the development of young adults. The educational program
is progressive and productive in achieving this mission. AmeriCorps members
will learn the basic fundamental work ethics, learn how to live and work with
others; the experience will enhance their educational opportunities and
employ-ability, and further their understanding and appreciation of the earth
and its natural resources. In addition, members will earn college level units
of credit from the College of the Redwoods towards the Natural Resource
Technician Certificate (30 semester hours).
We are hopeful that the collaborations we have developed will lead to a future
of environmental and public land associations which will have long term
payoffs.
How will you measure the quality of these activities?
The quality of the AmeriCorps activities will be measured through
achievement and completion of projected goals. We will evaluate standards
which meet the objectives of AmeriCorps, the Forest Service and our
consortium which includes the California Conservation Corps, the College of
Redwoods, and the local Land Management Agencies. Bach project will be
inspected to ensure objectives are met and quality control is maintained.
We will also do scheduled self assessments of our program components and
will spend quality time interviewing the AmeriCorps participants and
Program Leaders to ensure success.
By what standard will you measure success?
Standards for measuring success will be evaluated by meeting or exceeding
identified program objectives and targets, by project accomplishment, by
meeting AmeriCorps Member goals, and minimal program attrition. In
addition, AmeriCorps Member outplacement to colleges and other educational
entities, work opportunities and other personal interests.
How many individuals will receive the benefit of the work your members perform?
The Six Rivers NF and surrounding public lands encompasses approximately 15
communities and serves over 200,000 people. Approximately 300 to 400
children will receive environmental education. There is an expected
increase of 10 to 20% of visitors to the Forest and adjacent State and
National Parks. The Six Rivers National Forest, other federal land
management agencies, the contiguous public and others associated with
Northwestern California will realize tangible and intangible benefits.
AmeriCorps members will receive life long experiential awareness in the
area of ecosystem management, public service and "getting things done" in a
team environment.
3. SUMMARY PAGE:
Accomplishments and Objectives: This proposal provides a strategy for
community and economic revitalization in an area impacted by the declining
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96.8
timber industry as a result of the listing of the spotted owl and marbled
murrelet under the Endangered Species Act. This proposal also provides public
service work to include restoration of watersheds and to areas damaged by the
1995 Floods and severe storms. Humboldt County, along with a number of
California counties, has been designated as a Federal Disaster area. The recent
flooding and severe storms have caused damage to infrastructures, trails, and
roads. Storms have blown down trees and have caused slides. The flooding has
also caused a potential threat to salmon population.
Community Needs: The Six Rivers National Forest is taking a leadership role in
sponsoring a proposal which will enhance in the management of public land
natural resources within Forest's boundaries as well as partnering with other
land management agencies to provide AmeriCorps Members with an opportunity to
be involved in an integrated program of conservation work and experiential
education. The conservation work will address the needs of the community and
the environment by working on high priority projects to respond to critical
environmental and storm damage needs as well as public safety.
Typical Work Week: The project is a 5 day a week residential program for the
resource based conservation crew. The para-professionals (Interns) will
perform national service on 5 day a week schedule performing a variety of
resource conservation and ecological assignments. Each day the Members will
perform public service by engaging in an integrated program of conservation
work, residential living, and applied education. The focus will be on applied
resource conservation and protection. AmeriCorps members will also be provided
the opportunity to work towards a college accredited Natural Resource
Conservation Technician Certificate which can be used for qualifying for entry
level Forestry/Biological Technician positions. Much of the instruction will
be delivered at the work site based on kinetic learning where knowledge moves
from the hand to the mind. In addition, classes will be made available for
members desiring to obtain a General Education Diploma (GED). The natural
resource crew will participate in a minimum of 10 spike camps. The
para-professionals will be mentored and given assignments based on the approved
program of work and their individual interests and abilities.
Recruitment: A diverse group of members will be recruited from both urban and
rural areas. Because our local area and economy is economically depressed we
will target family members of displaced timber workers as well as tribal
members and representatives of minority groups. We will coordinate recruitment
with the local high schools, junior college, and Humboldt State University, the
EDD office, Private Industry Council, and other organizations and groups, and
utilize the Corporation's applicant pool listings to ensure that our member
composition is representative in terms of diversity, social, economic and
educational backgrounds.
Staffing Structure: The Six Rivers National Forest will have a 37 person
AmeriCorps Project. 28 members will be assigned to the resource based crew, 9
members will be selected to be part of the para-professional (interns) cadre.
The Forest Service will have direct responsibility for operating, managing,
payrolling, and member processing.
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Project Staffing will be comprised of:
Project Director
HRP Staff
Project Manager
2 Forest Service Crew Supervisors
Forest Service Project Leaders
Forest Service Para-professional mentors
A Board of Directors comprised of the participating partners will be
created to provide guidance, program evaluation and coordination of the
project.
Partners: Six Rivers NF AmeriCorps Project will include partners from state
local, city, educational, non-profit, and federal agencies. This AmeriCorps
Consortium, will work together to provide a high quality, productive,
meaningful collaboration in achieving direct results in addressing the nation's
critical environmental/public lands. See #4. "Collaboration".
4. COLLABORATION
PRIMARY PARTNERS:
Collaboration - Contributions
Name of Contributor
Type
Monetary
Inkind
Six Rivers NF
Federal
$15,000
supplies, transportation,
administration, payroll,
program oversight
California Conservation
State Agency
$32,592
supplies, transportation,
Corps
room & board, tools,
counseling, training,
recruitment assistance
Bureau of Land
Federal
$10,000
project
Management
Interior
coordination/tools
Redwood National Park
Federal
project
coordination/tools
California State Parks
State
$75,000
project
coordination/tools
City of Arcata,
City Govt
$5,000
project
Environmental Services
coordination/tools
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Eureka High School
City
classrooms, students,
teachers' targeted
environmental projects,
"Project Serve"
Coordination for
AmeriCorps State
Commission, recruitment
College of the Redwoods State
On-site
instruction, materials,
NRCT Certificate
Trinity Resource Con-
Natural Res.
Technical support/tools
servation/Emergency/
Conservation
Watershed Program
Service,
Federal, USDA
Natural Resource Con-
Federal/USDA
Technical support/tools
servation Service/Bureka
Eureka Chamber of
City
tourism information, will
Commerce
provide space for FS
displays
Big Brother/Big Sister
Nonprofit
provide resources for
Fishing Derby
Burnt Ranch Elementary
County
provide classroom time
School
and space for
Environmental Learning
Trinity Valley School
County
provide classroom time
and space for
Environmental Learning
Freshwater Elementary
County
provide classroom time
School
and space for
Environmental Learning
Cutten Elementary
School District
provide classroom time
and space for
Environmental Learning
Jacoby Creek School
School District
provide classroom time
and space for
Environmental Learning
St. Bernards Elementary
Nonprofit
provide classroom time
School
and space for
Environmental Learning
Bloomfield School
City
provide classroom time
and space for
Environmental Learning
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349
Redwood Logging
Nonprofit
space for display during
Conference
conference/media support
Public Access TV Arcata
Nonprofit
provides edit time for
AmeriCorps to do video
project/media support
Skyland County Park-
County
hosts a state wide nature
Santa Clara
learning experience for
hundreds of youth
Girl Scouts
Nonprofit
provides resource and
(Campfire Program)
support for interns to do
a campfire program
Caltrans
State
provides technical
support/road funding,
interface for storm
emergency i.e. land
slides
Humboldt State Univ.
State
provide resources for
educational support of
project, recruitment,
career day site
Employment Development
State
provide resources for job
Department
seeking and personal
growth, recruitment
Private Industry Council
County
recruitment and
administers JTPA funds
Yurok Tribe
Federal
technical support and
recruitment
California Indian
Federal
recruitment
Manpower Consortium
Humboldt County Health
County
Public Health Training
Department
5. Organization Capacity
The Six Rivers National Forest has an outstanding record for administering and
managing human resource programs. The forest is involved with a number of
human resource programs ranging from federally administered to direct host
programs. During FY94, the forest hosted approximately 310 enrollees in
various programs, and accomplished $660,000 of appraised work on the forest.
The forest is currently operating a 25 person AmeriCorps Project. We believe
that our program has been very successful in accomplishing the specified goals
and objectives of the program. We have experienced minimal attrition since the
66
start of the program (3 members) The project diversity represents 54%
minority, 54% women and 4% physically challenged. Our members have varying
degrees of education ranging from graduate school to GED preparation.
The Six Rivers National Forest is extremely pleased and fortunate to be part of
the AmeriCorps Program. Line managers are very supportive of the program, work
is being accomplished which would not have been had it not been for AmeriCorps.
Key People involved the AmeriCorps Project:
Tony Montana
Forest Service Project Director - Serves as the forest Human
Resource Manager. Tony has varied experience in designing
and administering Human Resource Programs. He has
successfully implemented several programs including the
TRIAD (Establishing a partnership with the CCC and College
of the Redwoods to implement the Natural Resource
Certificate) a college accredited curriculum which qualifies
recipients for technician series with the Forest Service. He
has demonstrated several years of successful experience as
an Administrator in all aspects of administration.
Mary McManus
Forest Service - Human Resource Coordinator, she has worked
with the Director in implementing the AmeriCorps Project.
For the past 19 years she has successfully worked in the
human resource arena including direct experience with Job
Corps.
Dan Ferriera
California Conservation Corps - Currently serves as the CCC
and AmeriCorps project developer. He has demonstrated
several years of program success with the California
Conservation Corps as a Conservationist. Dan is quite
instrumental in the establishment of a number of human
resource activities and programs.
Dan Owen
Forest Service - Dan is the AmeriCorps Crew Supervisor Dan
has varied experience including the military, and has also
worked several years for the California Conservation Corps
as a crew leader. He is successful in leading and directing
resource conservation crews.
Bob Cox - PHD
California Conservation Corps - Bob is a visionary who has
successfully implemented experiential learning and kinetic
learning principles for the CCC crews. He also was a leader
in writing the TRIAD agreement with Tony Montana.
Mark Andre
City of Arcata - Environmental Services Manager - Mark
oversees the the management of the public lands within the
city boundaries to include a Redwood Forest and the Arcata
Marsh, and Wildlife Sanctuary, and the state of the art
wetland wastewater treatment
plant.
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351
Don Beers
California State Parks - Don is the resource program manager
for the the State Parks in this locality. He has several
years experience in resource work activity and program
management.
Dave Fuller
Bureau of Land Management Fisheries Biologist. Dave has
several successful years experience in working as a
Fisheries Biologist and as interfacing with resource crews
to complete program of work.
Terry Hofstra
Redwood Parks Terry is the resource program manager for
the District Office. He has several years experience in
resource management activities.
Alona Thomas
Eureka High School - Alona is the designated network
coordinator for AmeriCorps Projects for the northern portion
of the State. She has successfully developed a network with
all of the area projects and also implemented "Project
Serve", a community based volunteer program. The FS has
established a working relationship with the Eureka city
schools in providing Environmental Education and Resource
expertise to the students.
6. Innovation and Replicability
The current program being operated represents a number of unique features which
are currently being duplicated or considered by other projects.
Our program is comprised of a residential member component as well as a
para-professional or intern component. The "para-professional or intern"
component has proved to be very beneficial and quite popular with the forest
unit. The intern component features AmeriCorps Members who have the requisite
skills, knowledges and abilities in a number of biological and other
professional areas which are then tailored to a number of the key objectives
planned for the project year. The interns work independently, in small groups,
or with the resource based crew in getting things done.
This program also has a "work/learn" feature that provides for actual formal
accredited educational college instruction, that allows for the AmeriCorps
Members to gain the theoretical education coupled with the actual "hands on"
experience in the course of project accomplishment. This feature awards units
of college credit leading to a 30 semester hour "Natural Resource Conservation
Technician Certificate". This phase of the program which is called the
"Triad", is an existing approved agreement with Six Rivers National Forest,
College of Redwoods, and California Conservation Corps. For this coming
project year, we propose to recruit/place our AmeriCorps Members using the
Federal Government Student Placement Appointment authority into entry level
Natural Resource Conservation Technician series upon completion of their
AmeriCorps appointment. The AmeriCorps members' experience will enable them to
be eligible for placement in our Agency's Cooperative Education Program which
leads to a career appointment in the federal service. One month prior to the
member's graduation each selected participant would be assigned to forest for a
formal work experience.
68
The collaborations we have established will allow for true cooperation by
communities, land management agencies and the educational institutions to pool
their resources and technology in getting things done for the betterment of the
nation's public lands and overall environment. This effort may serve as a
benchmark in fostering similar cooperative agreements in the future. This
approach parallels the features of the "President's Plan" for the Northwest.
This program will be a model of efficiency and will prove to be cost effective
and innovative. The expansion to involve the community and increased
cooperative efforts of the partners will influence the program replicability.
The networking will strengthen our relationship with the communities as well as
the other funded State Commissioned AmeriCorps programs to support and carry
forward public service.
7. Recruitment Plan
Purpose:
To obtain high quality and a diverse group of applicants, recruitment outreach
will emphasize personal contacts made with a number of organizations and
media. Outreach of candidates will be conducted with the goal of achieving a
representative intake of volunteers indicative of the demographics of this area
in terms of education level, ethnic background, socio-economic class, religion,
gender, physical abilities and age. Members will be selected for their desire
to serve and the contribution that they can make to the program. The desired
ratio of applicants is 4-1.
Candidates not selected for this program will be considered for California
Conservation Corps opportunities along with other AmeriCorps opportunities
nationally. We will coordinate with those other organizations and sites.
Goals:
National AmeriCorps recruitment intake 20%
Gender 50% women and men
Majority Age group 18 through 25 (E/PL), with no upper age limit
30% recruitment will be from California State (CCC) and local corps
50% local recruitment special emphasis on:
Displaced timber worker (family members)
Native American tribes
Minority group affiliates
Education Levels:
30% college students, college graduates, or professional school graduates.
70% high school dropouts, high school graduates, vocation school students.
Recruitment Outreach Process:
May - July, 1995 - Recruitment outreach will be conducted using a variety of
different outreach alternatives and media. Personal contacts will be made with
a number of suggested organizational groups and councils. Applications will be
accepted during this time frame.
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Focus Groups
Private Industry Council (PIC) - North Coast and Humboldt County
Northern California Indian Development Council (NCIDC)
State of Ca. Employment Development Department (EDD)
California Conservation Corps (CCC) - Headquarters, local recruiters
state-wide and 800 telephone number system.
Local Indian Tribe Councils
AmeriCorps National Recruitment Pool
Local High Schools
Local College and University (Student Placement Office) & SE Groups
Community Based Organizations (non-profits)
Civic and business groups (Rotary/Kiwanis) etc.
Local government offices
Local legislative offices
Local women, and minority group organizations
Other community sources
Outreach Recruitment Methods
Broadcast Media - Development of short Public Service Announcement
Local Newspapers - AmeriCorps Article (s)
Distribution of AmeriCorps Posters, Flyers, and Brochures
Local presentations and guest lectures
Humboldt State University (Internet Electronic BB) posting
August 1, 1995 - Close application Process, review of applications, select 40
finalists.
August 3, 1995 - Begin interviewing finalists
August 18, 1995 - Selections are finalized.
7. Detailed Work Plan and Milestone Schedule
DETAILED WORKPLAN AND MILESTONE SCHEDULE
OBJECTIVE
TIME FRAME
Recruitment-Outreach to communities, media
May - Aug 1995
Procure supplies/equipment
July 1995
Partnership meetings
July 1995
Staff Selections and Training
August 1995
Interviews
August 1995
Selection of Members
August 15, 1995
Plan launch activities
August 1995
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Project Start-up
September 5, 1995
Finalize Fall Program of Work
September 18, 1995
Members Orientation, Training and Development
September 1995
Team Building
September 1995
Board of Director's Meeting (s)
Quarterly
Program Evaluation Report
December 15, 1995
Forest Management Team Field Trip/Review
January 20, 1996
Finalize Spring Program of Work
January 25, 1996
Start Spring Project Work
February 15, 1996
Project Completion
July 1996
Graduation
July 14, 1996
Program Evaluation
July 1996
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Sequoia National Forest
Field Proposal - FY 96 AMERICORPS
Project Title:
Kern River Community Ecology Program
Sequoia Forest AmeriCorps Project
Address Location:
Sequoia National Forest
Greenhorn Ranger District
15701 Highway 178
P.O. Box 6129
Bakersfield, California
Congressional District:
21st District
Other Congressional
Area Served:
20th District
Project Type:
Public Lands and Environmental Corps
Program Type:
Non-Residential
Project Start Date:
September 11, 1995
Completion Date:
August 2, 1996
Number of Full-time Members:
20
Number of Part-time Members:
0
Submitted by:
Patty Bates, Acting District Ranger
Greenhorn Ranger District
(805) 871-2223
FAX (805) 871-8231
DG Address: P.Bates: R05F13D54A
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OBJECTIVE STATEMENT
The Sequoia National Forest is located at the southernmost end of the Sierra
Nevada range of California between the Los Angeles Basin and San Francisco Bay
population centers. With a diverse biological environment, as well as annual
recreation visits of almost 10 million annually, the Forest will provide
opportunities for AmeriCorps Members to serve their country in national
service. The Kern River Community Ecology Program is centered on the Kern
River Watershed, and will protect and enhance this unique resource, which
includes nationally designated stretches of Wild and Scenic River, diverse
natural resources and management challenges. The objective of the program is
to provide learning opportunities integrated with service projects that
implement ecosystem management, restore watersheds, improve wildlife habitat,
and maintain and improve recreation facilities and trails. The work objectives
of the 20 member AmeriCorps crew are to:
Conserve, restore and sustain natural habitats within various ecosystems;
specifically within the Kern River watershed and adjacent areas of Sequoia
National Forest.
Improve recreational opportunities by maintaining, improving and
constructing recreation facilities including camp sites, day use picnic
grounds, river rafting access, trail heads and trails to benefit users of
the National Forest System;
Improve habitat for fish and wildlife. Complete habitat restoration and
protection projects to improve the viability of threatened, endangered and
sensitive species of plants and wildlife;
Improve forest health through timber stand improvement work, planting and
restoration;
Improve resource conditions by completing watershed improvement and
rehabilitation projects on the National Forest and assisting in disaster
recovery efforts when requested;
Provide environmental education opportunities and education to the public
that reside within and adjacent to the Forest;
Provide technical assistance as para-professionals assisting resource
technicians and professionals in data collection and document preparation
for compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act.
Program Components
Work to be done:
Enhance campgrounds, picnic areas and other developed recreation sites on the
Sequoia National Forest. Sand, replace parts and paint 120 picnic tables and
construct 20 tables. Move, rebuild and replace 65 campfire rings to meet
current standards for safer public use. Repair signs and improve rest room
facilities at 12 developed sites. Construct bulletin boards and signs at 12
sites. Provide graffiti removal, facility maintenance, litter pickup, tree
hazard removal, plant landscape materials, construct 2 miles of rail fence,
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35,
construct 15 rock masonry structures and install 60 parking barriers. Grade
and gravel sites and pathways for resource protection and accessibility for
people with disabilities at 8 recreation sites. Construct one river rafting
access area and improve rafting portage sites. Restore historical sites at
Oak Flat Lookout and Cedar Creek Rockhouse. Work will meet guidelines set by
District Recreation Officer and be completed by September 10, 1996.
Construct, reconstruct and maintain hiking, mountain bike, equestrian,
motorcycle, snowmobile and cross country skiing trails throughout the Forest,
meeting regional trail construction standards. Construction will occur
throughout the year and be performed in partnership with Backcountry Horsemen,
Kern Valley Hiking Club and local volunteers. Maintain 75 miles of trails
within the Forest, completing low elevation trail maintenance by July 1 and
high elevation by August 15. Maintenance would include the rehabilitation of
trail structures, including retread work, turn pikes, crib walls, erosion
control, improvement of 3 trail head facilities and informational boards and
signing. Maintain 60 miles of off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails within the
Forest, completing the work by September 1, 1996, meeting regional off-highway
vehicle trail guidelines, in partnership with OHV clubs and state Greensticker
funds.
Maintain and enhance the ecosystem for fish and wildlife resources, including
threatened, endangered and sensitive species throughout the Forest, following
guidelines set forth by the District Wildlife Biologist. Install 40 bird boxes
and 20 bat boxes in developed sites and snag-deficient trails. Install 20 bat
gates at abandoned mine sites. Install and maintain 15 guzzlers in areas
without water sources in wildlife habitat project areas. Develop 12 water
sources. Install 8 miles of fence and 20 barriers to protect known sensitive
species, including willow flycatchers. Complete 120 acres of species and
habitat surveys. Complete projects in a time frame that would be sensitive to
the needs of individual species, but no later than September 1, 1996.
Improve forest health by planting trees on post-fire wildlife and timber
harvest sites, as needed and appropriate, by July 1, 1996. Thin 300 acres and
release 400 acres to promote healthier trees by September 30, 1996.
Complete watershed restoration projects, including erosion control matting,
willow and grass seed planting and fertilization for protection of watershed on
35 acres of disturbed area. Guidelines would be developed by watershed
specialist and monitored for one year following completion. Provide for soil
erosion reduction by constructing road and trail closures to protect 20 areas,
filling in 8 headcut gullies, and constructing 26 barriers at strategic
locations to prevent unauthorized mechanical intrusion. Complete cleanup and
restoration of 35 abandoned mine sites. Build 6 instream watershed structures
to enhance fish habitat by July 31, 1996.
Complete interpretation programs. Provide information, education and
interpretation on the Forest, including leave-no-trace outdoor skills and
ethics and safety. Utilize the "Forest as a Classroom" to provide
environmental education to local elementary schools, targeting approximately
320 children in 15 classrooms by June 15, 1996. Follow nationally identified
training courses, including Hug-A-Tree, Project Learning Tree, Project Wild,
and Leave-No-Trace. Develop 6 bilingual interpretive publications. Assist on
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Generation of Fishing Festival, California Trail Days, and River Cleanup
Events.
Assist in data collection in support of resource projects. Complete monitoring
on 26 grazing allotment through collection of residual dry matter measurements
and monitoring of riparian areas. Survey 3 meadows and conduct spotted owl
surveys following regional protocols of 20 protected activity areas and 5
SOHAs.
Hoped for result of the activities:
The Sequoia AmeriCorps program will result in an integrated program of public
service conservation work and development of AmeriCorps Members. The program
will be highly visible and improve the quality of the recreational visit to the
Forest and resource conditions, while providing Members with skill development
and conservation ethics. The project will be completed in a timely and quality
manner and the work performed by the Members will assist the Forest Service in
implementing ecosystem management. The work will result in improved quality
and safety of recreational visitors' experiences on the Sequoia National
Forest, increased recreation opportunities and facilities, improved wildlife
habitat, restored watershed conditions and healthier forests.
The outcome for AmeriCorps Members will include development of collaborative
working skills, positive work attitude, enhanced communication and leadership
skills, a conservation ethic, a positive attitude, independent thinking skills,
technical skills, quality production and a sense of community service.
Additional, the activities will result in fostering good working relationships
and partnerships with the private sector, non-profit clubs and organization and
special interest groups through working together as teams to accomplish agreed
upon objectives.
Measuring the quality of these activities:
Quality of the work will be measured against established project standards.
Forest Service specialists will provide work standards and measurable project
completion performance expectations. AmeriCorps Members will monitor quality
of their experiences in their portfolios, which will include samples of work,
daily logs, assessments, improvement plans, and reflections that will be
reviewed at a post project review. The Sequoia AmeriCorps program will
regularly review all activities focusing on our mission and objectives, and
re-direct activities if necessary.
Standard to gage success:
The Sequoia AmeriCorps project will be measured by evaluating identified
program component targets, specific project work accomplishments and individual
AmeriCorps Member goals. The success of each project component will be gauged
on the basis of it being completed in a timely manner and meeting established
Agency quality standards. Customer satisfaction will also be considered,
communicating with users to assure satisfaction with the quality and quantity
of work.
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AmeriCorps Member experience will be of equal importance. Members will provide
feedback on the program and the experiences they have gained through individual
portfolios. Assessments, observations, logs and plans will be collected and
organized to evaluate performance in the areas of quality of work,
collaboration and team work, problem solving, effective communication and
leadership, and conservation ethics. Success indicators, such as satisfaction
and skill development and enhancement, will be assessed through interviews. We
will also complete follow-up monitoring through AmeriCorps Member outplacement
to colleges and other educational entities, work opportunities and interest in
continuing in conservation work.
Number of individuals to receive benefits of Members work:
The Sequoia National Forest is surrounded by 15 communities and serves over
700,000 local residents, as well as over 9.4 million visitors on an annual
basis, all of who will receive the benefit of AmeriCorps projects. The
enhancement and improvement of our recreational infrastructure, including
campgrounds, trails and historical sites, will provide a more enjoyable
experience for our forest visitors and encourage extended return trips to the
area, benefiting local communities. The environmental education program will
serve over 320 area school children and increase opportunities for local
schools to take part in outdoor environmental education experiences. The
bilingual interpretation program will provide informational and educational
brochures to non-traditional visitors to the Forest. Improved habitat for
wildlife will create greater opportunities for both sports enthusiasts (60,000
hunter days and 250,000 angler days) and wildlife observers. Fire
rehabilitation and watershed restoration work will improve forest conditions
and benefit both present and future residents. At the completion of the
Sequoia AmeriCorps project, the value and quality of the resources will be
improved, helping to meet the needs of customers today while providing for the
needs of future generations.
In addition, the Members will benefit by learning employment skills and
ecosystem management principals, providing public service to their community,
and developing a conservation ethic. Finally, when AmeriCorps Members return
to project sites with their families, they will have a sense of pride at their
ability to get things done during their service in AmeriCorps.
SUMMARY PAGE
Project Accomplishment: The Sequoia National Forest AmeriCorps project would
provide opportunities for AmeriCorps Members to complete national service
through training and service projects that improve the Kern River ecosystem.
The program incorporates community, opportunity and responsibilities through a
variety of programs and projects that involve partnerships.
Typical Work Week: AmeriCorps Members in the Sequoia Forest Program will spend
most of their time on service projects associated with the Kern River Ecology
Program. After initial orientation, training will be spread throughout the
service year. Most weeks will include 1/2 day of training on resource issues,
career training and on site project instruction. As a non-resident camp,
Members will meet at the AmeriCorps facility before heading out on service
project work. It is anticipated approximately 20% of the time will be spent
camped out on the work site, due to driving time. While most of the work will
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be spent on the southern end of the Forest, there will be work days on partners
service projects, working in one of the 5 wildernesses or 38 Giant Sequoia
groves on the forest.
Community Needs: The program fulfills the community needs of improving
recreational opportunity, protecting unique riparian dependant ecosystems, and
expanding bilingual programs. The maintenance and construction of recreation
facilities will serve diverse publics, the biological and physical resources of
the Kern River will be improved through watershed protection and habitat
improvement, and the community will be involved through partnerships. To
manage and protect the Kern River, AmeriCorps work projects with community
partners will include river cleanup events. Community involvement will be
incorporated through events, education, interpretation and training. An
important component of the program is assure outreach to the multicultural
public, including public information, river safety and hiring.
Recruitment: To meet our goal of recruiting a diverse group of members in
terms of race, education, ethnicity, socio-economics, gender and physical
ability, the Sequoia Forest will work closely with local schools, civic service
groups and media to complete the best outreach. By on-site presentation and
follow up, we can assure a diverse pool of applicants to select from. We will
also be holding workshops for applicants and providing communication
facilitation through interpreters, telecommunication devices and video/audio
tapes if needed.
Staffing Structure: The Sequoia Forest will host 20 AmeriCorps Members in a
non-resident program. At the Forest level, there will be a AmeriCorps Program
Manager to oversee the program and assure coordination at the leadership team
level and with other agencies, cooperators and partners. There will also be a
Project Coordinator to manage the coordination, direction and needs of the
program Members. AmeriCorps Members will work as 10-person crews, with a
Forest Service Crew Supervisor responsible for overall daily operations of
all. Each 10 person squad will be working with a crew leader to provide
training, safety standards and job site directions. In addition, Forest
Service recreation and resource specialists will assist in training and
technical project guidance for the Members.
Partners: The Sequoia Forest Project will involve a variety of private, state
and federal partners. We will work with Bureau of Land Management, National
Park Service and other National Forests in the area to provide a diversity in
project work. In the State arena, we are cooperating with California
Department of Fish and Game, California Department of Boating and Waterways and
California Off Highway Vehicle Commission, all of whom are funding specific
projects for ecosystem improvement projects. We will also be working with Kern
County Fire Department, Kern County Parks Department and Kern County Sheriff's
Department to complete cooperative projects. Private partners include many
special use permittees, organized volunteer groups and clubs and community
businesses that will assist on recreational and habitat projects.
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COLLABORATION
PARTNER
TYPE
CONTRIBUTION
Job Training Partnership Act
Federal
Funding for work crew and
leader (through Kern High
School District)
USDI, Bureau of Land Management
Federal
Funding for project work;
skill training; providing crew
vehicles for AmeriCorps
United States Marines Corps
Federal
Assistance on skilled project
work
6th Engineering Support Battalion
Los Padres National Forest
Federal
Funding for project work
California Off-Highway Commission
State
Funding for OHV work; partial
funding for crew leaders
Bakersfield College
State
Class room, forest nursery and
college credit for work
experience
California Dept of Transportation
State
Funding for road and habitat
work
California Dept of Fish and Game
State
Funding for habitat work and
interpretation project.
California Dept of Boating and
State
Funding for river access work
Waterways
Kern County Wildlife Commission
County
Funding for habitat and
interpretation work
Kern County Fire Department
County
Housing and office facility
for AmeriCorps program Members
Kern County Board of Trade
County
Support of interpretive work
Kern County Parks Department
County
Storage building for project
supplies
Arvin High School
County
Support for interpretive work
and bilingual translations
Bakersfield City School District
County
Support for classroom
environmental education
programs
Kern County Sheriff's Office
County
Assistance on facility and
cleanup work
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South Sierra Fat Tire Association
Non-profit
Assistance on trail work
Back Country Horsemen
Non-profit
Assistance on trail and
campground work
California Living Museum
Non-profit
Work projects, provide
training
Quail Unlimited
Non-profit
Donations for guzzler and
spring development work
Bat Conservation International
Non-profit
Assistance on bat gates and
bat boxes
Three Forest Interpretive Assoc
Non-profit
Funding for interpretive
projects
The Nature Conservancy
Non-profit
Supplies and trees for
riparian plantings
Kern Valley Historical Society
Non-profit
Assistance on historical site
work
Hooked on Fishing, International
Non-profit
Funding for fishing events
California Trails Foundation
Non-profit
Assistance on trails
celebrations
America Outdoors
Non-profit
Assistance and supplies on
river cleanup work
Western Mining Council
Non-profit
Assistance on mining inventory
and reclamation work
Kern Valley Hiking Club
Non-profit
Assistance on trails work
Friends of the River
Non-profit
Assistance on river work
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Non-profit
Support on projects, media
involvement and community
coordination
Outdoor Adventures
Private
Assistance on river work
White Water Voyages
Private
Assistance on river work
Kern River Tours
Private
Assistance on river work
Chuck Richards, Inc.
Private
Assistance on river work
Student Conservation Association
Private
Partial funding for project
crew leaders
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Southern California Edison
Private
Funding for recreation
facility work
Rocks and Ruts
Private
Assistance on road work
Delano 4x4
Private
Assistance on road work
Bakersfield 4WD Club
Private
Assistance on road and trail
work
Dirt Diggers
Private
Assistance on trail work
Dual Dogs
Private
Assistance on OHV trail work
Employee Training Resource
Private
Recruitment assistance
Private Industry Council
Private
Recruitment and project
community coordination
PIP Printing
Private
Free printing of recruitment
posters/brochures
California Land Management
Private
Funding and assistance on
campground maintenance
ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY
The Sequoia Forest has a long history of successful human resource programs and
project accomplishments. In FY '94, the Forest had 384 volunteers working on
forest projects, of the equivalent of 10 person years of service valued at
$180,000. Highlights of our expertise in human resource programs during the
past year include hosting 2 Youth Conservation Corps programs, Job Training
Partnership Act, Tulare County Department of Education, California Indian
Manpower Consortium, Tulare County Conservation Corps, California Department of
Corrections, California Conservation Corps, Kern County Department of
Corrections, Porterville Public High Schools, Community Service and Employment
Training, Sequoia Students, Striving Towards Achievement and Responsibility and
Student Conservation Association. The Forest also currently hosts 53 Senior
Community Service Employment Program enrollees for 59,678 hours yearly.
The Forest has experience working on service projects with a variety of school,
service and scout groups. Through school programs, career days and outreach,
hosting internships through the community college and developing cooperative
education positions, we have experience providing a positive and productive
work and learn environment. The program will be centered in Bakersfield, which
provides a full service community. We have developed community support, being
a leader in developing and implementing partnerships with agency, private and
individuals.
The Forest is committed to completing projects on the ground to benefit the
resource and public and has a good track record of completing planning
documents and projects in a timely and efficient manner. The Project would be
administered by the Greenhorn District. Currently we have staff skilled in
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working with diverse groups, implementing human resources programs and a
committee to getting the job done.
INNOVATION AND REPLICABILTY
The Sequoia National Forest AmeriCorps proposal is an expansion of existing
programs and partnerships that have been building within the Kern River
ecosystem over the past 5 years. It is a program that hits at the heart of the
Forest Service mission of serving people and caring for the land. The service
work would improve customer service by improving recreation sites, improving
habitat conditions, restoring degraded watershed conditions and improving
forest health. By concentrating the work along the Kern River watershed, the
work will promote the sustainability of this unique ecosystem, while providing
excellent public service. We will also be able to expand our partnership base
with the addition of this program.
It will be a program that meets the Forest Service reinvention goal of
improving customer service and building the public's trust through improved
efficiency and demonstrated competence. The AmeriCorps project will continue
to improve high-quality public service and natural resource management,
efficiency, and cost effectiveness through partnerships for the Kern River and
the Sequoia Forest.
The service work completed in forest health, habitat improvement and
recreational programs will provide a lasting contribution to the 9.4 million
visitors to the Sequoia National Forest. The work also will provide an avenue
to improve our partnerships with permittees, publics and cooperators, as well
as community involvement through the educational programs. The expansion and
increased involvement of our partners will make the program replicable. The
Members will receive a diverse training in both job skills and natural resource
education. There will be a change in the members through this training,
counseling, mentoring, and development in academic, occupational and social
skills.
The level of on the ground work that the AmeriCorps Members will provide could
not be provided with existing funds or volunteers. The proposal is innovative
in that is ties in the existing partnerships and interagency agreements to best
serve the public, improve our community relationships and assist the agencies
to work together to streamline and share resources.
RECRUITMENT PLAN
To obtain high quality and diverse group of applicants, recruitment outreach
will emphasize personal contacts made with a number of organizational groups
and media. Outreach of candidates will be conducted with the goal of achieving
the full diversity considerations of our area in terms of educational level,
ethnic background, socio-economic class, religion, gender, physical abilities
and age. Members will be selected for their desire to serve, diversity and
capability. The selection goal is to interview 80 applicants for the 20
positions.
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Demographic Goals:
Even mixture of male and female
Majority of Members at age 18 through 25,
but no upper age limit
Local outreach to hispanic youths from
migrant farm backgrounds and Kern River
Valley Native American tribes
30% college students, college graduates, or
professional school graduates
70% high school graduates, vocation school
students or needing GED
35% recruited from disadvantaged
socio-economic backgrounds
5% recruited through disability services
Statewide recruitment 25%
National Americorps recruitment intake 20%
Outreach Recruitment Methods
Meetings will be held with local schools (high schools, adult school, community
college and university). Recruitment will also focus on community civic groups
and community events, including Private Industry Council, California Employment
Development Department, local Native American Tribe Councils, AmeriCorps
National Recruitment Pool, non-profit community based organizations, civic and
business groups (Rotary, Kiwanis, etc.), local government offices, legislative
offices, women and minority group organizations and other community sources.
In order to assure that a diverse pool of applicants are available, a copy of
the recruitment press release will be sent to youth agencies, schools and key
community contacts. Brochures will be distributed and presentations will be
made to groups. We will also obtain the list of local residents interested in
the AmeriCorps program who have called into the USDA and the Corporation for
National and Community Service 800 telephone number.
Outreach will be made to local media sources as well. We will develop short
Public Service Announcement for the broadcast stations, AmeriCorps articles,
classified ads and news releases for local newspapers, distribute AmeriCorps
posters, flyers and brochures, and send news releases to the TV networks. Each
will also receive follow up contact.
Recruitment Timeline:
April 15, 1995: Finalize fact sheets on
AmeriCorps recruitment program. Develop
brochures and postures for effective
recruitment.
April 20, 1995: Mail recruitment packages,
including brochures and posters, to schools
and youth organization.
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May 1, 1995: Launch media campaign to
advertise recruitment. Send news releases,
public service announcements, posters,
flyers and brochures out.
May 10, 1995: Hold meetings with guidance
counselors, principals, clergy, college
department chairs, college and vocational
schools financial aid officers and college
student activity coordinators.
May 15, 1995: Complete presentations and
lectures, and distribute brochures at
schools and service organizations.
June 1, 1995: Place follow-up telephone
calls at recruitment locations.
August 1, 1995: Application period closes.
August 10, 1995: Hold workshop for
applicants for interviews.
August 15, 1995: Review applications and
begin selected interviews.
August 20, 1995: Send list of final
selections to national office for approval
August 25, 1995: Selections are finalized.
Recruitment Contact List:
KVLI Radio
KCNQ
Drawer T
P.O. Box 3434
Lake Isabella, CA 93240
Lake Isabella, CA 93240
News Director
News Director
Kern Valley Sun
KAFY Spanish Radio
P.O. Box 3074
230 Truxtun Ave.
Lake Isabella, CA 93240
Bakersfield, CA 93301-5312
(805) 324-4411
KGET-TV 17
KGEO AM & KGFM
2831 Eye St.
P.O. Box 260
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Bakersfield, CA
Ken Hunter
(805) 631-1230
(805) 327-7511
KHIS AM
County of Kern
521 "H" Street
P.O. Box 2700
Bakersfield, CA 93304
Bakersfield, CA 93308
(805) 327-0631
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KERO 23
KBAK 29, News Department
P.O. Box 2367
P.O. Box 2929
Bakersfield, A 93301
Bakersfield, CA 93303
(805) 325-9107
(805) 325-6397
News Director
News Director
KBCC FM
KCJH Spanish Radio
1801 Panorama Dr.
P.O. Box 1000
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Delano, CA 93216
(805) 395-4523
(805) 721-1010
News Director
News Director
KWAC Spanish Radio
KXEM Spanish Radio
5200 Standard Street
3701 Pegasus Dr. Suit #102
Bakersfield, CA 93308
Bakersfield, CA 93308-6842
(805) 725-1010
(805) 393-0103
News Director
Bakersfield Californian
Bakersfield Cal
P.O. Box 440
11529 Sycamore
Bakkersfield, CA 93302
Arvin, CA 9320
(805) 395-7481
Christy Cortez
Jim Carnal
The Roadrunner
Lamont Recorder
131 Pasatiempo Drive
P.O. Box 548
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Lamont, CA 93241
Attn: Editor
Shafter Press
Delano Record
P.O. Bin A
P.O. Box 938
Shafter, CA 93263
Delano, CA 93216-0938
News Editor
News Editor
South Bakersfield
News Observer
P.O. Box 427
P.O. Box 3624
Arvin, CA 93203
Bakersfield, CA 93301
News Editor
El Popular Spanish Newspaper
Bakersfield College
1206 California Ave.
1801 Panorama Dr.
Bakersfield, CA. 93304
Bakersfield, CA 93305
(805) 325-7725
(805) 395-4011
Delano Center
Weill Institute
1942 Randolph St.
2101 "K" Street
Delano, CA 93215
Bakersfield, CA 93301
(805) 725-8020
(805) 395-4140
Bakersfield Adult School
Cal State Bakersfield
501 S. Mount Vernon Ave.
9001 Stockdale Hwy.
Bakersfield, CA 93307
Bakersfield, CA 93311
(805) 835-1855
(805) 664-2011
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Kern High School District
Kern Valley High School
J T P A Services
P.O. Box 1027
501 S. Mount Vernon Ave.
Lake Isabella, CA 93240
Bakersfield, CA 93307
(610) 379-2611
(805) 835-1843
Summit High School
Garces High School
5105 Lake Isabella Boulevard
2800 Loma Linda Drive
Lake Isabella, CA 93240
Bakersfield, CA 93305
(619) 379-3997
(805) 327-2578
Project Impact
Junior Achievement of Bakersfield
1002 11th Ave.
5329 Office Center Court #227
Delano, CA 93215
Bakersfield, CA 93309
(805) 721-1854
(805) 328-9373
Sal Cruz
Debbie Guseman
Sherman Group Home
Teen Challenge
941 E. Brundage Lane
P.O. Box 1011
Bakersfield, CA 93307
Bakersfield, CA 93302
(805) 861-9441
(805) 399-2273
Ms. Dixon
Apostolic Assembly Spanish Church
Kern County Southern Baptist Association
8409 Panama Road
25 Garnsey Lane
Lamont, CA 93241
Bakersfield, CA 93309
(805) 845-3521
(805) 325-1265
National Farm Worker Ministry
Calvary Church
1324 1/2 Main
4850 Manor
Delano, CA 93215
Bakersfield, CA 93308
(805) 725-7445
(805) 327-5921
Laurel Glenn Bible Church
Olive Knolls Church of the Nazarene
2801 Ashe Road
6201 Fruitvale Ave.
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Bakersfield, CA 93308
(805) 833-2800
(805) 933-3303
First Missionary Baptist Church
Kern County Veterns Service Office
1421 Wilson Ave
2700 "M" Street, Suite 200
Oildale, CA 93308
Bakersfield, CA 93301
(805) 939-5141
(805) 861-2161
Ken Hosman
Employers' Training Resource
National Farm Workers Service Center
1120 Golden State Avenue
10907 Main
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Lamont, CA 93241
(805) 845-3721
State of California
Kiwanis Club of Oildale
Employment Development Department
Division 33
1401 South "H" Street
P.O. Box 5001
Bakersfield, CA 93304
Bakersfield, CA 93388
(805) 395-2500
(805) 399-1280
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Kern Valley Indian Council
American Indian Council of Central CA
112 Buena Vista Drive
2210 Chester Avenue, Suite A
Kernville, CA 93238
Bakersfield, CA 93301
(619) 376-3761
(805) 327-2207
Kern Valley Indian Council
Kern Valley Indian Council
5217 Blue Fountain Lane
Tribal Chairperson
Bakersfield, CA 93313
P.O. Box 168
June Walker-Price (Paiute)
Kernville, CA 93238
(619) 376-4240
Ron Wermuth (Tubatulabal)
Native American Heritage Council of Kern County
2619 Diller Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93306-2505
(805) 871-0609
Robert Gomez Jr. (Tubatulabal and Yokuts)
Harold Williams (Kawaiisu)
Tule River Tribal Council
813 Elm Street
P.O. Box 589
Tehachapi, CA 93561
Porterville, CA 93258
(805) 822-3383
(T.B.) (209) 781-4271
Fax (209) 781-4610
Duane Garfield Tribal Chairman
Jip Woudstra Tribal Administrator
Tule River Elder Council
Western Shoshone/Paiute Council
Rt. 7, Box 240
P.O. Box 1207
Porterville, CA 93258
Weldon, CA 93283
(209) 783-2254
David & Clyde Robinson
Isidore Garfield (Yokuts)
Lalo Franco (Wukchumni)
Andy Green (Kawaiisu)
1426 Sunview
713 Brentwood
Visalia, CA 93291
Tehachapi, CA 93561
(209) 739-0931
Yokuts for Community Action
Rt. 7, Box 235-A
Porterville, CA 93257
Leona Dabney
DETAILED WORKPLAN AND MILESTONE SCHEDULE
OBJECTIVE
DATE
Finalize Project Guidelines and Work Processes
July 11, 1995
Preliminary Fall Program of Work Selected
July 20, 1995
Secure Program Support Service and Supplies
August 11, 1995
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Staff Selections and Training
August 21, 1995
Selection of Members
August 25, 1995
Refine Program Publicity and Partnerships
September 4, 1995
Finalize Fall Program of Work
September 18, 1995
Project Startup
September 11, 1995
Register for College Work Internship Credit
September 18, 1995
Members Orientation, Training and Development
September 25, 1995
Start of Fall Project Work
October 10, 1995
Establish Forest Service Mentoring Program
October 15, 1995
Preliminary Program Evaluation
December 15, 1995
Forest Management Team Field Trip/Review
January 20, 1996
Finalize Spring Program of Work
January 25, 1996
Start Spring Project Work
February 15, 1996
Project Completion
August 2, 1996
Program Evaluation
August 10, 1996
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AmeriCorps 1996
Project Title:
Olympic National Forest
Fort Worden AmeriCorps Program
Address/Location:
Olympic National Forest
1835 Black Lake Blvd S.W.
Olympia, WA 98512-5623
Congressional District: 6th District, Congressman Norm Dicks
Additional Congressional District where work will be performed:
2nd District, Congressman Jack Metcalf
Project Location:
Rural
CNCS Priority Areas:
N/A
Project Start Date:
October 01, 1995
Number of Full Time Members:
35
Number of Part Time Members:
0
Name of Person Submitting Proposal:
Dave Johnson
Address: Olympic National Forest
Quilcene Ranger District
P.O. Box 280
Quilcene, WA 98376
Telephone:
(360) 765-2221
FAX:
(360) 765-2202
DG Address: D.Johnson:R06F09D02A
Prepared By:
/8/ David F. Johnson
David F. Johnson, AmeriCorps Program Director
Approved By:
/s/ Ronald R. Humphrey
Ronald R.Humphrey, Forest Supervisor
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2. OBJECTIVE STATEMENT
The Olympic National Forest program will be residential with 35 Members. The
Members will perform work on public lands to: conserve, restore, and sustain
natural habitats within various ecosystems; maintain, improve, and construct
recreational facilities including camp sites, trails, access points, and other
significant projects benefiting the users of public lands (National Forest,
National Park, city and county government public lands) ; improve habitat for
threatened, endangered and sensitive species; improve forest health and sustain
forest ecosystems through thinning, restoration, and planting; assist in
disaster relief and recovery efforts (when requested) in the areas of flood
control, forest firefighting, and earthquake events; provide environmental
education opportunities and education to the public that reside within the
Forest, as well as those who live adjacent to or outside the National Forest;
provide technical assistance as para-professionals assisting resource
technicians and professionals in data collection and document preparation for
compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act.
Components of Objective Statement -
A) What work will be done? What service will your members engage in?
* Construct/reconstruct and/or maintain hiking, mountain bike and motorcycle,
and cross country ski trails throughout the Forest, meeting Regional trail
construction standards. Construction to occur throughout the year. Trail
maintenance will be performed in partnership with local Backcountry Horse
clubs, Boy Scouts of America and local volunteers.
Construct/reconstruct 48 miles of new trail within the Olympic
National Forest.
Snyder Ridge
2.0 Miles
Church Creek
2.5 Miles
Dry Creek
3.0 Miles
Mt. Rose
1.5 Miles
Kugel Bike
3.0 Miles
Bogachiel Loop
2.0 Miles
Wynoochee Lake Shore
5.0 Miles
West Fork Humptulips
4.0 Miles
Duckabush River
5.0 Miles
Anderson Butte
2.0 Miles
Dungeness
2.0 Miles
Graywolf
2.7 Miles
Tunnel Creek
3.3 Miles
Home Lake
0.8 Miles
Tubal Cain
1.0 Miles
Heather Basin
3.2 Miles
Deer Ridge
3.5 Miles
Mt. Townsend
1.5 Miles
Construct 5 miles of new trail as per A-15, Olympic National Forest
Plan.
* Maintain approximately 197 miles of wilderness and non-wilderness hiking
trails within the forest. Fifty percent of the trail maintenance will be
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completed by July 4, and the remainder by August 15. The work will meet
Regional trail standards. Maintenance would include the rehabilitation of
trail structures including shelters, bridges, puncheon, turnpike, crib
walls, gabion, information boards and signing.
*
Rehabilitate campgrounds, picnic areas and other developed recreation sites
on the Olympic National Forest, meeting guidelines set by project
specialists for specific locations and completing the projects by July 1,
1996. The following (non-inclusive) locations are being planned:
Rehabilitate Coho Campground and day use area, Big Creek, Hamma Hamma,
Wynoochee Falls and Lena Lake Campgrounds on the Hood Canal Ranger
District.
Rehabilitate Klahowya and Klahanie Campgrounds and day use area on the
Soleduck Ranger District.
Rehabilitate East Crossing and Dungeness Forks Campgrounds on the
Quilcene Ranger District.
Maintain recreational facilities, Forest wide.
Repair picnic and campground tables.
Move and rebuild campfire rings.
Construct bulletin boards and signs.
*
Projects are being planned for restoration, maintenance and enhancement of
ecosystems for threatened, endangered and sensitive species throughout the
Olympic National Forest. Projects will include the construction and
installation of 200 bird and bat nest boxes and the construction and
installation of 20 habitat improvement structures in streams for endangered
salmon stocks. Projects will meet wildlife and fishery specialists
guidelines, and time frames that will be sensitive to the needs of
individual species. All projects are to be completed no later than
September 1, 1996, and are being planned at the following (non-inclusive)
locations;
Habitat surveys for marbled murrelets would be performed on all
districts.
Install bird boxes in snag-deficient areas.
Inspect and maintain bird and bat boxes.
*
Complete rehabilitation of impacted sites within the Olympic National
Forest wilderness areas. This will include re-vegetation of impacted
sites, elimination of social trails, and removal of fire rings. Projects
would meet the criteria established in An Action Plan for the Wilderness
Activity Review (February 1992) and the Wilderness Implementation
Schedules.
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Wonder Mountain
- 10 sites
Mildred Lakes
- 6 sites
Juipter Lakes
- 6 sites
Moonshine Flats
- 6 sites
Camp Windy
- 4 sites
Silver Lakes
- 4 sites
*
Watershed restoration projects such as placement of erosion control
matting, willow and grass seed planting and fertilization for protection of
municipal watersheds and salmon bearing streams on over two miles of stream
bed.
*
Community development projects are planned in cooperation with State of
Washington and local counties with the aim of reducing the potential for
listing of threatened salmon species. Eighty percent of the projects would
be completed in a time frame that would be sensitive to the needs of
individual species, but no later than September 1, 1996. Guidelines would
be developed with input from fishery specialists, (and monitored for one
year following completion).
Construct or improve 20 in-stream structures essential for restoring
critical salmon habitat.
B) What is the hoped for result of the activities described above?
We hope to improve the safety and quality of recreational visitors'
experiences while on the National Forest. Many existing facilities are
over 25 years old and AmeriCorps work to rehabilitate them will provide
much needed improvements for continued future use.
We want to change attitudes about the National Forest and public lands
through education and information. We expect to change, through hands on
experiences the value that youth place on the environment around them.
They will also learn of the impacts that millions of residents and visitors
have on public lands.
We hope to foster good working relationships and partnerships with the
private sector, non-profit clubs and organizations, and special interest
groups, by working with them to accomplish our objectives.
C) How will you measure the quality of these activities?
These activities will be measured against standards in the Olympic National
Forest Land and Resource Management Plan, handbooks and project work plans.
Line officers will be responsible for the quality of work and will hold
Members and third parties accountable as part of their performance
expectations. Project sponsors will have the responsibility to provide
clear, understandable instructions and guidance to team supervisors and
leaders. A pre-project meeting will occur during the project application
process, as well as a post-project review of work accomplished.
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Educational professionals and specialists will be invited to review all
educational material. The program will constantly review all activities,
focus on our mission and objectives, and re-direct our activities as
necessary.
D) By what standard will you gage success?
A number of areas will be focused on to measure success:
AmeriCorps Member experience will be measured. We intend to provide
open opportunities for Members to reflect upon the program and the
experiences they have gained. We intend to make full use of the
educational awards with 100 percent Member retention. We hope that
Members will continue to provide service, either through an additional
year in the program or through volunteer service.
Customer satisfaction will be considered. We will constantly
communicate with our customers to ensure we are meeting their goals.
Are we completing their projects in a timely manner? Are they pleased
with the quality and quantity of our work?
Our ability to leverage our AmeriCorps budget to work with other
funding sources will be a visible indication of support and success.
It will increase our flexibility to "get things done", while meeting
the goals of our diverse group of project sponsors.
A major success will be a program that will serve as a model for
public and community activity on public lands. The assurance this
will provide is that the program funding will be continued in the
future, and that our program will be stronger and larger as a result.
Support among the Forest Service community, with a feeling among our
peers that AmeriCorps really does "get things done" will measure
success.
E) How many individuals will receive the benefit of the work your members
perform?
In the short term hundreds of forest users, local communities, children and
young adults will benefit. In the long term thousands will benefit,
through the use of the recreational infrastructure, including campgrounds,
visitor centers, hiking trails, historical sites and more.
Additional benefits will be to the AmeriCorps members and staff who years
down the road, will return to project sites with their spouses and children
and have a sense of pride about their ability to "get thing done" during
their service in AmeriCorps.
3. Program Summary
The Olympic National Forest Fort Worden AmeriCorps program will be a
residential program with 35 full time Members. The program will provide
training and opportunities for members to develop and practice teamwork
conflict resolution, leadership and work skills, and develop a work ethic.
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This will be accomplished through a combination of classroom training and
on-the-job experience. Members will accomplish a broad range of forest
management related projects including trail construction and maintenance,
developed recreation site construction/reconstruction and maintenance,
restoration and enhancement of habitat for threatened, endangered and sensitive
species, wilderness rehabilitation, fish and wildlife habitat improvement and
watershed restoration.
These projects will be completed on the National Forest and City and County
public lands. The program will operate with Members working as crews and
individually on projects. Crews will spend much of the time in spike camps
away from the Fort Worden facility. A typical week might include a Monday
morning meeting, loading tools and equipment for work and traveling to a spike
camp. There, the Members would meet with the project sponsor who would explain
the background of the project, history, specifications, expectations, etc. The
crew would work on the project each day for eight to nine hours. The project
sponsor would periodically meet with the crew to check progress and help with
any concerns. The crew would return to Fort Worden on Friday afternoon for the
weekend. Optional recreational or cultural field trips will be available one
weekend each month.
The AmeriCorps project work will meet needs identified within the community.
Projects will be screened to assure that high priority needs will be met.
These projects will improve recreational facilities to meet ADA standards,
complete backlog trail maintenance and improve fish and wildlife habitat.
The Members will include 17 males and 18 females with diversity (cultural,
educational, and economic) among the members. Recruitment will be aimed at
meeting a goal of at least 40% culturally diverse Members.
The program will be managed through a third party agreement. The agreement
will require that the contractor provide at a minimum four crew leaders, a
project/recreation coordinator, and a supervisor. In addition the Forest
Service will provide a Program Director, project coordinator and part time
clerical help. Crews will include nine members plus the crew leader. An
assistant crew leader position will be identified from within the crew as well
as a safety officer, tool manager and vehicle manager. These positions will be
rotated among members for experience and training.
Sponsors include Jefferson County, Clallam County, both county governments
within the state. Olympic National Park, Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
and the Olympic National Forest are all federal agencies.
Jefferson County and Clallam County have both applied under President Clinton's
Economic Adjustment Act for Rural Community Assistance grants to fund
AmeriCorps crews under this proposal.
4. Collaboration
The 1995 Fort Worden AmeriCorps Camp was operated under a Financial Assistance
Agreement with Northwest Youth Corps (NYC), and the 1996 program will also be
operated by NYC. Northwest Youth Corps has operated residential youth camps
and programs for the past 11 years.
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EMTA (Emergency Medical Training Associates) provides First Aid and CPR
training at a greatly reduced cost. EMTA is a private company. Estimated
contribution: $500.
Jefferson and Clallam County each received $100,000 Forest Service Rural
Community Assistance grants to utilize AmeriCorps crews. This program may be
continued and expanded in FY 96. The Counties are local governments.
Estimated funding: $100,000.
U.S. Navy, Port Hadlock Detachment is interested in a partnership to accomplish
needed work at Indian Island. The U.S. Navy is a Federal Agency and could
contribute funding for program. Estimated funding: $40,000.
Port Townsend Marine Science Center will be a partner to provide education to
members. The Marine Science Center is a non profit organization. Estimated
contribution: $2,000.
U.S. Navy, Whidbey Island Naval Air Station has provided furniture and
appliances for the facility. Estimated value: $10,000.
Civilian Conservation Corps Alumni Association will provide training in
primitive tool care and use and CCC era construction methods. Estimated value:
$2000.
Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is located close enough to provide work
sites. A partnership may be arranged to utilize Fort Worden AmeriCorps crews
on both Forests in the future.
Olympic National Park is located immediately adjacent to the Olympic National
Forest and may be interested in an agreement to accomplish needed work in the
future.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's new Olympic Coast Marine
Sanctuary is adjacent to the Olympic Peninsula and may be interested in a
partnership to accomplish sanctuary and environmental clean up projects.
Jefferson County and Clallam County have applied, under President Clinton's
Economic Adjustment Act for Rural Community Assistance grants to fund
AmeriCorps crews to accomplish work. The amount of these grant requests total
$200,000. It is unknown at this time whether these grants will be approved. In
addition, a grant request for $50,000 has been submitted to the National Forest
Foundation for funding in 1996. If these grants were received the amount of
Forest Service funding requested in the budget would be reduced by the amount
of the grants.
5. Organizational Capacity
Olympic National Forest
The Forest Service Program Director for the the Fort Worden program will be
Dave Johnson of the Quilcene Ranger District. Dave is the District Staff
Assistant responsible for Human Resource Programs and Rural Community
Assistance. Dave has been employed by the Forest Service for 25 years and has
considerable experience working with young adults. Dave is the Program
Director for the 1995 AmeriCorps program and served as the Director for the
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1994 Youth Forest Camp, an 8 week program for youth-at-risk. Dave has good
organizational skills and understands the objectives of the Corporation and the
Forest Service. Program direction will be provided by Ben Kizer, Quilcene
District Ranger.
Forest Service project coordination will be provided by Scott Burgwin of the
Quilcene Ranger District. Scott has been employed by the Forest Service for
the past 5 years and is the Project Coordinator of the successful 1995
AmeriCorps program. Scott has experience in working with young adults in a
variety of projects. Scott successfully developed and implemented the Quilcene
Ranger Corps in 1993. This program is targeted at helping youth understand the
Forest Service and environmental issues through work projects. Under Scott's
supervision this group of volunteers has accomplished needed work on the
Forest. Scott has excellent organizational skills to successfully coordinate
projects.
In addition, each Forest Service project will have a Project Sponsor who will
be responsible for making sure that all National Environmental Policy Act
(NEPA) work is completed, that all supplies are purchased and on hand prior to
the project, and monitor the project. The Project Sponsor will meet with
members prior to beginning work to give an overview, background, explain job
specifications and discuss the time required for completion. The Project
Sponsor will monitor progress of the project and provide an evaluation once
work is completed.
Northwest Youth Corp (NYC)
The Olympic National Forest program will be operated by a third party agreement
with Northwest Youth Corps. NYC was created in 1983 to offer youth a
residential job training, employment, and education experience. Modeled after
the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930's, NYC programs integrate hard work
and education that promote confidence, self esteem, individual responsibility,
understanding of basic job skills, and an awareness of environmental issues.
Over the past 10 years, NYC has served over 1700 youth from all economic and
ethnic backgrounds. Since 1983, NYC participants have completed over 350,000
hours of resource management projects through out Oregon, Washington and
Idaho. In 1993, NYC crews worked on projects for 31 National Forest Districts
on 14 National Forests. NYC has a reputation throughout the Northwest for
providing hard working crews and top quality work.
NYC will recruit camp staff from both the immediate camp vicinity and
nationwide. NYC's success in recruiting, hiring, and training staff is
demonstrated by the program's exceptional safety record, a project completion
rate averaging 92 percent, a high percentage of referrals from previous
participants, and ongoing support from parents and project sponsors.
NYC Principle Staff:
Art Pope, NYC's Executive Director has been in charge of program operations
since the program was created in 1983. Since that time the NYC program has
grown into an organization operating six different programs and serving over
300 youth each summer. Prior to working with the development of the NYC
program, Art held a wide variety of positions in forestry, outdoor recreation,
and camp operations. He has worked as a logger, a tree planter, and foresters
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assistant. He was employed by the Forest Service as a Wilderness Ranger and
supervised a historic restoration project. He worked for Outward Bound as a
youth leader and spent four sessions as a Camp Director for Portland outdoor
school programs. He also was the Camp Director of a non-residential YCC camp
and two 40 person residential YCC camps.
Keith Brown is NYC's AmeriCorps Program Coordinator for the Rogue River and
Olympic National Forest programs. Keith has been with Northwest Youth Corps
for four years. Keith has extensive administrative/management background and
years of experience working with teenage youth. Initially employed as a
crewleader, Keith has worked with NYC in nearly every capacity and brings to
the AmeriCorps program a diversity of experience in resource management, youth
leadership, construction, training, and program management.
Tom Westrum, the Program Director has been employed by NYC since 1989. During
that time he has worked as Crew Leader, Project Coordinator, and has now
assumed the role of Program Director. Tom has a current secondary education
teaching certificate and has worked with youth in a variety of residential
settings. He worked with YMCA for two summers as a Recreation Director and as
a backpacking and canoe guide for two summers with an international scholarship
camp. Tom also has extensive experience in a wide variety of recreation,
conservation and reforestation projects and is currently working on the
development of an NYC staff manual detailing the process staff need to follow
to complete these projects.
Training:
NYC knows that the success of any youth corps program depends upon the
commitment and skills of the staff who work directly with youth. In order to
assure the most highly trained and skilled staff possible, NYC has developed
extensive staff training and curriculums, leadership handbooks, and operational
manuals. NYC will conduct an 8 day staff training program which focuses on
leadership, supervision, conflict resolution and youth leadership. This
training will also address a wide variety of safety issues including vehicle
safety, back road driving, project camp safety, fire safety, emergency
procedures, and the development of a safety analysis for each project.
Additional areas covered will include specific project skills (ie: chainsaw
certification), spike camp operations, paperwork requirements, Member
evaluations, motivational techniques, educational programs, recreational
activities, and AmeriCorps program guidelines.
Institutional Strengths:
NYC's 11 years of experience in operating residential youth programs is their
greatest institutional strength. Tried and proven methods of operation are
utilized to facilitate successful operation. NYC has developed staff manuals
that address all aspects of leading a youth crew: safety manuals, staff
training manuals, leadership manuals, job training and environmental education
curriculums and a camp cookery handbook.
6. Innovation and Replicability
The Olympic National Forest AmeriCorps resident program is modeled on a
combination of work activities and educational opportunities to maintain
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Members enthusiasm and commitment for the program. Projects are selected that
will challenge Members not only to "get things done" but to also learn skills
that will be helpful in their future. One of the sought after aspects of our
program is that each member is given the opportunity to work on individual or
small team projects directly with a Forest Service employee. The purpose of
the individual projects are to give Members experience to work in a field that
has specific interest to them. Many Members have college degrees or other
skills but lack experience in their field. Many of these are in areas where
the Forest Service is desperate for help. This is a great opportunity for the
Forest Service to get a project completed that is important to us while
providing experience to a Member who can then show "experience" on future job
applications. While working on individual projects members are under the
direct supervision of a Forest Service employee and covered by the Federal Tort
Claims Act.
Much of the Olympic National Forest is covered with snow during the winter
months and not accessible. Local communities surrounding the Forest are in
need of help to accomplish projects supportive of community development.
Through State and Private Forestry, grants for Rural Community Assistance under
President Clinton's Economic Adjustment Act, local counties were able to have
AmeriCorps crews accomplish a large number of projects. This provides
opportunities for work while National Forest lands are not accessible. This
has been extremely successful with other local county governments requesting
services of the Members for 1996. This also provides the opportunity for
members to observe management from another perspective and gain insight into
the operation of local communities. Our hope is that this insight, coupled
with the experience and training received from the Forest Service program, will
lead to life changing behaviors. For example, if Members work on projects
within the community to remove or repair vandalism, they should be less
inclined to participate in or tolerate this type of behavior from others.
Another part of this program that allows innovation is the fact that this
program is a residential program. This allows for weekly educational
opportunities to be offered to the Members in a wide variety of subjects.
Wednesday evenings are devoted to education with "guest" speakers. Speakers
are arranged for any subject that is of interest to the members. Topics in
1995 included: personal financing, AIDS and bloodborne pathogens, leadership,
forest management, wildlife biology, fisheries, outdoor survival, Leave No
Trace camping, and fire history of the Olympic Mountains. These educational
opportunities give members the chance to gain specific knowledge in a broad
range of subjects.
These items can be added into any program and can make each program run
smoothly and help develop a quality program with high enthusiasm among Members.
7. Detailed Recruitment Plan
Recruitment for participants in the AmeriCorps - Fort Worden Camp will be a
cooperative effort between the Olympic National Forest and Northwest Youth
Corps, contract camp operator. The Forest Service will take the lead role in
recruitment and selection of participants.
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In order to assure that a diverse pool of applicants are available, a copy of
the recruitment press release will be sent to the following agencies:
Youth Organizations: Recruitment packages, including brochures and posters will
be mailed by July 08, 1995. Follow up telephone calls will be placed during
the week of July 18-22, 1995.
I-WA-SIL Youth Program (United Indians) Seattle
Contact: Lola Romero
102 Prefontaine Pl.
Seattle, WA 98104
Jamestown S'Kallam Tribal Center
Lower Elwha Tribal Center
Contact: Danni Breen
Contact Mel Wheeler
033 Old Blyn Hwy.
2851 Lower Elwha Road
Sequim, WA 98328
Port Angeles, WA 98362
Phone: 360-681-4603
Phone: 360-322-1622
Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribal Center
Makah Tribal Center
Contact: Youth Services
Contact: Rose Tageant
31912 Little Boston Road NE
P.O. Box 115
Kingston WA 98346
Neah Bay, WA 98357
Phone: 360-297-2646
Phone: 360-645-2201 Ext: 449
Quinault Indian Tribal Center
Quileute Tribal Council
Contact: Dar Burgan
Contact: Ron Blace
P.O. Box 189
P.O. Box 279
Taholah, WA 98587
LaPush, WA 98350
Phone: 360-276-8211 Ext: 313
Phone: 360-374-6163
Skokomish Tribal Council
Squaxin Island Tribal Council
Contact: Nikki Burfind
Contact: Mark Snyder
N. 80 Tribal Center Road
SE 70 Squaxin Lane
Shelton, WA 98584
Shelton, WA 98584
Phone: 360-426-4232
Phone: 360-426-9781
Hoh Tribal Business Center
Asian Council Ref. Service
Contact Amy Benally
Contact Ben Kim
HC-80 Box 917
1032 S. Jackson, Suite 200
Forks, WA 98331
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: 360-374-6582
Phone: 206-720-5351
National Association of
Dave Broom
Service & Cons. Corps
Washington Service Corps
666 Eleventh Street NW,
P.O. Box 9046
Suite 500
Olympia, WA 98507-9046
Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 206-438-4009
Larry Pickard
Bill Basil
Quilcene School District
Employment Security Dept
PO Box 40
Washington Service Corps
Quilcene, WA 98376
Mailstop KG11
Phone: 360-765-3363
Olympia, WA 98504-5311
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Mrs. Marsha Harris
Volunteers for Outdoor Washington
Chimacum School District
ATTN: Sue Altengarten
PO Box 278
4516 University Way NE
Chimacum, WA 98325
Seattle, WA 98105-4511
Phone: 360-732-4481
Phone: 206-723-2988
Tacoma Urban Academy
Al Davies Boys and
ATTN: Lois Jones
Girls Club ATTN: Tony Ginn
2550 South Yakima
1620 South 17th Street
Tacoma, WA 98405
Tacoma, WA 98405
Phone: (206) 597-6435
Phone: 206-383-2731
Olympic Educational
Washinton Conservation Corps
Service District #114
Department of Ecology
ATTN: Frank Deevach
Mail Stop PV-11
105 National Avenue North
Olympia, WA 98504
Bremerton, WA 98312
Phone: 206-407-6000
Phone: 360-479-0993
Central Area Motivation
Superintendent
Program Camp
L.H. Bates Voc-Tech
ATTN: Fred Bloodson
701 South 37th
722 18th Ave.
Tacoma, WA 98408
Seattle, WA 98122
Phone: 206-596-1524
Phone: 206-329-4114
Safe Streets
Young Life
ATTN: Jess Moultrey
ATTN: Kevin Hunt
934 Broadway
7030 Tacoma Mall Blvd.
Tacoma, WA 98402
Tacoma, WA 98405
Phone: 206-272-6824
Phone: 206-473-0812
Peninsula College
Western Washington Univ.
ATTN: Kathy Murphy-Carey
ATTN: Pru Nathan
Peninsula College Campus
Peninsula College Campus
Port Angeles, WA 98362
Port Angeles, WA 98362
Phone: 360-452-9277
Phone: 360-452-9277
Seattle Urban League
Central Area Motivation
ATTN: Fred Ritsema
Program Camp
105 14th AVE.
ATTN: Gregory Davis
Seattle, WA 98122
1305 East Jefferson
Phone: 206-461-3792
Seattle, WA 98122
Phone: 206-726-9572
Central Area Youth Association
Cascadia Quest
ATTN: Tony Orange
ATTN: Dwight Wilson
119 23rd Ave.
4649 Sunnyside
Seattle, WA 98122
Seattle, WA 98103
Phone: 206-322-6640
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Youth Job Readiness Program Seattle
NAACP - Tacoma
Contact: Anita Wyman
Contact: Oscar Morris
119 23rd
P.O. Box 5223
Seattle, WA 98112
Tacoma, WA 98405
Phone: (206) 272-0357
Centro De La Rosa
NAACP Seattle
Hope For Youth Program
Contact: Carolyn Payne
Contact: Jason De La Rosa
19531 32nd Ave. NE
2524 16th Ave. South
Seattle, WA 98155
Seattle, WA 98144
Phone: 206-324-6600
Phone: 206-329-2974
Lakeside School
Hiltop Community Services
Contact Jenny Kelso
Contact: Larry Norman
14050 First Ave NE
2320 S.Wilkeson
Seattle, WA 98125
Tacoma, WA 98405
Phone 206-440-2740
Phone 206-386-1888 Work
206-272-8133 Home
Radio: Public Service Announcements will be sent to the following radio
stations by July 15, 1995.
KLSY/KIXI
KJR
ATTN: Alice Porter
ATTN: Nicole Bell
12011 NE 1st Street, Suite 206
190 Queen Anne Ave. N
Bellevue, WA 98005
Seattle, WA 98109
Phone: 206-454-1540
Phone: 206-285-2295
FAX: 206-455-8848
FAX: 206-286-2376
KJUN
KMPS
ATTN: PSA Director
ATTN: Brian Nelson
6310 16th E
113 Dexter N
Tacoma, WA 98424
Seattle, WA 98109
Phone: 206-874-0132
Phone: 206-443-9400
FAX: 206-922-2495
FAX: 206-448-4038
KNDD
KMTT
ATTN: Travis, PSA Director
ATTN: Dave, PSA Director
1100 Olive Way, Suite 1550
1100 Olive Way, Suite 1650
Seattle, WA 98101
Seattle, WA 98101
FAX: 206-292-1077
FAX: 206-233-8979
KRWM
KUBE
ATTN: Marlene, PSA Director
ATTN: Christy, PSA Director
1109 1st Ave
120 Lakeside Suite 310
Seattle, WA 98101
Seattle, WA 98122
Phone: 206-292-8600
Phone: 206-322-1622
FAX: 206-292-6964
FAX: 206-726-9393
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KVI/KPLZ
KBRO
ATTN: PSA Director
ATTN: PSA Director
200 Tower Building
P.O. Box 1490
Seventh and Olive
Bremerton, WA 98310
Seattle, WA 98101
Phone: 206-377-2325
Phone: 206-233-5700
FAX: 360-922-3348
FAX: 206-292-1015
KAPY
KONP
ATTN: Shirley, PSA Director
ATTN: Scooter Chapman
P.O. Box 1290
313 W 1st
Port Angeles, WA 98362
Port Angeles, WA 98362
Phone: 360-452-9228
Phone: 360-457-1450
FAX: 360-457-9114
KIRO
ATTN: Jean Allenbach
2807 3rd Ave
Seattle WA 98121
Network TV: News releases will be sent to the TV networks by July 15, 1995.
Follow up contact will be made by July 22, 1995.
KING 5
KIRO Channel 7
ATTN: Scott Miller
ATTN: John White
333 Dexter Ave. N
2807 Third Ave.
Seattle, WA 98109
Seattle, WA 98121
Phone: 206-448-5555
Phone: 206-728-7777
News FAX: 206-448-4525
News FAX: 206-441-4840
KOMO Channel 4
KSTW Channel 11
ATTN: Steve Konen
ATTN: Julie Furlong
100 4th Ave. N
P.O. Box 11411
Seattle, WA 98109
Tacoma, WA 98411
Phone: 206-443-4000
Phone: 206-572-5789
News FAX: 206 443-3422
Newspaper Advertisement: The following newspapers will be contacted to run a
classified ad or will be sent a news release about AmeriCorps and the Fort
Worden Camp:
Seattle Post Intelligencer
Tacoma News Tribune
ATTN: Kimberly Mills
ATTN: Sandy Dunham
P.O. Box 1909
P.O. Box 11000
Seattle, WA 98111
Tacoma, WA 98411
Phone: 206-448-8000
Phone: 206-597-8752
Bremerton Sun
Peninsula Daily News
ATTN: Jack Swanson
ATTN: Debby Ross
545 Fifth Street
P.O. Box 1330
Bremerton, WA 98310
Port Angeles, WA 98362
Phone: 360-377-3711
Phone: 360-452-2345
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Scanner Group (AA)
Port Townsend Leader
ATTN: Bobbie Dore'Foster
ATTN: Scott Wilson
P.O. Box 12770
226 Adams
Seattle, WA 98111
Port Townsend, WA 98368
The Daily World
Forks Forum-Peninsula Herald
P.O. Box 269
P.O. Box 300
Aberdeen, WA 98520
Forks, WA 98331
Phone: 360-532-4000
Phone: 360-374-2281
Seattle Media
Shelton-Mason Journal
ATTN: Juanita
P.O. Box 430
2600 S Jackson Street
Shelton, WA 98584
Seattle, WA 98144
Phone: 360-426-4412
Phone: 206-323-3070
El Hispanic News
The Sequim Gazette
Juan Prats
P.O. Box 1750
901 SE Oak St.
Sequim, WA 98382
Portland, OR 97214
Phone: 360-683-3311
Phone: 503-234-2194
Presentations: Brochures will be distributed and presentations will be made to
the following groups, by July 22, 1995:
Jefferson County Commissioners
Clallam County Commissioners
County Courthouse
County Courthouse
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Port Angeles, WA 98362
Contact: Glen Huntingford
Contact: Dave Cameron
Phone: 360-385-9100
Phone: 360-452-7836
Port Townsend Rotary Club
Quilcene Lions Club
Contact: Marcia Harris
Contact: Ben Kizer
Quilcene/Brinnon Chamber
Port Townsend Chamber of Commerece
Contact: Anne Ricker
Contact: Tim Caldwell
Port Townsend First Baptist
Port Townsend First Presbyterian
Contact: Gerald Ballien
Contact: Tim Dolan
I will obtain the list of local residents interested in the AmeriCorps program
who have called into the USDA and the Corporation for National and Public
Service 1-800 toll free telephone numbers by July 15, 1995.
Last day to receive applications will be August 01, 1995. Applications will be
reviewed and applicants selected for interviews. Selected applicants will be
interviewed by August 30, 1995. Approximately 80 applicants will be
interviewed.
8. Detailed Work plan and Milestone Schedule
Pre-Camp Activities and Planning
Notification of Tentative Grant Award to 3rd Party Contractor
Pending CNCS Approval
Apr 1
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Organizational meeting with 3rd Party Contractor
May 1
3rd Party Contractor site visit and inventory
May 1
3rd Party Contractor begin advertising Site Supervisor and
Project Coordinator positions
May 1
Begin soliciting project proposals and plans
June 5
3rd Party Contractor begin advertising staff positions
July 1
3rd Party Contractor begin interview/hire process for
Site Supervisor and Project Coordinator
July 11
Forest Service begin member recruitment
July 14
3rd Party Contractor begin staff interviews
Aug 2
3rd Party Contractor hire Site Supervisor and Project Coord.
Aug 11
Site Supervisor and Project Coordinator begin work
Aug 25
Forest Service and 3rd Party Contractor Select Members
Aug 31
Select projects for first quarter
Sept 1
On-Site Activities and Training
3rd Party Contractor Staff begin work
Sept 18
3rd Party Contractor staff training
Sept 18-22
3rd Party Contractor program staff travel to Camp
Sept 25
Camp preparations begin
Sept 25-29
Final Camp cleanup and preparations
Sept 30
Camp Operations
AmeriCorps Members arrive at Camp
Oct 1
Member and parent orientation
Oct 1
Member orientation
Oct 2-10
Members first work day
Oct 14
Camp Closed for Christmas Holiday
Dec 24-Jan 1
End first term of work
Feb 6
End second term of work
May 16
Last day of work
Aug 28
Final ceremonies, end of Camp
Aug 29
Completion of program evaluations and reports
Sept 15
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ROGUE RIVER AMERICORPS
Rogue River National Forest
Star Gulch Facility, Jacksonville, Oregon
Congressional District #2
Project Site: Rural
CNCS Priority Area: N/A
Start Date: October 1, 1995
Completion Date: September 1, 1996
35 Full-time AmeriCorps Members
Respectively Submitted By:
Mindy Martin, AmeriCorps Program Manager
Rogue River National Forest
Applegate Ranger District
6941 Upper Applegate Road
Jacksonville, OR 97530
(503) 899-1812 Office
(503) 858-2401 Fax
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2. OBJECTIVE STATEMENTS
A. What work will be done? What service will your members engage in?
Community Interface Activities
Protect City of Ashland municipal water supply from catastrophic fire by
reducing fuel and vegetation levels in urban interface areas adjacent to the
14,500 acre watershed. Brush and vegetation will be hand cut and piled for
burning outside of fire season. Work will be accomplished in cooperation with
the City of Ashland, under the supervision of the Fire Chief.
Rehabilitate and protect streambank and riparian areas on key streams in the
Applegate watershed. This project is endorsed by the Applegate Watershed
Council and will consist of planting conifers and willows to provide streambank
shading and stability on lands adjacent to the National Forest.
Restore vandalized recreational facilities originally constructed by the
Civilian Conservation Corps. Obliterate and block informal trails and roads,
install erosion control devices, and reconstruct 1.5 miles of trail on Roxy Ann
Peak. This project will be accomplished in connection with the City of Medford
Parks and Recreation Department.
Resource Management Projects on the Rogue River National Forest
RECREATION
Construct 4 miles of mountain bike trail on National Forest land adjacent to
the Ashland urban interface. This project has been developed in close
coordination with private landowners in the urban interface in an effort to
discourage use of "maverick" trails which contribute to erosion in the
watershed and often result in trespassing. Local landowners have pledged
$1,000 for construction materials for the project.
Restore Harlow Cabin historic structure for use as handicap accessible
recreational rental. Replace front porch and construct rustic furniture and
benches. Clear area around structure to improve accessibility and reduce fire
hazard. Construct accessible trail to nearby creek.
Build 15 recycling facilities for placement in campgrounds. This project will
institute a recycling program in recreational facilities Forest-wide.
Construct 200 yards of split rail fence to protect the Chinese Walls historic
mining site on the Applegate Ranger District. Construct interpretative area
trail and install interpretative sign posts.
Reconstruct and maintain 160 miles of wilderness and non-wilderness trails
Forest wide. High priority trails will be identified by District personnel.
Maintenance will be accomplished in cooperation with local off road vehicle,
equestrian, mountain bike, and recreational clubs.
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Renovate and enhance campgrounds, dispersed camping areas, and recreational
facilities Forest-wide. High use recreational areas will receive seasonal
maintenance and facility improvement.
WILDLIFE/FISHERIES:
Enhance habitat for big game species by hand cutting and piling brush on
several critical sites on the forest.
Enhance Bald Eagle habitat around Applegate Lake, by removing underbrush and
clearing areas around nest sites.
Restore streambank shadecover and wood complexity on several streams containing
critical anadromous fisheries on the Forest. Thin riparian areas to promote
conifer development.
Plant 2000 willows to enhance sport fisheries in Applegate Lake.
Assist District biologists with small mammal riparian habitat study in key
watersheds. Small mammals will be live trapped, identified, sexed, weighed, and
released over thirty day period.
Construct 100 bird boxes for installation at selected sites. Maintain fifty
existing bird boxes.
Construct several fish wiers in areas affected by timber harvesting.
WATERSHED IMPROVEMENT:
Construct several water bars and check dams to mitigate extreme hillside
erosion.
Plant native grasses and shrubs on 20 acres in the Beaver/Palmer watershed to
protect and retain soil.
Construct fire safe areas around 2 campgrounds in the Big Butte Watershed.
FOREST VEGETATION:
Improve future timber supply by pruning, fertilizing, mulching, scalping,
precommercial thinning, and protecting seedlings on 1,200 acres forest-wide.
Assist regional Forest Service Nursery with harvest and propagation of diverse
native plants, grasses, and conifers. Maintain nursery irrigation system.
FIRE:
Perform fuel reduction in post timber sale units by hand piling and burning
slash.
Assist Forest Service in emergency wildfire suppression activities when needed.
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B. What is the hoped for result of the activities described above?
The activities described above will achieve the following positive results.
First, they will engage communities in a program of wildlife habitat
enhancement, watershed improvement, and fire prevention in the public/private
land interface. Second, forest visitors will experience safer and improved
recreational facilities and trails, resulting in a greater number of visitors
to the local communities. Third, nmeriCorps Members will acquire and apply a
broad base of resource management, team, and leadership skills while performing
valuable community services. Last, this program will develop trust and
cooperation between land management agencies, residents and civic/community
organizations.
C. How will you measure the quality of the activities?
Service performed under Forest Service supervision will be evaluated by
guidelines set forth in the Rogue River National Forest Plan, handbooks and
project specifications. Additionally, quality will be measured long term,
through a program of monitoring and evaluation. Monitoring of the previous
years activities with recommendations for improvements will be incorporated
into the ongoing program of work. Feedback and critique will be solicited from
project sponsors, interest groups, community members, partners, and AmeriCorps
Members.
D. By what standards will you gage success?
Success will be indicated by community interest, support, and funding. The
ability to attract partners and projects will be a direct and measurable
indicator of success. Success will also be measured in terms of whether or not
our work produces the desired outcome. A returning salmon, a bald eagle
fledged from the nest, a safe family recreational experience, a backpackers
smile, will be more intangible measures of success. The degree to which we can
decrease fear of catastrophic fire in the communities will serve as an
indicator of success. More importantly, if our work in the interface reduces
loss of life, property, and the cost of suppressing fires when they occur, then
success will be measured in lives and dollars saved.
E. How many individuals will receive the benefit of the work your members
perform?
The Rogue River National Forest is surrounded by more than 25 small, timber
dependant communities, with the Medford/Ashland metroplex being the hub of
southern Oregon. The Rogue serves over 175,000 local residents as well as over
1.5 million visitors on an annual basis. The enhancement and improvement of
our recreation facilities will not only provide a more enjoyable experience for
our Forest visitors, but it will encourage extended stays and future trips to
the area. This will continue to benefit local communities by increasing
visitor traffic and enhancing the tourism trade. In addition, the timber stand
improvement activities will benefit the local timber related businesses as well
as the Forest Service by improving the value and quality of the resources.
The extensive environmental education program on this forest serves over 41,000
area school children. Local school districts will utilize the improved
facilities by continuing to provide a more diverse learning experience for
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students of all ages. The improved sites will also provide increased
opportunities for local schools to take part in outdoor environmental education
experiences, while encouraging repeat visits by area classes. The enhancement
of wildlife habitats will provide important learning experiences for forest
visitors.
3. PROGRAM SUMMARY
Rogue River AmeriCorps is a residential camp accommodating 35 full-time male
and female Members. The camp is located at the Star Gulch facility in the
Applegate Ranger District near Medford, Oregon. The primary purpose of the
program is to "get things done" by completing natural resource projects
improving forest and watershed health, and enhancing fish and wildlife
habitat. Daily work projects integrate safety, education, community service,
meaningful work experiences, with recreation and personal growth and
development woven into all facets of camp operations. Projects are located on
the Rogue River National Forest, as well as adjoining Federal, State and County
lands. In addition to important skills that Members gain during work projects,
a focus on education and team work is stressed. Intensive initial orientation
and weekly training sessions include topics such as First Aid/CPR, cultural
diversity, sexual harassment, conflict resolution, college skills/success
training, and ecology and forest health issues.
The 1996 Rogue River AmeriCorps program will not only focus on the importance
of forest health issues, but it will also place a heavy emphasis on watershed
health in the interface lands adjacent to Rogue River National Forest. Changes
in climate, ecology, population densities and demographics highlight a need to
address resource management issues crossing ownership boundaries. Many of the
proposed projects will address Forest priorities as well as the issues and
concerns of the communities we serve. Education will continue to be an
important component of the program. A partnership with Southern Oregon State
College provides the opportunity for Members to earn college credits during
their term of service, and Rogue Community College will provide GED training
and certification as needed.
AmeriCorps Members work in crews of 9 during most of their service. Each crew
has a supervisor who directs the daily activities. The individual project
leader educates the crew and provides specific instruction for the completion
of the project. Crews work 8 or 9 hour days during the week, returning to Star
Gulch each evening. As part of the educational component of the AmeriCorps
program, Members work with Forest Service specialists on an individual basis.
The projects are tailored to individual interest areas, and these sessions have
proven to be one of the most beneficial areas in the 1995 program. Crews often
"spike" camp in different areas of the forest. During the winter months, the
program utilizes empty barracks located on other Ranger Districts. The summer
months provide the opportunity for Members to camp out at the job site. The
ability for crews to "spike" out cuts down greatly on travel time, allowing
additional time for accomplishing projects. Educational time at specific
project sites is worked into each week as needed.
The daily operations of Rogue River AmeriCorps is managed through a third party
agreement with the Northwest Youth Corps (NYC). Through the required
competitive process, NYC has been selected to operate the 1996 program. NYC is
responsible for providing all on-site supervision, crew bosses, meals, and
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daily project management. The Forest Service provides a Program Manager, and a
Project Manager who serves as liaison between the Forest Service project
sponsors and the crew bosses. The Forest Service selects all projects to be
completed according to the priorities outlined in the Rogue River National
Forest Plan, the President's Forest Plan and local community Action Plans.
Applicants for the 1996 program will be interviewed and selected by the Forest
Service. Northwest Youth Corps will assist in the interview process.
Applicants will be recruited nation-wide, with an emphasis on selecting Members
that will mirror the population of southern Oregon.
4. COLLABORATION
Partnerships that have been established during the 1995 AmeriCorps program have
proven to be an integral part of a successful program. Local agencies and
community organizations have provided funding, educational opportunities, and
positive feedback to the program. These partnerships will continue to be
strong in 1996. New partnerships and the local community interest in
AmeriCorps has opened further opportunities to diversify the goals and
objectives of the 1996 AmeriCorps program. Additional partners would allow
Members to provide service outside of National Forest lands, fostering more
community service objectives. The following list describes current partners
and possible future partnerships.
ROGUE RIVER NATIONAL FOREST has made the AmeriCorps program a top priority,
expending considerable time and money updating and expanding the Star Gulch
facility accommodating the current and future programs. To date, the
Forest has obligated over $200,000 in materials, contracts, supplies and
personnel for the facility.
NORTHWEST YOUTH CORPS has been selected as the non-profit organization that
will manage the daily operations of the program. The partnership with NYC
has proven to be the most efficient and cost-effective method of managing
the 1995 AmeriCorps program. The goals and objectives of NYC are very
similar to those of AmeriCorps, and the partnership continues to be
mutually beneficial.
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT will become an "official" partner in the 1996
program. The BLM has been a strong supporter of the 1995 program,
providing several successful projects this year. The Medford BLM plans to
contribute $50,000 to the 1996 program for project work focusing on
watershed restoration projects and fire recovery projects on land adjacent
to private and National Forest lands.
The CITY OF ASHLAND desires to be an integral part of the 1996 AmeriCorps
program. The Forest Service is currently developing a partnership with
Ashland to accomplish critical fuel reduction work in the interface areas
of the Ashland watershed. City officials hope to contribute over $30,000
to fund the work of AmeriCorps crews.
The APPLEGATE WATERSHED COUNCIL will provide additional funding for
streambank rehabilitation and riparian area protection in the Applegate
Watershed. Estimated funding: $8000.
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OREGON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE has provided several projects for
AmeriCorps in 1995. The Hull Mountain fire recovery project proved to be a
high visibility project providing immediate results for all Members. ODF&W
has expressed interest in continuing to work with the AmeriCorps program.
THE JOB COUNCIL of Jackson and Josephine counties has expressed an interest
in partnering with AmeriCorps in 1996. Depending on available funding, the
Council would like to contribute $50,000 to help provide employment
opportunities for local young people.
SOUTHERN OREGON STATE COLLEGE will provide college level coursenwork to all
AmeriCorps Members. The classes to be negotiated include College
Skills/Success and Southern Oregon Ecology delivered at the Star Gulch
facility at a GREATLY reduced rate. Members would also be permitted to
take credit classes of their choice on their own time at reduced rates.
ROGUE COMMUNITY COLLEGE is currently providing the mandatory GED
certification at a reduced rate.
CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK has expressed an interest in the work of the
AmeriCorps crews. Projects include fire hazard reductions in the Park, and
possible interpretation and environmental education opportunities for the
AmeriCorps Members.
Projects in the COMMUNITIES OF BUTTE FALLS and PROSPECT are continuing to
be an extremely successful aspect of the program. Community Assistance
grants have allowed crews to perform badly needed improvements to many of
the facilities in both communities. Community support and in-kind
contributions have been enormous, and most of the timber-dependent
communities have/applied for additional funding next year.
OREGON STATE PARKS continues to support the program and is requesting
additional 1996 funding for AmeriCorps crews.
5. ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY
The Rogue River National Forest has placed the Rogue River AmeriCorps as a top
priority, and fully supports the goals and objectives of the AmeriCorps
program. The Rogue hired a full-time AmeriCorps Program Manager to administer
the program. Mindy Martin was selected for the position and has been directing
the 1995 program on the Applegate Ranger District. Mindy has a degree in
Education and an extensive background in youth education and program
management. Her background in grants, agreements and public involvement has
allowed her to integrate local agencies and communities into the AmeriCorps
program. She is currently administering a highly successful program and has
received positive feedback on the accomplishments of AmeriCorps Members by the
local media and community members.
The Rogue also identified a need for a full-time Project Manager to coordinate
the projects and educational component of the program. Bill Fleeger is serving
as liaison between the project leaders and the AmeriCorps crews, Northwest
Youth Corps and other agency personnel. Bill has excellent planning and
organizational skills, and a desire to complete projects in an efficient and
productive manner. He works well with outside agency personnel and
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communicates expectations and results effectively. Bill has a personal goal of
providing a comprehensive education program for all Members that will have a
lasting impact in future years. Bill and Mindy are committed to making the
1996 AmeriCorps program a success by providing quality projects and educational
opportunities for all Members.
The Northwest Youth Corps has a long history of successful Youth Forest
Programs. Over the past 10 years, NYC has served over 1700 youth from all
economic and ethnic backgrounds. Since 1983, NYC participants have completed
over 350,000 hours of resource management projects throughout Oregon,
Washington and Idaho. In 1993, NYC crews worked on projects for 31 ranger
districts on 14 National Forests. NYC has a reputation throughout the
Northwest for providing hard working crews and top quality work.
NYC will recruit camp staff for the following positions:
Site Supervisor: responsible for all camp activities and record-keeping.
Project Coordinator: organizes crews for daily work projects. Safety
inspector.
Crew Bosses (4) Direct responsibility for crew supervision.
Relief Crew Boss: Relieves crew bosses, additional project support.
Camp Cook: Prepares all meals, stocks kitchen facilities.
NYC will recruit from both the immediate vicinity and nationwide. NYC's success
in recruiting, hiring, and training of their staff is demonstrated by the
program's exceptional safety record, a project completion rate averaging 92%,
the high percentage of referrals from previous participants, and support from
local communities and government agencies.
NYC knows that the success of any youth corps program depends upon the
commitment and skills of the staff who work directly with youth. In order to
assure the most highly trained and skilled staff possible, NYC has developed
extensive staff training and curriculums, leadership handbooks, and operational
manuals. NYC will conduct an 8 day staff training program which focuses on
leadership, supervision, conflict resolution and youth leadership. This
training will also address a wide variety of safety issues including vehicle
safety, back road driving, project camp safety, fire safety, emergency
procedures, and the development of a safety analysis for each project.
Additional areas covered will include specific project skills (ie: chainsaw
certification), spike camp operations, paperwork requirements, Member
evaluations, motivational techniques, educational programs, recreational
activities, and AmeriCorps program guidelines.
Art Pope, NYC's Executive Director has been in charge of program operations
since the program was created in 1983. Since that time the NYC program has
grown into an organization operating six different programs and serving over
300 youth each summer. Prior to working with the development of the NYC
program, Art held a wide variety of positions in forestry, outdoor recreation,
and camp operations. He has worked as a logger, a tree planter, and foresters
assistant. He was employed by the Forest Service as a Wilderness Ranger and
supervised a historic restoration project. He worked for Outward Bound as a
youth leader and spent four sessions as a Camp Director for Portland outdoor
school programs. He also was the Camp Director of a non-residential YCC camp
and two 40 person residential YCC camps.
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Keith Brown is NYC's AmeriCorps Program Coordinator for the Rogue River and
Olympic National Forest programs. Keith has been with Northwest Youth Corps
for four years. Keith has extensive administrative/management background and
years of experience working with teenage youth. Initially employed as a
crewleader, Keith has worked with NYC in nearly every capacity and brings to
the AmeriCorps program a diversity of experience in resource management, youth
leadership, construction, training, and program management.
Tom Westrum, the Program Director has been employed by NYC since 1989. During
that time he has worked as Crew leader, Project Coordinator, and has now
assumed the role of Program Director. Tom has a current secondary education
teaching certificate and has worked with youth in a variety of residential
settings. He worked with YMCA for two summers as a Recreation Director and as
a backpacking and canoe guide for two summers with an international scholarship
camp. Tom also has extensive experience in a wide variety of recreation,
conservation and reforestation projects and is currently working on the
development of an NYC staff manual detailing the process staff need to follow
to complete these projects.
NYC's 12 years of experience in operating residential youth programs is their
greatest strength. Tried and proven methods of operation are utilized to
facilitate successful operations of the programs. The partnership with NYC is
and will continue to be a strong and successful part of the Rogue River
AmeriCorps program.
6. INNOVATION AND REPLICABILITY
Innovation in the Rogue River AmeriCorps program is a response to the changing
character of the rural communities in southwest Oregon. Changes in climate,
ecology, population densities and demographics have highlighted a need to
address resource management issues crossing ownership boundaries.
"The "interface" has become an important sociological concept for those
involved in forestry, indicating not only those geographical locations
where we find conflicting uses of adjacent lands, but also the area in
which differing social perceptions of the value of our forest resources
clash..." (Sturtevant, 1989).
Interface issues are exacerbated by the threat of wildfire. Population
increases, coupled with decades of fire suppression and drought, have set the
stage for catastrophic fires, such as Hull Mountain, which drastically alter
the landscapes surrounding our rural communities.
A primary innovation of the Rogue River AmeriCorps program is to engage
communities in a program of wildlife habitat enhancement, watershed
improvement, and wildfire prevention in the public/private land interface. To
accomplish this goal, AmeriCorps Members will participate in a program
integrating academic and resource management course work with service in a
variety of Forest Service skill areas including silviculture, recreation,
wildlife, range and fisheries. Members will acquire a comprehensive
understanding of the unique ecological and social interactions occurring in
interface areas, and perform service addressing interface issues.
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The portion of the Members' service time spent in interface service will be
funded through partnerships with the BLM, local Watershed Councils, civic
organizations, City, County, and State agencies, other non-profit
organizations, and private donations. This program of work, education and
training would be supplemented by academic course work offered by Southern
Oregon State College. Classes would meet every other Friday throughout the
program. Participation would be voluntary and on the Members own time.
The Rogue River AmeriCorps program is a unique and valuable tool positively
addressing community and interface issues. AmeriCorps members acquire a broad
base of academic, resource management, and teamwork skills while performing
service as AmeriCorps work crews. This program combines the goals of the
AmeriCorps program and the Rogue River National Forest, while providing direct
benefits to the communities and the land. Initial responses to our program
indicate a willingness to fund the AmeriCorps to address land use, water and
wildlife issues crossing public and private land boundaries.
7. DETAILED RECRUITMENT PLAN
Rogue River AmeriCorps will recruit and select Members that mirror the
population of southern Oregon. The program will seek people with a diverse mix
of educational levels, incomes and ethnic identification. It is the intent to
recruit a gender equal population.
By May 1: Complete local recruitment brochure describing the activities of
Rogue River AmeriCorps. Organize complete recruitment packet.
April/May: Make formal presentations to all local high school Seniors outlining
the Rogue River AmeriCorps program. Current Members will assist with
recruitment in local schools.
By June 15: Distribute complete recruitment packages to employment agencies,
Job Council, county commissioner offices, Chamber's of Commerce, and other
important information sites.
By July 1: Meet with Forest Special Emphasis Program Management (SEPM) staff to
ensure outreach to local African and Asian Americans, Native Americans,
Hispanic, women's and disabled populations.
By July 15: Distribute recruitment packages to all local and regional youth,
and SEPM contacts.
By July 15: Send press release and Public Service Announcements to to all area
media outlets, including minority newspapers and radio stations. Follow-up with
phone calls to each.
By July 30: Meet with financial aid counselors at local colleges, community
service coordinators and the Oregon State Employment Office, including
African-American, Hispanic, and Native American organizations.
By July 30: Prepare and run classified ad in all local newspapers.
By August 1: Obtain applications of individuals interested in the program who
have called into the national 800 telephone line.
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August 4 : Last day to receive applications.
August 7: Select finalists for interviews.
August 8-18: Interview finalists.
August 21-23: Open House at Star Gulch facility. Encourage all local
applicants to attend orientation meeting. Provide important program
information. Provide transportation to work site to allow finalists to
meet/work/talk with current Members.
August 23: Selections are finalized. Notify new Members and as many of those
not selected as possible.
By August 25: Mail information packets to all new Members.
October 2: First day of 1996 AmeriCorps program.
8. DETAILED WORK PLAN and MILESTONE SCHEDULE
PLANNING
Notification of tentitive grant award to third-party
contractor pending CNCS approval
April 1
Organizational meeting with 3rd party
May 15
Contractor site visit and inventory
May 15
Contractor begin advertising Site Supervisor
Hand Project Coordinator positions
May 1
Contractor begin advertising staff positions
July 1
Contractor begin interview/hire process for
MSite Supervisor and Project Coordinator
July 11
Forest Service begin member recruitment
July 14
Contractor begin staff interviews
Aug 2
Contractor hire Site Supervisor and Project Coord.
Aug 11
Site Supervisor and Project Coordinator begin work
Aug 25
Forest Service and Contractor Select Members
Aug 31
Select projects for first quarter
Sept 1
ON-SITE ACTIVITIES AND TRAINING
Contractor Staff begin work
Sept 18
Contractor Staff training
Sept 18-22
Contractor program Staff travel to Camp
Sept 25
Camp preparations begin
Sept 25-29
Final Camp cleanup and preparations
Sept 30
CAMP OPERATIONS
AmeriCorps Members arrive at Camp
Oct 1
Member and parent orientation
Oct 1
Member orientation
Oct 2-10
Members first work day
Oct 14
Camp closed for Christmas Holiday
Dec 24-Jan 1
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End first term of work
Feb 6
End second term of work
May 16
Last day of work
Aug 28
Final ceremonies, end of Camp
Aug 29
Completion of program evaluations and reports
Sept 15
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AMERICORPS 1996
Project Title: TWO MOUNTAIN AMERICORPS
Pacific Northwest Region Six, USFS, USDA
Facilities location:
Columbia Gorge Ranger District (Metro, Non-residential Site)
Mt Hood National Forest
31520 SE Woodard Road
Troutdale, Oregon 97019
Congressional District: State of Oregon, Third District: Ron Wyden
Mt. Adams Ranger District (Mt. Adams Site, Residential Site)
Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Trout Lake, Washington 98650
Congressional District: State of Washington, Fourth District:Linda Smith
Additional Congressional Districts where work will be performed
State of Oregon:
First District: Elizabeth Furst
Second District: Wes Cooley
State of Washington: Fifth District: George Nethercut
CNCS Priority Area: Empowerment areas and Enterprise Communities areas include
the urban metropolitan Portland, Oregon area which will be an emphasis area for
recruitment as well as a community in which projects occur, and the rural lower
Yakima County, also an emphasis area for recruitment.
In addition, areas of high poverty are targeted in Klickitat and Skamania
Counties in the state of Washington where unemployment rates are very high due
to a transition from a timber dependent based economy to tourism based.
Klickitat County, home of the Mt. Adams Residential Site, has the highest
unemployment rate and lowest per capita income in the Pacific Northwest.
Project area includes:
- the Mt. Hood and Gifford Pinchot National Forests, the Columbia River Gorge
National Scenic Area,
- the metropolitan Portland-Vancouver area,
- rural Klickitat County as well as other timber dependent communities in
both Oregon and Washington that surround the Mt Hood and Gifford Pinchot
National Forests and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
Start Date: September 5, 1995
Completion Date: August 9, 1996
110 Full-time AmeriCorps Members
Submitted By:
Wendy Evans, Human Resource Program Manager, Mt. Hood National Forest
Evans: R06F06D09A
Mt Hood National Forest
Zigzag Ranger District
70220 E Highway 26
Rhododendron, Oregon 97049
(503) 622-3191 X 613 (Office)
(503) 622-5622 (Fax)
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2. OBJECTIVE STATEMENT.
The Two Mountain AmeriCorps Program is intended to accomplish work on Forest
Service lands managed by the Mt. Hood and Gifford Pinchot National Forests as
well as the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
In a competitive Requests For Proposals (RFP) administered by the Pacific
Northwest Regional Office of the USFS, the Northwest Service Academy (NWSA),
operated by Education Service District 112 of Vancouver, Washington was
selected as the operator of the Two Mountain AmeriCorps Program.
The NWSA, will complete it's first year of service July 1995 and was initially
funded by the Commission of National and Community Service (CNCS) from 1993-95
under subtitle D.
The NWSA is currently providing a quality experience for its 90 fulltime
AmeriCorps Members "learning civic responsibility by providing service to the
community and the environment" both on and off National Forest lands. Sixty of
its Members operate out of the Columbia Gorge Ranger District (Metro)
non-residential site, while 30 are in a residential program at Mt. Adams.
The NWSA intends to use this requested Forest Service funding, along with both
their cash and in kind contribution, in combination with a direct grant they
are submitting directly to the CNCS, to fund an AmeriCorps program that will
accomplish work both on and off the Forests and support 110 fulltime Members.
The Forest Service funding will allow the NWSA to continue to operate the Mt
Adams residential site and expand the number of Members served by the existing
program. Without the Forest Service funds, the number of Members served will
be reduced and the residential site will be closed which would not serve the
diverse rural Members and the communities.
The Mt. Hood, Gifford Pinchot and Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
have an immeasurable amount of unfunded priority work to be accomplished on
National Forest lands.
These three units are not able to fund this work by Forest Service work crews
or contracts and are unable to utilize individual volunteers to get the work
done, due to the remoteness of the work, the technical knowledge needed and the
need to provide detailed supervision. All three Forest Service units have
projects ready to submit for accomplishment by Two Mountain AmeriCorps, and
once the funding is finalized a priority process will occur to select specific
projects. This project identification process will also allow us to take
advantage of completed watershed analysis on priority watersheds.
Projects off-Forest will be selected by a process which evaluates the need of
project against the NWSA objectives.
What work will be done?
NWSA service projects aim at GETTING THINGS DONE both in the natural and
community environment by focusing on providing community service, community
building, and member development.
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The objectives of the NWSA are to
restore Columbia River watershed habitat
strengthen the rural and urban communities surrounding its National Forest
land base
conserve and restore local ecosystems
Sustainable communities will be promoted by reducing environmental risks and
conserving natural resources. The NWSA will continue STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES
with its involvement in both urban and rural communities that surround the
National Forests served.
A process for scheduling priority projects will be implemented within one month
of the final grant approval, according to the AmeriCorps community and natural
resource objectives. Approximately 40 person years (over 72,000 hours) of work
will be accomplished on National Forest lands with the following mix:
40% Recreation (including non-wilderness trail maintenance)
10% Trail Construction
10% Anadramous Fish
10% Wildlife
10% KV Reforestation
10% Reforestation Vegetation Management
5% Threatened, Endangered & Sensitive Species Habitat Management
5% Wilderness (including wilderness trail maintenance)
Projects on National Forest lands will include:
*
identifying hazard trees in campgrounds that are weakened by disease or
insects,
*
supplementing interpretative services and visitor education efforts at
heavy use recreation sites
*
reconstruction of trails in areas with resource damage
*
restoring fish and wildlife habitat, with a special emphasis on riparian
areas where visitor impacts have caused deterioration
*
planting trees in "frost pocketed" areas where reforestation efforts have
been challenging
*
pruning and stand enhancement as well as removal of competitive vegetation
*
revegetating impacted areas of the wilderness, implementing projects
identified in the wilderness implementation schedule.
*
surveys for threatened, endangered and sensitive species.
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Projects in the communities will include:
work in a blighted area of Portland where members will be involved in
* developing community gardens which will provide food and eliminate
trashed sacrifice areas supporting drug activities
* lead abatement
* Habitat for Humanity projects
In both urban and rural communities, shelters for domestic violence will be
developed or improved, environmental education messages will be brought
into the schools, and riparian areas will be cleaned up and rehabilitated.
Work projects will be developed in "strands" where AmeriCorps Members are
organized into teams that rotate through a variety of project activities
designed to encourage their growth and development.
EXPANDED OPPORTUNITIES late in the service year could include strands where
individuals or miniteams of AmeriCorps Members participate in short termed
individual placements that support their service learning objectives. Forest
Service managers and technicians would act as mentors for highly motivated
individuals to gain specialized training and invaluable work experience that
link members to life long educational priorities.
What is hoped for the result of the activities described above?
The mission of the NW Service Academy is to "learn civic responsibility by
providing service to the community and the environment." The NWSA is committed
to educating the leadership of the next generation while GETTING THINGS DONE,
meeting the critical environmental AND community needs.
In addition, COMMUNITIES WILL BE STRENGTHENED, rural and urban neighborhoods
are being revitalized by NWSA teams, as they build community schools and
rehabilitate shelters for battered women.
The quality and safety of recreational opportunities for millions of
recreationists visiting these three Forest Service units should increase with
the accomplishment of backlog recreation projects.
Youth in both urban and rural schools that are exposed to environmental
education programs such as Cascade Streamwatch and a Salmon Life Cycle game
developed by last year's members and in place at the Portland, Oregon
Washington Park Metro Zoo will result in a more environmentally aware future
population.
How will the quality of these activities be measured?
The quality of the activities will be measured by a variety of tools including,
meeting Forest Service standard specifications as appropriate, the positive
attention these projects receive in the local media and the continued expansion
of local partnerships.
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Evaluation forms are provided for all project managers to insure that all
projects are completed to the specifications and standards of the project
sponsor.
In addition to the detail in the quarterly reports provided to the Forest
Service and the Corporation, Western Rural Development Center at Oregon State
University will be providing a detailed evaluation of staff, health and safety,
food service, physical facilities, education, work projects (including the time
spent on each project), the educational programs, vehicles, expenditures and
other items as needed.
Another evaluation of quality comes from the members themselves as they assess
their impacts both in the natural and community environments.
How will success be gauged?
Standards of success will be measurable and demonstrable.
They will include both social categories, like number of homes contacted in
lead abatement programs (both paint and drinking water), and natural
categories, like the number of miles of Forest roads restored to a natural
condition or the number of miles of fence built to preserve riparian areas
along Northwest streams. The NWSA is working closely with the State of Oregon.
and Washington AmeriCorps Commissions on a system of documenting the cost
effectiveness of each project that should be in effect by the beginning of the
second service year.
How many individuals will receive the benefit of the work the members perform?
Those who spend over 11 million recreation visitor days on the Mt. Hood and
Gifford Pinchot National Forests and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic
Area will benefit by the improved safety and quality of their recreational
experience.
Six thousand public school students will have received environmental education
messages from Academy Members, in addition to the 4,000 served in the first
year of service.
The urban Northeast Portland area, home of well over 30,000, will benefit from
a decrease in blight and drug trade as their community is recaptured through
community garden development.
The rural community of Trout Lake, home of the Mt. Adams residential NWSA
program as well as its 700 residents will benefit from the further development
and improvement of the Trout Lake Community School developed by the NWSA
members in the 1995 service year.
Those who live near, work or recreate on National Forest lands will benefit
from the variety of resource improvements accomplished by AmeriCorps Members.
3. PROGRAM SUMMARY
Through a third party agreement, the Two Mountain AmeriCorps program will be
incorporated into the Northwest Service Academy (NWSA) AmeriCorps program which
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will engage 110 full-time Members at both a metropolitan non-residential site
in Troutdale, Oregon and a residential site at Mt. Adams, Washington.
NWSA is designed as a team based program with teams ranging from 7 -10 Members
plus a team steward (supervisor). Approximately 35 percent of the work will
occur on National Forest Lands managed by the Mt. Hood and Gifford Pinchot
National Forests as well as the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic area while
65 percent of the work will occur in both the metro community of
Portland-Vancouver as well as the rural timber dependent communities
surrounding National Forest lands on these 3 units in both Oregon and
Washington.
Making the best use of the community resources resulted in the development of a
larger non-residential site located on the western and more heavily used
portion of National Forest lands and a smaller, residential site located on the
eastern end where community development would emphasize smaller, rural
setting. Both sites take advantage of "underutilized" Forest Service
facilities. The settings allow the NWSA to meet the needs of the urban and
rural communities during the winter months when most of the National Forest
lands are snowed in.
The NWSA goal of "Learning civic responsibility by providing service to the
community and the environment" will occur by members accomplishing needed
environmental work both on and off forest as well as service to the communities
the three Forest Service units embrace.
The NWSA was originally conceived as the result of the labors of a large and
diverse collaborative group of over a dozen Federal, state, county, and
community organizations. In addition to the states of Oregon and Washington,
collaborators include the Bonneville Power Administration, the Cities of
Portland and Gresham, Oregon, Hood River and Troutlake School Districts, the
Mid Columbia Council of Governments, the Yakima Tribal Nation, the Urban League
of Portland, the Human Resources Consortium, Wolftree, Inc, Mt. Hood Community
College, and Klickitat and Wasco Counties. Expanded partnerships for the
second year of service include: Washington State University, METRO, Washington
State Department of Ecology, and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Total cash contributions of the nonfederal partners will be at least $185,000.
A typical day in the life of a NWSA AmeriCorps Member begins with stretching
exercises. Project plans are reviewed, equipment is prepared, and teams travel
to their service site, where they meet with the project manager who initially
outlines the specifications of the work to be done, provides detailed safety
training, reviews the crew's progress and arranges for service learning
presentations. The service day is usually 9 hours long and includes time for
discussion, reflection, and debriefing. During the late spring through early
fall, one crew per week will "spike" camp out at or near the work project, to
cover a greater geographic area than a daily commute would allow.
Before the service year is complete, Members will experience many different
types of service in the community and natural areas of the Pacific Northwest.
Diversity has been the hallmark of the NWSA. Current cultural diversity is at
27 percent for NWSA members in two states that are only 10-12 percent
culturally diverse. Ages currently range from a low of 17 to a high of 72 and
over half the Members have either completed college or been in college while 8
percent are working on their GED. The recruitment techniques that resulted in
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this successful cross section of diversity will be even more finely tuned and
successful for this second recruitment period.
4. COLLABORATION:
The NWSA, the recepient of the Two Mountain Cooperative Agreement was conceived
as a collaborative bi-state, three Forest, multicounty proposal to match the
opportunity of National Community Service with the needs of the Pacific
Northwest area in the Columbia River Gorge surrounded by two mountains, Mt.
Hood and Mt. Adams. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining the
collaborative commitment was signed during the first year of service and will
continue to support the NWSA. Those signatories of the MOU include:
State Agencies
The State of Oregon *
Washington Service Corps
Oregon State University *
Educational Service District 112 (that serves SW Washington)
Federal Agencies:
R-6 USDA Forest Service *
Bonneville Power Administration
City and County Governments:
Mid-Columbia Council of Governments
City of Gresham *
Hood River School District
Trout Lake School District *
Tribal Governments:
The Yakama Tribal Nation *
Community Based Non-Profits
Urban League of Portland
Human Resources Consortium
Environmentally Based Non-Profits
Wolftree, Inc.
In addition, fee for service support and private donations totalling $185,000
are projected. During the first year of service those listed above with * as
well as the following organizations provided funding for the NWSA.
NIKE, Inc.
Bank of Tokyo
Thompson-Mc Dougall Corporation
City of Portland
Klickitat County
Marquam Park Association
The National Forest Foundation
Mt. Hood Meadows Corporation
Mt. Hood Community College
And many others
Additional partners are making plans for the upcoming year and they include
Washington State University, METRO, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the
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cities of Troutdale and Portland, Oregon, and the Sate of Washington Department
of Ecology as well as Wasco County (Oregon).
The NWSA has developed a partnership with Mt Hood Community College from which
Members receive 8 credit hours of transferable credit while in service and we
hope to increase that to 36 credit hours next year when a new natural resources
curriculum is fully implemented.
5. ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY
The Forest Service
The Mt. Hood, Gifford Pinchot and Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
have a great deal of experience successfully implementing programs including a
wide variety of non-residential programs as well as the Camp Cody and Camp
Adams residential Youth Forest Camps, the Multnomah County Alternative Service
Program, and they were some of the strongest advocates for the conception of
the Northwest Service Academy.
Forest Service oversight of the NWSA/Two Mountain AmeriCorps will be provided
by one of two experienced Manpower Development Specialists with 15-20 years of
experience each in implementing Human Resource Program partnerships, as well as
an assistant (Works Coordinator) who will provide the link between Forest
Service project managers and NWSA staff, insuring that projects selected meet
objectives of the Forest Service, the NWSA and the Members.
In addition, Forest Service project managers (technicians and biologists) who
propose projects will be providing the technical specifications for each
project, monitoring the work quality and quantity, and assisting in
coordinating service learning opportunities tied to each project.
The Northwest Service Academy
The NWSA is part of the Educational Service District 112, of Vancouver,
Washington, a 501.3C organization, and the second largest educational
institution in the state of Washington with over 3100 employees. ESD 112 has
the organizational capacity to fully support the NWSA including processing
living allowances, providing liability and workman's compensation insurance.
As the NWSA was selected through a competitive process to run the Two Mountain
AmeriCorps, a third party agreement will be developed with ESD 112.
For 1995-6 the NWSA plans to have 20.5 staff and 10 AmeriCorps Leaders. Staff
at each center will include a Center Director, a Project Coordinator, a Senior
Team Facilitator (who oversees all staff and personnel matters), an Educational
Coordinator, from three to six Team Stewards (crew leaders) and five Academy
Leaders (individuals who have previously completed a year of service and are
given additional responsibilities).
The NWSA staff have had one year's experience operating an AmeriCorps program
(under subtitle D), have the proven experience to work with a diverse group of
Members and are skilled and experienced.
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NWSA Principle Staff include:
Jon Stewart, Academy Director, a career Forest Service employee with over 20
years experience specializing in a variety of Human Resource Programs. Jon is
"on loan" to the ESD through an Interagency Personnel Agreement.
Joe Parvankin, the Metro Center Director, worked extensively for the Washington
County Educational District Service (Oregon) and has four years experience
operating Camp Cody, the only residential Youth Conservation Corps Camp in the
Forest Service nationwide.
Jerry Gabay, the Mt. Adams Center Director, has worked in public affairs in the
Pacific Northwest Regional Office, and has strong connections with various
congressional delegations and the press in the rural Mid-Columbia area.
All team stewards have been selected for their proven field experience working
with youth programs as well as conservation projects. About half of the staff
have gained their skills by working as fish and wildlife biologists, field
technicians, and crew leaders for the Forest Service. The team leaders ability
to maintain high morale while successfully completing a variety of conservation
resource projects (in all types of weather!) has been proven in the first year
of service.
Training
Training, which does not exceed 20 percent of a members total service year, is
ongoing and focuses on a natural resources curriculum that includes the history
and ethics of national service, team building exercises, conflict resolution,
fire training, CPR, first aid, chain saw certification and a wide scope of
educational activities most of which are tied directly to the projects being
accomplished. Training is presently organized around monthly forums, and all
academy summits that help build a strong environmental ethic and commitment to
service.
All staff receive the core competencies of all AmeriCorps programs which
includes Standard Red Cross First Aid, CPR, conflict resolution, etc. All staff
and members who have a safe driving record and who are over 21 years of age
receive a complete defensive driver's training program.
NWSA has developed detailed training curriculum, leadership handbooks, and
operational manuals including a NWSA Member's handbook.
6. INNOVATION AND REPLICATION
Innovation is threaded throughout the NWSA AmeriCorps model and includes the
strong collaborative base resulting in its development, the blending of
projects that serve communities surrounding and tied to a National Forest land
base as well as the natural resources found on National Forests.
The NWSA provides an innovative opportunity for three Forest Service units to:
make good use of underutilized buildings as a result of downsizing and
reorganization
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put to good use the skills of former temporary employees whose jobs with
the agency have vanished
better serve their communities in terms of rural development initiatives
and assisting in the transition from a timber based economy
get needed, unfunded work done with a workforce that comes with training
and supervision
Many aspects of the NWSA AmeriCorps program can be replicated throughout the
nation.
Other urban forests could benefit from the model of one crew based program that
serves both urban and rural needs and has a metro non-residential program as
well as residential component located in a more rural setting.
The residential aspect of the program allows for an increased level of personal
growth and development for Members as they have a more concentrated opportunity
for meeting and learning from other Members of a diverse group and more time
set aside for evening programs.
The blending of project work on-and-off-Forest provides many perspectives to
natural resource work as well as provides work site opportunities year round
(which would not happen for a program of this size if the work was limited to
Forest lands, due to a limited field season
7. DETAILED RECRUITMENT PLAN
Active recruitment is already taking place at college fairs and high schools
with up to 20 percent being targeted on a national basis this coming year.
The peak recruitment period is April through June as we try to target this
critical student population. Hour long interviews based upon Peace Corps
recruitment criteria start in May and continue through August as we select
potential participants. Orientation begins in August with Members sworn in
after three weeks of training starting on September 4, 1995.
Recruitment will demonstrate the Northwest Service Academy's commitment to
assemble a diverse group of AmeriCorps members. Members will represent all the
various ethnic, geographic, economic and educational groups listed below.
GOALS
Gender:
50% female/50% male
Average Age:
23
Ethnic background:
10% African American
10% Hispanic
5% Native American
5% Asian
Geography:
50% Columbia River Basin
30% Greater Washington and Oregon
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20% National AmeriCorps
Income:
A diverse population will be targeted for recruitment.
This may include poor, middle class and wealthy
individuals
Education level:
50% Four year college & university students
30% Two year community college students
20% High school graduated and GED
RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Recruitment will be conducted targeting specific focus groups utilizing various
outreach techniques. March 27 through May 1, 1995 is the primary time.
FOCUS GROUPS
-Local Colleges and Universities
(NWSA has contacted 40 two year and 70 four year colleges)
*Student Activities Office
*Specific Educational Departments
*Women and Minority Organizations
*Environmental Clubs
*Student Government
*Non-traditional Students Office
*Career Planning and Placement Office
*Financial Aid Office
*Co-op/Internship Office
-Existing International, National, State and Community Service
Programs
*Washingon and Oregon Peace Corps and Vista Offices
*AmeriCorps State Offices and other Programs in WA and OR
*Local Lions, Kiwanis, Rotary, etc.
-City and Community Governments. Amy Neal (Metro)
*Portland Neighborhood Organizations
*Trout Lake Town Hall and City Council
*Urban League
-AmeriCorps National Recruitment
*Interested Washingtonians and Oregonians
*National magazines and service careers listings
*Others willing to relocate
OUTREACH TECHNIOUES
- Personal contact and presentation (wherever possible)
- Supportive connections/contacts
Local newspapers
Broadcast media
Materials distribution
-
Internet
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RECRUITING TIMELINE
FEB. 6
Recruiting plan developed
FEB. 7
Photos taken
FEB. 16
Recruitment Plan approved
FEB. 16
Brochure/poster done for content
FEB. 21
Begin scheduling outreach visits for March and April
FEB. 22
Materials to layout/design
MARCH 13
Materials to printer
MARCH 8
Orientation to staff/members 12:30-3:30
MARCH 27
Finished products ready to distribute
MARCH 15
INTAKE SYSTEM DESIGNED AND ON-LINE
MARCH 27
Begin outreach
MARCH 27
Teach For America (interview orientation)
Reed College 6:00-8:00 PM
APRIL
Continue outreach. follow a tight schedule
Continue through MAY 1
APRIL 3
Center specific materials developed
MAY 1
EARLY APPLICATION DEADLINE
*interviews/open houses by May 19
*orientations May 22-June 2
JUNE 15
Final deadline
*interviews/open house June 5-16
*orientations start June 19-July 14
JULY 28
FINAL DECISIONS
SEPTEMBER 5
Training Starts
BEGIN YEAR OF SERVICE
RECRUITMENT RESOURCES
HIGH SCHOOLS
*Stanley Smart Louit Tribal School
Toppenish, WA 98948
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EXISTING SERVICE PROGRAMS
WASHINGTON: AMERICORPS
Washington Commission for National & Community Service: 360-753-1814
Corporation for National & Community Service: 206-553-4975
U.S.D.A. - Public Lands and Environment Team: Dave Johnson, 360-756-3368
EPA - Urban Stream Restoration Project: Susan Handley, 206-553-1287
U.S. D.O.T. - Drainage Corridor Restoration Project: Phil Oaks, 360-696-8171
Youth Volunteer Corps - David Kelly-Hedrick, 206-885-0477
Literacy AmeriCorps - Edith Johnson, 206-684-6648
JustServe Community Public Safety Project - Lynn Livesley, 206-727-0377
Ecumenical Program for Urban Service - Terryl Ross, 206-525-1213
Youth and HIV/AIDS Service Partnership - Kris Urv-Wong, 206-383-3452
*Salmon Corps - Chuck Williams, 503-298-3474
Natural Resources Conservation Service - Dave Kreft, 509-773-5823
Teach for America - Anne Mahle, 206-298-7082
Farm Worker Pesticide Protection Project - Dan Ford, 206-464-5933
Rural Development Team - Mary McBride, 509-664-0249
Puget Sound Local Initiatives Support Corporation - Angelina Allen-Mpyisi,
206-358-0673
AmeriCorps Green Lights Project - Marc Ross, 503-448-0474
Youth Fair Chance Program - Veronica Rivisto, 206-448-0474
Public Awarness Commitment of Kitsap - Diana Theroux, 360-426-3990
CITY AND COMMUNTIY GOVERNMENTS & ORGANIZATIONS
*American Friends Service Committee
Urban League of Portland
2249 East Burnside
10 N Russell
Con Calento/Alice Perry
503-230-9427
503-280-2600
(phoned and sent informational letter 2/22/95
NATIONAL RECRUITMENT RESOURCES
Earthwork
Sierra
P.O. Box 550
730 Polk St.
Charlestown, NH 03603
San Francisco, CA 94109
(student conservation association)
"Job Scan" is a major section of this magazine
Nature Conservancy Magazine
Wildlife Conservation
1815 N. Lynn St.
New York Zoological Society
Arlington, VA 22209
Bronx, NY 10460
Wild Earth
Environmental Opportunities
68 Riverside, Apt. 1
Box 788
Canton, NY 13617
Walpole, NH 03608-0788
603-756-4553
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Buzzworm: the environmental journal
2305 Canyon Blvd., Suite 205
Association for Experiential Education
Boulder, CO 80302
Box 249 CU
"Connection" section: volunteer
Boulder, CO 80309
opportunities and environmental jobs
303-492-1547
Publishes: Jobs Clearing House
(monthly)
Newsletter (three/year)
National Audubon Society
Greenpeace Magazine
950 Third Ave.
1436 U St. NW
New York, NY 10022
Washington, D.C. 20009
National Association of Service and Conservation Corps
666 Eleventh St. NW, Suite 500
Washington, D.C. 20001
Job Seeker
Center for Service Learning
Route 2, Box 16
Gail Albert
Warrens, WI 54466-9501
Univ. of Vermont
(608) -378-4290
Nicholson House
Burlington, VT 05405
Job opportunities for Liberal Arts Majors:
Non-profit jobs listing
NEWSPAPERS/NEWSLETTERS (local)
El Hispanic News
The Enterprise
The Oregonian
901 SE Oak ST.
220 Jewett Blvd.
Portland, OR 97214
White Salmon, WA
503-234-2194
509-493-2112
Juan Prats
D. C. Jesse Burkhardt
Ruralite Market
Daily Chronicle
Seattle Post Intelligence
P.O. Box 558
414 Federal Street
P.O. Box 1900
Forest Grove, OR 97116 The Dalles, OR 97058
Seattle, WA 98111
Deadlines for ads:
206-448-8000
April issue: 2-28-95
Kimberly Mills
May issue: 3-31-95
RADIO AND TV STATIONS
KBOO 92.7
KCGB 105.5
KFAE 90.3
White Salmon
Hood River
Goldendale
KMCQ 104.5
KOPB 91.5
The Dalles
Portland
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8. DETAILED WORKPLAN AND MILESTONE SCHEDULE
Pre-Camp Activities and Planning
NWSA Contractor submits National Direct Application
May 9, 1995
Interviews/open house at Mt Adams Center
May 19, 1995
Orientation at Mt. Adams Center
May 22-June 2, 1995
Open houses for members and family at both Centers
June 5-16, 1995
Orientations and interviews for member selection
June 19-July 14, 1995
Notification of Grant Award to NWSA
July 18, 1995
Organizational meeting with NWSA Contractor
July 20, 1995
Active Forest Service project solicitation begins
July 21, 1995
End of Mt Adams NWSA 1994-95 year
July 21, 1995
End of Metro NWSA 1994-95 year
July 28, 1995
On-Site Activities and Training
Training calander for 1995-96 year prepared
June 14, 1995
Academy Leader and staff training begins
Aug. 14, 1995
Center cleanup and preparations
Aug. 28, 1995
Final preparations
Aug. 31, 1995
Center Operations
AmeriCorps Members arrive at Centers
Sept. 5, 1995
Academy wide safety training
Sept. 5-15, 1995
Project work begins
Sept. 18, 1995
Fall recruitment period begins
November 15 1995
Christmas holiday
Dec 24-Jan 7, 1996
Winter safety training for new members
Jan. 8-12, 1996
NWSA closed for spring break
March 16-24, 1996
Last day of work
August 8, 1996
Graduation day and concluding ceremonies
August 9, 1996
Completion of program evaluations and reports
August 23, 1996
9 DETAILED BUDGET (detailed on a separate sheet)
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THE CHATTAHOOCHEE-OCONEE AMERICORPS CONSERVATION CORPS
PROJECT TITLE: The Chattahoochee-Oconee AmeriCorps Conservation Corps
ADDRESS/LOCATION: Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest; 508 Oak Street;
Gainesville, GA 30501
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT OF CENTRAL PROJECT SITE: 9th, 10th & 11th
ADDITIONAL CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS IN WHICH SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED: 3rd
This will be a rural project. Some of the areas where work will be performed
are located in high poverty counties.
PROJECT START DATE: October 1, 1995
PROJECT COMPLETION DATE: June 30, 1996
NUMBER OF FULL TIME MEMBERS: 25
NUMBER OF PART TIME MEMBERS: 0
George G. Martin
Forest Supervisor
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
508 Oak Street
Gainesville, GA 30501
Telephone: 404-536-0541
FAX: 404-534-4411
DG Address: R08F03A
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
I.
OBJECTIVE STATEMENT
1
II. COMPONENTS OF THE OBJECTIVE STATEMENT
1-3
III. SUMMARY PAGE
4
IV. COLLABORATION
5
V. ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY
5-6
VI. DETAILED RECRUITMENT PLAN
7
VII. DETAILED WORKPLAN AND MILESTONE SCHEDULE
8-10
VIII. BUDGET NARRATIVE
11
APPENDIX A: CONSOLIDATED EBLI & DISTRIBUTION
APPENDIX B: DETAILED BUDGET WORKSHEET
132
OBJECTIVE STATEMENT
The primary objective of the Chattahoochee-Oconee AmeriCorps Conservation Corps
(COACC) is to engage 25 full-time AmeriCorps members to address
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest's (CONF) critical environmental needs by
providing the highest quality of public service in natural resource management,
environmental protection, recreation development, and conservation. The COACC
members will conserve and restore CONF environmental treasures by implementing
physical improvements and services for maximum use and minimum impact on
Georgia's watershed, fisheries, wildlife and recreational resources. The work
of the COACC will achieve direct benefits for Georgia's environmental health,
tourism, recreation, agriculture and local economy.
COMPONENTS OF THE OBJECTIVE STATEMENT
A.
What work will be done? What service will your members engage in?
Projects that AmeriCorps will accomplish and the number of hours
worked:
--Trail Construction
8,240 hours
--Trail Maintenance
10,120 hours
--Recreation Facilities Construction and Maintenance
11,900 hours
-Wildlife Habitat Improvements
3,060 hours
-Fisheries Habitat Improvements
680 hours
B.
What is the hoped for result of the activities described above.
The COACC will deploy three crews with one work leader each to
develop trails, including a trail for persons with disabilities;
improve fisheries habitats, and rehabilitate trails, campgrounds and
other recreation resources.
Trail Construction will include the following trails: A five mile
hunting trail with blinds for people with disabilities will be
constructed on the Oconee National Forest. Twenty six miles of
horse trails in the Upper Chattahoochee River Recreation Area will be
constructed. Eight additional miles of new trail will be built on
the Brasstown District.
Trail Maintenance will take place a variety of trail types including
foot, bike, ATV, OHV and horse trails. Trails ranging from
development levels 1 through 5, as well as National Recration trails
and the Appalachian Trail. A National Scenic Trail is included in
this project also.
Recreation Facilities Construction and Maintenance will include
rehabilitating all campsites in Lake Russell Recreation Area and
rehabilitate 30 dispersed campsites in the Upper Chattahoochee
River Recreation Area. Members will construct picnic tables, install
lantern posts and fire grills, spread gravel on impact zones,
repair and paint buildings, construct retaining walls and a variety
of other jobs involved in campground maintenance on the Tallulah,
Chattooga, Chestatee, Brasstown and Oconee Districts.
133
Wildlife habitat improvements and rehabilitation on 20 acres of game
food plots in the Lake Russell Game Management Area and the
Chattahoochee River Game Management Area. Members will also
construct linear openings, construct, maintain and install a variety
of song and game bird nesting boxes as well as bat boxes.
Fisheries habitat improvement will take place on trout streams in
Chattahoochee Game Management area, the Lake Russell Game Management
area and other streams on the Tallulah, Chattooga, Chestatee,
Brasstown and Oconee Districts. Fish structures will be constructed.
C. How will you measure the quality of these activities?
The field staff of all SCA programs receive a high level of training
to insure that all work projects performed for SCA agency partners
are completed to meet or exceed agency specifications. AmeriCorps
members will receive work skills training to perform the work
projects. Team leaders will give daily guidance and assess project
quality daily, weekly and monthly. The project leader will work
closely with the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest staff to ensure
all projects meet specifications.
D. By what standard will you gage success?
The quality and standard of success will be a joint effort involving
SCA, Forest Service and the public. All SCA programs are evaluated
in writing by participants, field staff, supervisors and agency
coordinators. Site visits by Forest Service and SCA management will
be continuous. An annual team review of overall program
administration and structure will be made. The normal Forest Service
standards that we use for all projects will gage the success of the
projects.
E. How may individuals will receive the benefit of the work your members
perform?
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is located within a one to
two hour drive from Atlanta. More that 12 million people visit the
Forest each year. The two visitor centers annually receive
international visitors from as many as 40 foreign countries. The
number of both domestic and international visitors are expected to
skyrocket during the summer of 1996 due to the Olympics being held in
Atlanta. The enhancement of recreation facilities will provide these
individuals a enjoyable experience at the same time providing
benefits to local communities by increased tourism trade.
SUMMARY PAGE
The Chattahoochee-Oconee AmeriCorps Conservation Corps (COACC) will be operated
by Student Conservation Association (SCA), in partnership with the
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests. The COACC will engage the 25 full-time
National Service members, of diverse geographic, racial/cultural, and
educational backgrounds. Through its endeavors the COCC will promote
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productive adulthood by providing youth the highest quality of public service
opportunities in natural resource management.
COACC will meet Georgia's critical environmental needs by providing the highest
quality public service in natural resource management, environmental
protection, recreation development, and conservation. The COACC members will
conserve and restore Georgia's environmental treasures by implementing physical
improvements and services for maximum use and minimum impact on Georgia's
watershed, fisheries, wildlife and recreational resources. The work of the
COACC will achieve direct and demonstrable benefits for Georgia's environmental
health, tourism, recreation and agriculture.
The COACC will begin October 1, 1995. The COACC will deploy 3 teams with one
work leader each to repair and develop recreational trails, improve fisheries
habitats, conserve water resources, develop a trail for persons with
disabilities, and restore camping and recreational resources. In addition, the
youth will be provided with comprehensive career services and on-going training
to enhance their long-term employability. A project leader and an assistant
project leader will provide overall direction and act as on-site liaison to
forest staff. The assistant project leader will also be an AmeriCorps member.
SCA will direct all work, training and administrative functions for the COACC.
SCA will provide the liability and health insurance, workers compensation,
child care, and 15% in-cash matching funds for members' stipends. SCA will
provide on-going coordination with members and the Corporation for National
Service.
SCA will be responsible for recruitment, program implementation and follow-up
services for members. Georgia youth between 17-25 will be recruited from the
counties of Banks, Dawson, Fannin, Habersham, Lumpkin, Rabun, Stephens, Towns,
Union, White, Greene, Jasper, Morgan, Oconee, Oglethorpe, and Putnam to perform
work on the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.
COLLABORATION
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest selected the Student Association
(SCA), throught the competitive process to be our third-party.
Supplemental Funding Sources
SCA programs are funded in part through a cost-share arrangement between public
and private agencies and the Association. Funding from cooperating agencies is
provided on a fee-for-service basis. SCA raises its share of the cost through
contributions from foundations, corporations, and its individual members. With
its major federal partners, SCA operates under the terms of national
cooperative agreements. Over 300 corporations and foundations contribute to
SCA.
SCA will also seek corporate and foundation support specific for the COACC.
This funding comes from both local and national corporations.
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ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is a national, nonprofit
organization dedicated to the conservation of America's natural resources and
the environmental education of its youth. Since its beginning in 1957, the
Association has become the country's oldest and largest provider of
conservation volunteers. During the past thirty-seven years, over 22,000 SCA
volunteers have participated in SCA programs, which are conducted in
partnership with the National Park Service, the USDA-Forest Service, the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the National
biological Service, and many state, municipal and private resource management
agencies.
Proposed Staffing Methodology
COACC TEAM
SCA HQ
SCA Capitol Office
Charlestonw, NH
Arlington, VA
(Provides Adm & Mgt Support)
(Provides Operational Direction & Supv)
Flip Hagood, Asst. Dir.
(Manages design & implement program)
COACC Project Director
One Member
(Asst. to Project Dir)
COACC Team Leader
COACC Team Leader
COACC Team Leader
8 members
8 members
9 members
One member from each team to act as assistant
to Team Leaders
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RECRUITMENT PLAN
Participant Profile
Participants will be selected from an applicant pool generated by incorporating
the Corporation for National Service recruitment system with local recruitment
sources such as schools, youth organizations, and community organizations. SCA
will seek to create a diverse applicant pool of 4 applicants for each position
available. The program will be gender balanced and target individuals 17 and
older from various socio-economic backgrounds concentrating on local youth in
Georgia. Program staff will comprise a group of talented, diverse and
experienced youth leaders trained in natural resource management. Specialized
skill training and emergency medical training will be provided by SCA.
Recruitment Strategy and Philosophy
SCA currently uses a multimedia approach to recruit participants. As part of
the recruitment strategy, SCA relies on a network which includes teachers and
administrators from area schools. In addition, SCA has particular expertise in
Georgia schools where staff members have had a direct, in-class recruitment and
educational presence for several years. In seeking participants for COACC, SCA
will use its existing network of Georgia teachers and administrators who are
familiar with SCA programs. In addition, to enhance relationships with the
targeted communities, SCA's recruiting staff will visit schools and community
organizations, speaking about the COACC. SCA experience has proven that such
personal visits are the most effective means by which to recruit students and
prepare them for the program. SCA will work with local District Rangers to
recruit and identify skilled youth. SCA will distribute program flyers, press
releases, applications and make use of public service T.V. and radio to
announce available opportunities.
Recruitment Time Line:
April 17, 1995
Launch crew leader and member recruitment campaign
April - June, 1995
Recruitment visits and interviews
July 7, 1995
Deadline for applications & start date for project leader
July 10-21, 1995
Final Interviews
July 28, 1995
Deadline for acceptance and declination for members
and crew leaders
DETAILED WORKPLAN AND MILESTONE SCHEDULE
NOTE: All of these projects will be on various Districts which include
Tallulah, Chattooga, Chestatee, Brasstown and Oconee
A. Trail Construction and Maintenance
Members will be involved in construction of new trails and maintenance of
existing trails. A variety of trail types including foot, bike, ATV, ORV
and horse trails will benefit from this work. Trails ranging from development
levels 1 through 5, as well as National Recreation trails and the Appalachian
Trail and a National Scenic Trail are included in this project. Members will
build 26 miles of horse trails in the Upper Chattahoochee River Recreation
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Area, a five mile hunting trail with blinds for people with disabilities and 8
miles of new trail construction on the Brasstown Ranger District.
The objectives of this work are to protect the natural resources, enhance
visitor access and outdoor education, and create or improve accessibility for
people with disabilities.
Participants will learn how and why trails are maintained/constructed to a
certain standard and how these standards meet the above objectives.
Participants will learn how hydrology, soils, and topography interact and how
potential problems, such as erosion, from these natural forces are addressed
through trail design and location. Carpentry skills will be learned or
enhanced through the construction of foot bridges and observation decks.
Members working on the trail for people with disabilities will broaden their
experience in dealing with the needs of this group. This project will be
overseen by a recreation/trail professionals. Participants will be working
closely with the trails and engineering technicians.
TRAIL CONSTRUCTION EBLI IS CNTR AND APPROXIMATELY 29 OR MORE ACRES WILL BE
ACCOMPLISHED
TRAIL MAINTENANCE EBLI IS NFRM AND APPROXIMATELY 100 OR MORE ACRES WILL BE
ACCOMPLISHED
TOTAL HOURS: 18,360
DATES: November 1, 1995 - June 30, 1996
B. Wildlife Habitat Improvement
Participants will be involved in the construction, maintenance and installation
of a variety of song and game bird nesting boxes as well as bat boxes. The
objective of this work is to enhance the habitat and populations of Georgia's
native and migratory birds and bats, some of which are categorized as
protected, endangered, threatened or otherwise in danger of becoming extinct.
Participants will learn about habitat requirements and nesting requirements of
the various bird and bat species found on the National Forest and dependent on
the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest for survival.
Participants will maintain wildlife openings by burning, mowing, seeding,
fertilizing, etc. These plots are located in the Lake Russell Game Management
Area, the Chattahoochee River Game Management Area and other areas on the
Chattooga, Tallulah, Brasstown, Chestatee and Oconee Districts.
AmeriCorps participants will work along with agencies such as Dept. of Natural
Resources under our Co-op Agreement. By working on habitat improvements with
other agencies it will provide broad range experience for participants.
EBLI IS NFWL AND APPROXIMATELY 70 ACRES OR MORE WILL BE MAINTAINED AND UNKNOWN
HOW MANY NESTING BOXES WILL BE CONSTRUCTED AND INSTALLED.
TOTAL HOURS: 3,060
SCHEDULED DATES: January 15 - May 15, 1996
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C. Fisheries Habitat Improvement
Participants will be involved in the construction, maintenance and installation
of fish structures in the cold water streams managed for several species of
trout. The objective of this work is to enhance the habitat for not only trout
but the many other fish and aquatic organisms that inhabit the cold water
streams of North Georgia. Habitat improvements implemented at Dockery Lake and
other streams will expose participants to a different type of fisheries and
aquatic habitat. Participants will learn about these habitats and why the
improvements are beneficial. They will also learn about hydrology, soil
dynamics (sedimentation), fisheries biology and how these interact. Projects
will be overseen by a Zone Wildlife Biologist, Forest Fisheries Biologist,
Forest Hydrologist and District Fisheries Technicians.
Projects will take place on trout streams in Chattahoochee Game Management area
and the Lake Russell Game Management Area. Work will also take place on other
streams on the Brasstown, Chattooga, Chestatee, Tallulah and Oconee
Districts.
EBLI IS NFIF AND APPROXIMATELY 55 PLUS ACRES WILL BE MAINTAINED AND NUMEROUS
FISH STRUCTURES WILL BE CONSTRUCTED.
TOTAL HOURS: 680
SCHEDULED DATES: October 15 - November 30, 1995
D. Recreation Construction and Maintenance
Participants will be involved in the construction and maintenance of outdoor
recreation facilities in developed campgrounds and picnic areas as well as
sites dispersed throughout North Georgia. The objective of this work is to
provide the opportunities for a variety of safe outdoor recreation experiences
for visitors, tourists, and residents while protecting the natural resource.
Participants will be involved in helping to maintain existing facilities to
standard and learn why these standards are necessary to enhance the visitors
experience and safety while protecting the natural resources from degradation.
They will construct picnic tables, install lantern posts and fire grills,
spread gravel on impact zones, repair and paint buildings, construct retaining
walls and a variety of other jobs involved in campground maintenance.
Participants will also be constructing dispersed campsites near streams where
heavy camping has degraded streamside zones to the point that areas are devoid
of vegetation causing stream sedimentation and degradation of water quality.
Participants will learn about soils, hydrology and erosion and how the design
and proper placement of these designated campsites will enhance the campers
experience, return vegetation to these critical areas and ultimately enhance
water quality.
Work in both developed and dispersed areas will be overseen by the recreation,
soil and water and fisheries professionals.
EBLI IS NFRM AND IT IS ESTIMATED THAT AMERICORPS MEMBERS WORK ACCOMPLISHED IN
RECREATION AREAS WILL HELP US MEET OUR PAOT MAR TARGETS BY ENHANCING THE
RECREATION AREAS.
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TOTAL HOURS: 11,900
SCHEDULED DATES: October 15, 1995 June 30, 1996
BUDGET NARRATIVE
A. PARTICIPANT SUPPORT COST
Includes funds for curriculum development, orientation training, speakers,
field trips, participant handbooks, conferences, career services, SCA Work
Skills training and environmental education.
B. STAFF
Includes funds for compensation and benefits for one Project Director and three
project supervisors. There will also be one position to be the Assistant to
the Director who will be an AmeriCorps Member, but funds for this position are
included in Section F, Other Participant Support Costs.
C. OPERATIONAL
Includes funds for SCA and COACC staff travel, three vans and one
administrative vehicle plus gas, safety equipment including cellular phones,
beepers and access to SCA's emergency response system, office supplies and
equipment, telephone, printing and postage expenses, recruiting expenses
including travel associated with school visits, press releases and flyers,
first aid supplies, field and camping equipment, and project tools and
equipment.
D. INTERNAL EVALUATION
Includes funds for written materials to participants, Forest Service
coordinators, and project supervisors, the development of individual
participant portfolios, and SCA staff assessment costs. Cost are based on
evaluation dollar levels as stipulated in SCA's National Cooperative Agreement
with the U.S. Forest Service.
E. ADMINISTRATION
Based on the AmeriCorps regulation from the last fiscal year that
administrative costs be capped at 5% of the total of budget categories A-F.
F. OTHER PARTICIPANT SUPPORT COSTS
Based on the AmeriCorps regulation from the last fiscal year that applicant
organizations provide 15% of the living allowance, FICA and Worker's
Compensation, and health care insurance in cash. SCA will obtain the later
through the National Association of Service and Conservation Corps (NASCC) and
their health insurance coverage with Willis-Corroon.
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AmeriCorps USA
Public Lands and Environment Program
Daniel Boone National Forest
London Ranger District
London, Kentucky
Fifth Congressional District
Rural Area
(Not CNCS Priority)
PROJECT START DATE:
September 10, 1995
PROJECT COMPLETION DATE:
September 10, 1996
20 Full Time Members
Bradley E. Powell
Forest Supervisor
Daniel Boone National Forest
1700 Bypass Lane
Winchester, KY 40391
Telephone: 606-745-3100
FAX: 606-744-1568
DG Address: R08F02A
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
I.
ABSTRACT
1
II.
OBJECTIVE STATEMENT
2
III. COLLABORATION
5
IV.
ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY
6
V.
INNOVATION AND REPLICABILITY
7
VI.
DETAILED RECRUITMENT PLAN
8
APPENDIX A: DETAILED BUDGET WORKSHEET
APPENDIX B: BUDGET NARRATIVE
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I.
ABSTRACT
The Daniel Boone National Forest AmeriCorps USA program will recruit 20
participants, of diverse geographic, racial/cultural, and educational
backgrounds, to perform work that will benefit National Forest programs and
local community projects.
Projects that AmeriCorps will accomplish include the following (revised)
NFTE- Threatened and Endangered Species habitat enhancement.
12,600 hours
NFRM- Recreation facilities construction and maintenance.
8,700 hours
NFSI- Watershed improvement.
1,900 hours
NFRM- Environmental Education.
2,000 hours
NFRM- Community and National Forest beautification.
2,000 hours
Total Hours of Direct Service
27,200
A typical workweek will consist of receiving instruction from Forest
Service personnel on how to do the project, why the project is necessary,
and project safety. After receiving this instruction, corps members will
work on the project until completion under the supervision of their crew
leaders and with guidance from Forest Service personnel.
The projects accomplished by AmeriCorps members will benefit both the local
communities and non local users of the National Forest by the following:
- The recreation projects will help provide a superior recreation
experience for forest users and would increase local revenue through
increased tourism.
- The Threatened and Endangered species habitat projects provide intangible
benefits by helping to sustain the viability of these species.
- The watershed improvement projects will help to maintain the high quality
water produced on the National Forest.
- The Environmental Education project will help to explain ecosystems and
species relationships to tomorrow's users of the National Forest.
- The Community and National Forest Beautification projects will foster
good working relationships between diverse groups and organizations and
will help individuals to take pride in their community.
AmeriCorps members will be recruited from urban and rural areas by news
releases, recruitment announcements at universities and vocational schools,
and job services organizations. Announcements will stress that AmeriCorps
is a service program open to all applicants regardless of race, sex, age,
education, or physical ability.
The AmeriCorps staff will be recruited from Forest Service personnel who
have an interest in working with Human Resource Programs. The Camp
Director position will require an individual with organizational skills and
experience. In order to give AmeriCorps members a broad understanding of
natural resource management and different ecosystems, Field Supervisors
will be recruited from personnel with different educations, backgrounds,
and work experience.
Partners identified for this proposal include Laurel, Rockcastle and Rowan
County Governments, Kentucky Department of Adult Literacy, Laurel County
Board of Education, Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation, Eastern
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42%
Kentucky University, Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife, The Nature
Conservancy, and the Whitley and Laurel County Tourist Commissions.
II.
OBJECTIVE STATEMENT
Our objectives are as follows:
-To perform work that will conserve, restore, and sustain natural habitats
for Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive species.
-To maintain, improve, and construct recreation facilities to benefit users
of the National Forest System.
-To assist the local communities through involvement in environmental
education outreach and community beautification projects.
-To assist in restoring natural beauty in the National Forests and assist
in disaster recovery efforts and fire suppression when requested.
COMPONENTS OF OBJECTIVE STATEMENT
A)
What work will be done? What service will your members engage in?
Members will work in support of Threatened and Endangerd Species
habitat enhancement and evaluation on the London, Somerset, and
Stearns Ranger Districts for Red-Cockaded Woodpecker and Blackside
Dace. The work would include the following:
- Prescribed burning will be done on 6,000 acres on the London,
Somerset, and Stearns Ranger Districts to maintain, and increase
suitable Red-Cockaded Woodpecker habitat by removing undesireable
vegetation and to maintain an open stand to facilitate foraging.
- Surveys will be conducted on 4,000 acres on the London, Somerset,
and Stearns Ranger Districts to determine unlocated Red-Cockaded
Woodpecker colonies, potential new colony sites, new colony sites
established by juvenile females leaving existing colonies, suitable
habitat, and habitat enhancement needs.
- Artificial Red-Cockaded Woodpecker cavities will be placed at
suitable locations on the Stearns Ranger District to prepare sites for
juvenile females leaving the existing colonies.
- Surveys will be conducted on streams on the London, Somerset, and
Stearns Ranger Districts that are known to contain populations of
Blackside Dace. The data collected will establish the habitat needs
of Blackside Dace and will be used to evaluate the potential of other
streams to have populations of Blackside Dace.
Members will assist in other wildlife support projects, including the
following:
- Stocking trout in designated streams (London and Stearns Districts).
- Prescribed burning will be done on 200 acres to benefit wildlife on
the Stanton District.
Members will assist in recreation facility projects, including the
following:
- A section of the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail, 4 miles
in length, will be constructed in the Milburn Hollow area (London
District).
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- A two mile section of the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail
will be reconstructed (Stearns District).
- Two timber bridges, 30 feet in length, will be constructed, one on
Clifty Trail at Sawyer Campground (Somerset District), and one on the
Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail over Whitman Branch (London
District).
- One mile of loop trail will be rehabilitated and two sets of steps
will be reconstructed at Alpine Picnic Ground (Somerset District).
AmeriCorps members will assist in watershed improvement projects,
including the following:
- Stabilize 1/2 mile of shoreline on Cave Run Lake on the Morehead
Ranger District.
- Maintain existing dams on the Stanton Ranger District by removing
woody vegetation that could cause the dam to fail.
Members will work in community outreach projects, including the
following:
- AmeriCorps members will help to expand the Cold Hill School
Environmental Education Pilot Project to other schools. Members will
assist with both classroom and outdoor environmental education
programs (London District).
- Members would remove numerous household waste dump sites that exist
around the Redbird Ranger District.
- Corps Members would assist with Laurel Lake Cleanup, a Federal Lands
Cleanup Day activity jointly sponsored by the Forest Service and local
communities (London District).
- Members will assist with National River Cleanup Week activities,
including Rockcastle River Cleanup and Cumberland Falls State Park
Cleanup.
- Members will assist in local community enhancement activities,
including Laurel County, Rockcastle County, and Rowan County Cleanup
Days.
B)
What is the hoped for result of the activities described above?
It is hoped that the projects completed by the AmeriCorps enrollees
will result in:
- Improved habitat for the Endangered Red-Cockaded Woodpecker.
- Critical resource data being collected for improved evaluation and
management of Proposed, Endangered, Threatened and Sensitive wildlife
and aquatic species.
- Improvements in the quality of recreation facilities, and in turn,
the quality of National Forest visitors' experiences.
- Fostering good working relationships and partnerships with
communities, organizations, special interest groups, and private
individuals, by working together as teams to accomplish the required
objectives.
- School children gaining environmental awareness and interest, as an
outcome of environmental education programs.
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- Enhancement of AmeriCorps members' skills, abilities, and attitudes,
including: collaborative working skills; communication and leadership
skills; positive attitude and work ethic; independent thinking and
self-directed learning; a land-use conservation ethic and stewardship
awareness; technical skills; and a sense of community service and
citizenship.
C)
How will you measure the quality of these activities?
Most activities will be measured against established and approved
standards. Program managers will review all activities in progress,
focus on objectives, and re-direct activities as necessary. Line
Officers will be responsible for accepting the quality of work
accomplishments, and will hold members accountable as part of their
performance expectations. Pre-tests and post-tests will be used to
help determine the success of environmental education programs.
D)
By what standard will you gauge success?
Success will be determined by completion of projects in a timely
manner, per established standards for quality.
E)
How many individuals will receive the benefit of the work your members
perform?
The Daniel Boone National Forest is located within a six hour drive of
23 million people. The forest hosted an estimated 5,278,000 visitors
in FY 1992. The enhancement of recreation facilities will benefit
these individuals by providing a more enjoyable recreation experience,
and benefit the local communities by increasing and enhancing the
tourism trade.
640 school children will be involved in environmental education
programs with the help of AmeriCorps enrollees.
III. COLLABORATION
Type of
Name of Contributor
Organization
Contribution
Kentucky State Department
State
High School Equivalency - GED
of Adult Education and
Literacy
Board of Education
County
Environmental Education
Laurel County
Cold Hill Pilot Project
Kentucky Highlands
State
Community Service Projects
Investment Corporation
Eastern Kentucky Univ.
State
Environmental Education
Kentucky State Department
State
Environmental Education
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of Fish & Wildlife
Project WIld Workshop
Tourist Commission
County
Community Service Projects
Laurel & Whitley Counties
The Nature Conservancy
Non-Profit
Environmental Education
County Governments
County
Community Service Projects
Laurel, Rockcastle, &
Rowan Counties
IV.
ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY
The Daniel Boone National Forest has had significant success and experience
in operating human resource programs. The Forest now operates two (2)
residential Job Corps Centers. The Forest in the past has successfully
operated residential Youth Conservation Corps Camps and Young Adult
Conservation Corps programs. The Forest currently administers a large
Senior Community Service Employment Program and hosts several other human
resource programs (Summer Youth Employment and Federal Prison Crews).
Enrollees will receive approximately eight hours of training per week over
the course of the program. Training goals will be to give enrollees a
broad understanding of natural resource management and the environment. A
GED program provided by local adult education services will be made
available to those enrollees without a high school diploma.
The AmeriCorps camp will be non-residential, operating 5 days a week, from
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. daily. This camp will be a Forest level project.
The program manager will be the District Ranger. The participants will be
supervised by a qualified staff.
The following is a chart of the organization:
Program Manager GS/13
Camp Director GS/11
Field Supervisor
Field Supervisor
Field Supervisor
Field Supervisor
GS/5
GS/5
GS/5
GS/5
5 AmeriCorps
5 AmeriCorps
5 AmeriCorps
5 AmeriCorps
Enrollees
Enrollees
Enrollees
Enrollees
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V.
INNOVATION AND REPLICABILITY
This project will explore several innovations related to education, and
community service. These concepts were developed as a result of our unique
situation and may or may not be able to used by programs in other areas.
A)
Educational Sharing
Enrollees will be working with professionals in the field of resource
management. Through this process, as well as a formal training
program, they will be learning how resource management can improve our
forests. They will then have an opportunity to share their
experiences with others by acting as group leaders for an
environmental education pilot project. That project began last year
with one school. The use of AmeriCorps members will allow the Forest
Service to expand this much needed program to other local schools.
Trained volunteers will continue the program if and when AmeriCorps
assistance is no longer available.
The enrollees will also be sharing with each other. Enrollees with
advanced degrees will be expected to donate time to assist others who
are working on attaining their GEDs. The Kentucky Department of Adult
Education and Literacy has assured us that students will be able to
continue work on their GEDs during the time that the camp is closed.
Participants will be working with a prison crew from the federal
correctional institution in Manchester, KY on several projects. This
will provide enrollees with a chance to learn from the prisoner's
unique experiences within the prison community. All members of the
work crew are screened and closely supervised.
B) Community Involvement
While the Forest Service has always been involved in the affairs of
the community, the AmeriCorps program will allow the agency to take a
more active role in these activities. AmeriCorps members will be
involved in several community clean-up and beautification projects.
Most of these community projects are on going.
VI.
RECRUITMENT PLAN
The recruitment plan for this project will be designed to meet three
primary objectives. Following is a summary of those objectives and the
means by which they will be achieved.
A)
Locate and enroll participants that have a strong desire to serve the
community.
1)
All recruiting announcements will stress that this is a SERVICE
PROGRAM and that participants are making a commitment for a
specific period of time.
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2) The interview process for prospective candidates will include a
discussion about what the applicant believes he or she will be
able to contribute to the community.
3) All reference to reimbursement will stress that participants will
receive stipends and grants; not salaries.
B) Locate and enroll participants with diverse backgrounds.
Recruitment efforts will emphasize the fact that the AmeriCorps
program is open to all regardless of their race, gender or income.
Candidates with physical disabilities will be evaluated solely on
their ability to accomplish the work that needs to be completed.
Enrollees who need to relocate for the program will be given
information on local housing.
1)
Geographic Diversity will be achieved by:
using statewide print and electronic media to recruit potential
enrollees from Tennessee and Kentucky.
using the national recruitment pool to locate potential
enrollees.
using the job services in Tennessee and Kentucky to advertise the
program.
2) Racial/Cultural Diversity will be achieved by:
recruiting from both rural areas and large urban areas such as
Lexington, Louisville, and Northern Kentucky (Cincinnati).
sending recruitment announcements and press releases to print and
electronic media that target minority audiences in Lexington,
Louisville, Cincinnati, and Knoxville.
sending recruitment announcements to colleges, universities and
vocational schools throughout Kentucky.
making sure that organizations and agencies that work with
minority populations are aware of the program. These will include
but are not limited to the Lexington Urban League, Lexington
Micro-city Government, Mayor's Training Center in Lexington, and
Louisville Equal Opportunity Commission.
3)
Educational Diversity will be achieved by:
sending recruitment announcements to both colleges and vocational
schools.
publishing recruitment announcements in the state Department of
Education adult education newsletter. This publication reaches
GED teachers throughout the state.
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making sure that the program provides a continuing education plan
that takes into account each participant's current level of
education.
C)
Recruit and enroll participants with the skills needed to accomplish
the job.
Due to the nature of the work that is to be accomplished, it will be
necessary to recruit individuals that either have, or are capable of
acquiring, skills related to the outdoors, construction, education and
resource management.
1)
The type of work that enrollees will be involved in will be
discussed during the interview process and candidates will be
rated on their willingness to learn new skills.
2)
Recruitment announcements will be sent to colleges and trade
schools that have curriculums related to the above areas of
expertise.
3)
Trade and professional organizations will be made aware of the
AmeriCorps program.
Recruitment Time Line:
APRIL 15, 1995
Begin internal recruitment for Camp Director position
JUNE
1, 1995
Director hired
JUNE 15, 1995
Begin recruitment of enrollees and staff
AUGUST 1, 1995
All staff and field supervisors hired
Begin interviews for AmeriCorps members
AUGUST 15, 1995
AmeriCorps members selected
VII. WORKPLAN AND MILESTONE SCHEDULE
A)
Threatened and Endangered Species Projects
1)
Red Cockaded Woodpecker
Surveys will be conducted on 4,000 acres on the London, Somerset,
and Stearns Ranger Districts to determine unlocated RCW colonies,
new colony sites from relocated juvenile females, suitable
habitat, and habitat enhancement needs. Survey would consist of
running transects through pine and pine/hardwood stands looking
for indicators of RCW activity.
6,400 Hours
Scheduled dates: May 1 - June 30, 1996.
Prescribed burning will be done on 6,000 acres on the London,
Somerset, and Stearns Ranger Districts to maintain, and increase
suitable habitat by removing undesireable vegetation and to
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maintain an open stand to facilitate RCW foraging. Corps Members
will construct hand firelines at pre determined locations and
assist in holding operations during helicopter ignition burning.
Corps Members may also assist with burning on smaller areas.
5,000 Hours
Scheduled dates: March 15 - April 30, 1996.
Artificial cavity placement will be done on the Stearns Ranger
District to prepare sites for juvenile females leaving existing
colony sites. Few of the large Short-leaf pines present in the
RCW habitat have heart rot, which makes it difficult for the RCW
to develop their own cavities. Corps Members will transport
equipment to and from the selected tree and assist in installing
the artificial cavity.
400 Hours
Scheduled dates: October 15 - November 1, 1995
2)
Blackside Dace
Surveys will be conducted on streams on the London, Somerset, and
Stearns Ranger Districts that are known to contain populations of
Blackside Dace. AmeriCorps Members will take measurements of
stream width, depth, water temperatures, bank vegetation, stream
structure, and other pertinent data. The information collected
will be used by the Forest Fisheries Biologist to determine
blackside dace habitat requirements. Using the developed habitat
requirements, the Fisheries Biologist will analyze future stream
surveys to determine if the stream has the potential to contain
Blackside Dace. If analysis indicates that the stream may
contain Blackside Dace, the Fisheries Biologist will schedule it
for electro-sampling.
800 Hours
Scheduled dates: October 1 - October 30, 1995
B) Recreation Facility Construction/Reconstruction
1) Sheltowee Trace Relocation
The Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail was named for
Daniel Boone who gained the name Sheltowee or "Big Turtle" after
being captured by the Shawnee Indians in 1778. Chief Black Fish
adopted Boone and named him "Sheltowee". The Trace follows some
of the trails Boone used while exploring Kentucky. Some of the
current locations of the Sheltowee Trace NRT are on secondary
roads and need to be relocated from these roads in order to
create a more challenging experience and to bring sections up to
standard.
AmeriCorps Members will relocate and construct segments of the
Sheltowee Tract NRT currently located on roads on the London and
Stearns Ranger Districts. The work would consist of using hand
tools to remove vegetation and constructing the trail according
to typical sections.
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The segment on the London Ranger District is located adjacent to
Wildcat Mountain and would remove 2 miles of the Sheltowee Trace
from county road 737. The new location would be within Milburn
Hollow, between County Road 736 and Happy Hollow. Approximately
4 miles of trail would be constructed.
The segment on the Stearns Ranger District is located between the
Tennessee line and Great Meadow Campground. Segments within this
4 mile section would be reconstructed to bring them up to
standard. Approximately 2 miles of trail would be reconstructed.
7,200 Hours
Scheduled Dates: July 1 - August 31, 1996
2) Trail Bridge Replacement
AmeriCorps Members will construct trail bridges on the Clifty
Trail on the Somerset Ranger District and on the Sheltowee Trace
NRT across Whitman Branch on the London Ranger District. Work
would consist of removing the existing bridge, transporting
bridge material to the site, and constructing the bridge using
standard plans. Bridge stringers will consist of 3 laminated
pressure treated southern yellow pine 3" X 12" with an estimated
weight per stringer of 300 pounds. All wood would be pressure
treated southern yellow pine.
800 Hours
Scheduled Dates: August 1 - August 15, 1996
3) Developed Site Rehabilitation
AmeriCorp Members will replace the steps to the toilets in Alpine
Picnic Ground. The work would consist of removing the existing
steps, transporting material to the site, and constructing steps
according to standard plans. In addition, heavy maintenance of
the trail system will be conducted. The heavy maintenance would
consist of brushing, cross ditch maintenance, and tread
rehabilitaion.
800 Hours
Scheduled Dates: August 15, 1996
C) Environmental Education
The London Ranger District is currently developing and implementing a
natural resources education curriculum for 640 fourth grade students
enrolled in the Laurel County School System. The curriculum is being
developed with and tested on three classes of fourth grade students at
Cold Hill Elementary School. The programs include the relationship of
plants and animals with their habitat, basic plant physiology, and how
to identify plants and animals.
AmeriCorps members will be used to expand the Cold Hill Pilot Project
to other schools. Members will assist with both classroom and outdoor
environmental education programs. They will be involved in teaching
and program development. As outdoor leaders they will be responsible
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for a group of 6-10 students. They will help the students complete
learning tasks as outlined in a detailed lesson plan.
2,000 Hours
Scheduled Dates:
October 1 - November 30, 1995
March 1 - September 10, 1996
D) Community Enhancement
Corps Members would remove numerous family dump sites that exist on
the Redbird Ranger District. Historically local families have
disposed of household waste by dumping it in remote areas. These dump
sites have since been acquired by the National Forest and should be
removed to increase the quality of water being produced on the
National Forest.
800 Hours
Scheduled Dates: November 15 - November 30 (Redbird)
Corps Members would assist in removing trash from the shoreline of
Laurel River Lake, the Cumberland River, and the Rockcastle River to
maintain their scenic beauty and reduce potential degradation of the
water quality.
1,200 Hours
Scheduled Dates: To Be Scheduled
E) Watershed Improvement
Corps Members would help stabilize 1/2 mile of shoreline on Cave Run
Lake on the Morehead Ranger District. The work would consist of hand
placing rip rap at pre-selected points along the lake shore where
recent high water and wave action has undercut the banks. This work
will help to maintain Cave Run Lake's high quality water.
1,100 Hours
Scheduled Dates: August 15 - August 30, 1996
Corps Members would maintain exisitng dams on the Stanton Ranger
District. The work would consist of using hand tools to remove woody
vegetation that could cause the dam to fail. This work is necessary
to protect water quality.
800 Hours
Scheduled Dates: August 15 - August 30, 1996
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APPENDIX B
Budget Narrative
1) PARTICIPANT SUPPORT COSTS
a) Training and Education
Training will be provided by 1) Forest Service professionals and
technicians 2) community specialists and 3) local agencies
providing adult education and GED services.
b) Uniforms
Costs include uniforms, boots, hardhats, eye protection and
gloves. Other specialized safety equipment will be provided by
the benefiting project.
2) STAFF
Staffing needs funded by Forest Service matching funds are shown on
the detailed budget worksheet. Personal benefits and training are
included in the staffing costs estimates.
3) OPERATIONAL
a) Travel
Reflects per diem travel cost for the Program Manager and Camp
Director at $1000/ea = $2000.
b) Transportation
Four each crew carrying vehicles 6 passenger pickups.
FOR - $251/mo x 9 mo = 2259 x 4 =
9040
EOR - $.12/mi x 9 mo mi = 1080 x 4 = 4320
One each administrative vehicle
FOR 200/mi x 10 mo =
2000
EOR $.10/mi x 10 mo mi =
1000
$16360
c) Supplies
-Project Supply/Tools
All project supplies and tools will be provided by the District
benefiting from the project.
d) Building Renovation
Renovate Baldrock Conservation Camp Administrative Office to meet
administration needs of the Camp Director @ $1200.
e) Utilities
The following are estimated utility costs for the Baldrock
Conservation Camp. 15% of the total utilities will be attributed
to AmeriCorps.
Telephone
Electric (Jackson Co RECC) ) 1200/mo x 12 x .15 = $2160
West Laurel Water
Garbage Service
f) Communications
Five ea mobile radios @ 500 ea =
$2500
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g) Postage
$23 postage/enrollee x 20 enrollees = $460
4)
INTERNAL MONITORING
$100/enrollee x 20 =
$2000
5)
ADMINISTRATION
Computer for Baldrock Conservation Camp
$1500
terminal, keyboard, printer, modem
Copy Machine
600
Office Supplies
1000
FAX Machine
600
Miscellaneous costs
5000
$8700
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NATIONAL FORESTS IN NORTH CAROLINA
AMERICORPS
FULL PROPOSAL REVISED
FY 1996
PROJECT TITLE:
Natural Environment Ecosystem Management
ADDRESS:
National Forests in North Carolina
P.O. Box 2750
Asheville, North Carolina 28802
LOCATION OF PROJECTS:
Projects will be located on selected Ranger
Districts located on the National Forests
in North Carolina.
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT:
11th Congressional District
ADDITIONAL DISTRICTS:
1st Congressional District, 3rd Congressional
District, 5th Congressional District, 7th
Congressional District, 10th Congressional District
PROJECT:
Rural and Urban
CNCS PRIORITY AREAS:
The counties in which these Districts are located
suffer unemployment rates higher than the national
average, with Graham County experiencing a 24%
unemployment rate.
PROJECT START DATE:
September 5,1995
PROJECT COMPLETION DATE:
September 30,1996
FULL-TIME MEMBERS:
30
PART-TIME MEMBERS:
0
PERSON SUBMITTING PROPOSAL: Fred Foster
ADDRESS:
P.O. Box 2750
Asheville, North Carolina 28802
TELEPHONE NUMBER:
704/257-4262
FAX NUMBER:
704/257-4804
DG ADDRESS:
F.Foster: R08F11A
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OBJECTIVE STATEMENT
The National Forests in North proposes an Americorps program that will include
30 full-time members. The selected members will perform projects on public
lands to conserve, restore, and maintain habitats within various ecosystems.
To construct, refurbish, and improve recreational facilities including picnic
sites, camp sites, trails, access points, and other projects that will
significantly benefit the users of public lands (National Forests, National
Parks, and city and county government public lands). The members will perform
projects that will improve the habitat for Threatened, Endangered, and
Sensitive species. They will assist in improving forest health and maintaining
forest ecosystems by thinning, planting, and restoration. The members will
assist in forest firefighting on an as-needed basis and other crucial efforts
as requested. Our program will offer these members an opportunity to receive
an environmental education.
Through this program, we will improve the quality of the experiences our
recreational visitors receive while visiting our National Forests. Many of our
facilities are in need of repair and refurbishing. Our program will teach our
youth a sense of volunteerism, pride, and community spirit. It will also help
these young people to understand the impact that more than 39,000,000 visitors
have on the National Forests in North Carolina and our facilities each year.
We will develop greater working relationships with the private sector,
volunteer groups, and special interest groups.
The work accomplished by these Americorps members will benefit millions of
forest users, local communities, adults and children through the use of
recreational facilities, such as, picnic areas, camp sites, historical sites,
hiking trails, bike trails, ORV trails, and wilderness areas. These members
will be able to return to these sites at a later date, after their Americorps
service, to see the benefit of their service and the enjoyment provided to
millions of forest visitors.
The program will also generate increased income to local communities by
attracting more visitors with the improved facilities and through the
additional expenditures of member salaries.
Members will perform approximately 51,000 hours of work and training during the
coming year. Members, with the assistance of their educational grant, will
have an opportunity to pursue their GED, attend college, or even technical
school. In many instances, this will be the only opportunity some of these
young people may have to obtain a chance for higher education.
Our project list includes:
1. TRAIL CONSTRUCTION
Crews will construct 35 miles of trail
through various terrains.
Construct 35 miles of trail
CNTR
Hours of Work 14,200
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2. TRAIL MAINTENANCE
Crews will perform needed maintenance
on 275 miles of trail.
Maintain 275 miles of trail
NFRM
Hours of Work - 11,000
3. RECREATION MANAGEMENT
Crews will rehabilitate 25 campsites,
construct 25 campsites, rehabilitate
40 picnic sites, repair 1,000 feet of
boardwalk.
Maintain/construct 90 structures/sites
NFRM
Hours of Work - 1,700
4. THORNBURG HOUSE - HISTORICAL SITE
Crews will renovate the Thornburg House,
which is a historical site.
Renovate 1 historical site
NFRM
Hours of Work - 400
WILDLIFE HABITAT IMPROVEMENTS
Crews will develop 24 acres for local
wildlife feeding by seeding and planting
desirable vegetation.
24 acres of Wildlife Habitat Imp. NFWL
Hours of Work - 1,440
5. LANDLINE MAINTENANCE
Crews will rework 68 miles of landlines
by scraping and painting boundary trees.
68 miles of landlines
NFLL
Hours of Work - 5,775
6. ROAD MAINTENANCE
Crews will clean culverts on 10 miles
of Forest Service roads.
10 miles of road maintenance
NFRD
Hours of Work -
400
7. WILDERNESS MANAGEMENT
Crews will rehabilitate 20 campsites.
Rehabilitate 20 campsites
NFMM
Hours of Work -
400
8. INLAND FISH OPERATIONS
Crews will maintain 15 fish structures.
Maintain 15 fish structures
NFIF
Hours of Work -
200
9. INLAND FISH OPERATIONS
Crews will construct and install 25
fish structures.
Construct/install 25 structures
NFIF
Hours of Work -
250
10. TIMBER STAND IMPROVEMENT
Crews will provide improvements on
20 acres of young timber stands.
20 acres of timber stand improve. NFFV
Hours of Work - 1,750
11. REFORESTATION
Crews will replant 55 acres.
55 acres of reforestation
NFFV
Hours of Work - 2,885
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12. RANGE VEGETATION MANAGEMENT
Crews will measure vegetation on 20
acres of Songbird Monitoring Project.
20 acres of vegetation management NFRV
Hours of Work -
700
13. SOIL/WATERSHED IMPROVEMENTS
Crews will provide necessary soil and
erosion control methods on 24 acres.
24 acres of soil/watershed imp.
NFSI
Hours of Work - 2,675
14. TIMBER
Crews will complete pre-commercial
thinning on 10 acres.
10 acres of thinning
CWKV
Hours of Work -
550
TOTAL HOURS OF WORK: 87%
44,325
TRAINING/EDUCATION: 13%
6,675
WORK AND ALL OTHER ACTIVITIES: 100%
51,000
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SUMMARY
Through the Forest Service heritage of "Caring for the Land and Serving the
People", the Americorps community service program will provide vast
opportunities for our young people and older adults to enhance the natural
resources within the Forest, as well as, on adjoining public and private
lands. The Americorps members will receive quality educational experiences and
opportunities while serving in the Americorps program. We will provide the
members with an initial orientation and training prior to starting work on
projects. Specific training will be required throughout the program to meet
the needs of the projects. The members' personal skills will be increased
through additional training, which will include team work, communication, and
leadership. Each Americorps member will receive formal training in safety,
first-aid, CPR, and environmental awareness topics. Americorps members will
receive hands-on training in forest ecology and ecosystem management.
Improving the National Forests has a positive impact on the adjoining
communities since much of the tourism business in the communities is generated
by the National Forests attracting visitors to the communities.
The National Forests in North Carolina is comprised of four National Forests,
the Pisgah, Nantahala, Uwharrie, and Croatan. The NFsNC covers 2,953,702
acres.
We hope to sustain the funding after Americorps thru Challenge Cost Share
Agreements and community support.
Program recruitment will be through local colleges, high schools, Cherokee
Indian Reservation, and local media in areas where projects are to be located.
COLLABORATION:
Much of the collaboration will be in-kind contributions from the vast number of
volunteers that the National Forests in North Carolina has been able to
assemble throughout the years. Not only does the Forest have one of the
largest volunteer groups in the the Forest Service, but we have strong
grassroots support from local communities around our Forest land.
Prospective Americorps Partners
National Forests in North Carolina
Federal, USDA
Primary Partner
Pisgah National Forest
Federal, USDA
Primary Partner
Nantahala National Forest
Federal, USDA
Primary Partner
Uwharrie National Forest
Federal, USDA
Primary Partner
Croatan National Forest
Federal, USDA
Primary Partner
Blue Ridge Parkway
Federal, USDI
Secondary Partner
Eastern Band of Cherokees
Secondary Partner
Graham County Chamber of Commerce
County
Secondary Partner
We currently have one Americorps member working with the Eastern Band of
Cherokees under the Rural Development Americorps Program.
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ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY:
National Forests Personnel Information:
The key staff on the National Forests in North Carolina that will be involved
with this Americorps Program will be the Project Coordinator and 2 Manpower
Development Specialists in the Human Resource Programs unit.
The Project Coordinator will oversee the entire Americorps Program.
The two Manpower Development Specialists will be working with each unit to
ensure that projects are being accomplished and that training is taking place.
These Manpower Development Specialists will also trouble shoot any programmatic
problems that arise. These staff will also oversee the overall budget of the
program.
Each Ranger District involved will plan and implement projects that have been
previously listed.
Business Managers on the Districts will handle the on-site administrative
tasks.
A Crew Supervisor will lead the members on all projects. He/she is responsible
for the members well-being on the work-site, as well as, any training or
equipment each member may need.
Forest staff, such as, Wildlife Biologists, various Recreation specialists, and
Timber specialists will provide direct support and assistance to crews on a
routine basis.
STRENGTHS
The National Forests in North Carolina has been involved with Human Resource
Programs and volunteers for many years. We have one of the largest volunteer
groups in the Forest Service. We currently have 5,839 volunteers on the
National Forests in North Carolina. The Forest has also been involved with the
Americorps Program this year through the Rural Development Program.
INNOVATION AND REPLICABILITY
This proposal is innovative in that it brings young people from various ethnic
and socioeconomic backgrounds together to work side-by-side on public and
private lands The diversity in this group will represent a true picture of
American society. This program will instill a sense of leadership,
volunteerism, and community pride in each Americorps member.
BENEFITS
Members will be paid for 40 hours of work per week. Education awards will be
available for those members who satisfactorily complete the one year program.
Members will be selected from counties which surround the selected Ranger
Districts on the National Forests in North Carolina.
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LENGTH OF PROGRAM CYCLE
The program cycle is one year. Each member must perform a minimum of 1700
hours work and training.
TRAINING
Before each project, a Forest staff and the Crew Supervisor will explain the
type of work to be performed, the significance of the job, and the benefit to
the community. Forest personnel will teach the members forest ecology and
ecosystem management techniques. The members will also receive training in
chain saw operation, safety, first-aid, CPR, defensive driving, communication
skills, leadership, and team work.
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
The work component will benefit the community and the entire country in the
improvement of accessibility, physical appearance, beautification of public
lands, and eventual increased income.
EVALUATION/MONITORING ACTIVITIES
The Project Coordinator and the 2 Manpower Development Specialists will
evaluate and monitor the progress of the program by the measurement of target
accomplishments. Another evaluation factor will be the effectiveness of the
projects in conjunction with the fact that young people from various ethnic and
socioeconomic backgrounds have come together to solve a common problem or
concern, which in turn, will benefit each community. The experiences of the
Americorps members will be used as an evaluation tool. Members will be
encouraged to express their feelings and talk about their experiences while in
the program.
DETAILED RECRUITMENT PLAN
Members will be recruited from counties which surround each of our selected
Ranger Districts. These counties are economically depressed. Our intent is to
structure our crews with young people from various ethnic and socioeconomic
backgrounds. These crews will perform projects that will not only serve the
local community, but the entire country in conserving our natural environment.
We anticipate that our crews will be comprised of:
50% male
50% female and/or minority
Our selected Districts are located among large populations of
African-Americans, Native Americans, Asians, and Hispanics.
All of our members will be full-time. Recruitment will be done by radio and
television public service announcements, newspaper, through local high schools
and colleges, word-of-mouth, and visits to local minority organizations.
Members will be selected by each Ranger District with input from the Project
Coordinator and 2 Manpower Development Specialists. Selection will be based on
a variety of factors, however, the key factor will be need and a strong desire
to participate in the Americorps Program.
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DETAILED MILESTONES
The National Forests in North Carolina proposal will satisfy a national
priority designated by the Corporation for National Service: Natural
Environment. The National Forests in North Carolina is comprised of 4 forests:
Pisgah National Forest, Nantahala National Forest, Croatan National Forest, and
the Uwharrie National Forest. Two of these Forests are located in the western
part of the state, one in mid-state and one in the eastern part of the state.
The Forest, as a whole, hosts better than 39,000,000 visitors each year. Many
of our Ranger Districts are located in counties that are economically
depressed. These crews can assist in public lands management and at the same
time learn valuable lessons about life, working with various people from
different backgrounds, the outdoors, and the conservation of our natural
resource environment.
PROGRAM DESIGN
The National Forests in North Carolina program is a year-round, non-residential
program designed to work with economically and educationaly disadvantaged
people of all ages. Evaluations will be a joint effort by both the Crew
Supervisor and Forest staff.
This program design will allow us to hold regular meetings for Members to
exchange experiences and to receive training in a group setting. Meetings will
be rotated from unit to unit, with members from other units getting a chance to
see a different unit and experience more of the Forest and Forest Service.
TYPICAL WORK DAY
0730
- Report for work
0730 - 0800 - Tailgate safety training and daily project briefing
0800 - 0815 - Travel to work site
0815 - 1200 - Work on assigned project for the day
1200 - 1230 - Lunch
1230 - 1545 - Continue work on assigned project for the day
1545 - 1600 - Return to District Work Center
1600
- End of day
DETAILED WORKPLAN
OBJECTIVE
TIME FRAME
Recruitment - outreach to communities, media
May - August, 1995
Procure supplies/equipment
August, 1995
Interviews
August, 1995
Selection of Members
August 18,1995
Plan launch activities
August, 1995
Members report
September 5, 1995
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Orientation and Training for Members
September 5-15,1995
Start Work Projects
September 18,1995
Program Evaluation Report
December 15,1995
Program Evaluation Report
March 15,1996
Program Evaluation Report
June 15,1996
Completion of Projects
September 15,1996
Program Evaluation
September 29,1996
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THE GREATER JACKSON YOUTH SERVICE CORPS
"PUBLIC LAND AND ENVIRONMENT CORPS"
517 North Farish Street
Jackson, Mississippi 39202
Congressional Districts of 1 and 3 which includes
Hinds, Scott, Jasper, Newton and Smith Counties
This project serves youth from both rural and urban settings
The National priority to be addressed
includes the environment
The GJYSC headquarters is also located
in an Enterprise Community
20 Fulltime members
PROPOSAL SUBMITTED BY:
THE GREATER JACKSON YOUTH SERVICE CORPS
517 NORTH FARISH STREET
JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI 39202
(601) 353-1311 FAX (601) 353-0423
Contact Persons: Alfred L. Martin, Executive Director
Janice Tillman, Deputy Director
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2. OBJECTIVE STATEMENT:
The Public Land and Environment Corps will work in the Bienville National Park
performing various works on public land. The Greater Jackson Youth Service
Corps operated a public land corps during the 1994-1995 year and will complete
a wide variety of similar projects over the 1995-1996 program year. The corps
operates with 20 fulltime corpsmembers. The project is designed to serve one
key mission:
*) To offer young people from totally different backgrounds an opportunity to
serve and work side-by-side on public lands performing such activities as trail
maintenance, endangered species, pine thinning, trail maintenance and other
related projects
Our desire is to help meet many of the avaliable projects in the forest. While
not displacing any workers, the corps is committed to making these public lands
respectively assessable while educating the members during the actual work
phases.
Corpsmembers will perform approximately 34,000 hours of work and training over
the year performing forest service projects. Corpsmembers will also have the
opportunity receive GED's, go to college, or even professional school. In
return, they will receive a stipend of $4,725 in post service benefits. More
important, they should develop a sense of volunteerism and community pride.
The work includes:
1. RED-COCKADED WOODPECKER (RCW) HABITAT IMPROVEMENT.
The Red-Cockaded Woodpecker is an endangered species. There are 91 colonies
located in the District. Improvements will be made in three phases:
*
A) RCW Survey Work of 13,000 acres which involves locating signs
of RCW cluster activity.
*
B) RCW Monumentation Work of 200 acres which involves painting
and signing cluster perimeters.
*
C) RCW Midstory Work of 100 acres which is the removal of
midstory vegetation from RCW clusters.
NFTE:
Hours of Work - 11450
2. BIENVILLE SCENIC PINE TRAIL.
Crews will recondition and repair a 1.8-mile
hiking trail that goes through a virgin stand
of Loblolly Pine. Also, make the trail more
accessible for the physically disabled.
NFRM:
Hours of Work - 800
3. SHOCKALOE HORSE TRAIL.
The Corps will perform light brushing and
maintenance of this 23-mile horse/hiking trail.
NFRM:
Hours of Work 2100
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4. OGLETHORPE OAK RESTORATION.
Crews will obtain advanced regeneration of
283 acres of Oglethorpe Oak through removal
of competing overstory vegetation.
NFTI:
Hours of Work - 2200
5. WILDLIFE HABITAT IMPROVEMENTS.
Crews will develop 10 acres of food plots
for local wildlife population by seeding
and planting desirable grasses.
NFWL:
Hours of Work -
600
6. LANDLINE MAINTENANCE.
The Corps will refurbish 15 miles of landlines
by blazing, scraping, and painting boundary trees
NFLL:
Hours of Work - 1800
7. CURVE DAYLIGHTING/ROAD MAINTENANCE.
There are numerous blind curves that require
brush to be cut and removed to allow the public
to travel these Forest Service roads safely.
NFRD:
Hours of Work - 2000
8. TIMBER STAND IMPROVEMENT.
Pre-commercial thinning of 50 acres of young
pine stands through removal of excess stems
using brushing blades.
NFTI:
Hours of Work - 2000
9. RECREATION MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENT.
Crews will perform routine maintenance and
upgrading of existing facilities at Shockaloe's
Base Camps and the District's other recreational
facilities. Construction of camping pad at Base
Camp I (handicap accessible) Marathon recreation
Trail, Shongelo Recreation Trail,
Cohay Demostration Trail, 2.3miles.
NFRM:
Hours of Work - 2,050
Total Hours of Work:
80%
25,000
Training/Education:
20%
6,000
Work and All Other Activities:
100%
34,400
3. SUMMARY:
With the success of the 1994 - 1995 Public Lands Corps, The Greater Jackson
Youth Service Corps (GJYSC) plans to again recruit twenty (20) participants in
two Public Lands and Environmental Crews. These crews will implement and
continue projects that will improve, conserve, and restore public lands,
particularly the Bienville National Forest.
The GJYSC Public Lands Crews will work with the national forest personnel, to
perform many very important and urgent conservation projects essential to the
entire Southern portion of the country. The Bienville National Forest staff,
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along with the GJYSC staff, developed essential key natural environmental
projects which were listed above.
The GJYSC will strategically recruit a diverse (gender, race, geographical,
economic, and educational) group of twenty (20) corpsmembers, to be teamed into
two separate crews. The GJYSC will handle all administrative and programmatic
duties. Two Crew leaders and their crews will work with the Bienville National
Forest personnel, performing these projects. GJYSC Youth Development Department
will be responsible for all educational matters and post-placement, including,
but not limited to, G.B.D. testing, college preparation, and entrance.
Corpsmembers without G.E.D.s will be required to work toward it for no less
than 9 hours a week. The corpsmembers will also receive valuable pre-employment
work maturity classes and basic life skills training, and upon completion of
the program, post-placement will occur. The Corps' Post-Placement Coordinator
will work to place all graduates in related jobs, or in school (vocational,
two-year, or four-year). The primary partner is the USDA Bienville National
Forest. The District Ranger, Bris Price, and his staff have worked very closely
with the Corps to develop service projects and have pledged their full support.
Matching funds of 25% is being brought in from contributions and foundations,
in-kind, local and other outlets. The funding mix is crucial to the success of
this project.
4. COLLABORATION:
The Public Land corps has formed a strong yet growing group of partners. They
include the Scott County board of Supervisors, Sara Lee Corporation, Scott
County Bank, Roosevelt State Park, East Central Community Action Agency. Most
recently, the corps has begun talks with the National Forest Foundation and is
scheduling talks with Georgia Pacific and the National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation. Their roles include technical, financial, and evaluation
assistance.
5. ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY:
GJYSC Personnel Information:
(a) Principal Staff:
The key staff of the Corps includes: Executive Director, Deputy Director,
Project Coordinator, Crew Supervisor, Grant Monitor, Youth Development
Coordinator, Post-Placement Coordinator, and Accountant.
The Executive Director oversees the entire operation of the GJYSC. He
establishes goals and objectives for each of its programs, and provides overall
coordination with funding sources, work sponsors and youth agencies.
The Deputy Director is responsible for the day-to-day fiscal management,
contract negotiations and grant management. She also oversees all clerical
functions staff and provides clerical and program support. In the absence of
the Executive Director, she serves in that capacity.
The Project Coordinator is responsible for planning and implementing projects
for the Public Land Corps. He handles all on-site administrative tasks. He
also acts as a Crew Supervisor at times.
The Crew Supervisor leads the corpsmembers on all projects. He is responsible
for the corpsmembers well-being on the work-site, as well as, the training or
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equipment each member may need. He reports directly to the Project
Coordinator.
The Grant Monitor observes the project and reports directly to the Executive
Director on the problems and successes of the program. It is their
responsibility to be sure the program is keeping with grant compliance. The
monitor also works with the Deputy Director and Book Keeper on the fiscal
management of the program.
The Youth Development Coordinator works with the members to provide adequate
educational training. She also plans educational outings and provides
motivational speakers for the corps.
The Recruiter/Post-Placement Coordinator monitors each member in the program to
find out their educational and employment needs at the end of their service
year. He is responsible for providing job placement assistance and college
preparation, entrance criteria, financial aid, testing and any other area
necessary. Also, assist with trade school enrollment.
The Accountant handles all fiscal matters for the program. She is responsible
for payables, cash request, invoicing, financial report generating, etc.
(b) Institutional Strengths:
Currently, the GJYSC is operating on a USDA/AmeriCorps Grant as well as various
other federal, state, and local grants. Also, the Corps has established solid
relationships with various foundations and private contributors. The Corps has
been in existence since 1990 and is very familiar with procedures relevant to
administration of federal funds. The Corps' staff is very diversified and is no
doubt the key reason the Corps has been able to address the needs of the
community in the manner it has.
6. INNOVATION AND REPLICABILITY:
This program is innovative in that it brings together young people from an
urban/inner city setting with young people from a rural background. These
participants who represent a true picture of America, work side-by-side
addressing many available needs of public land. As important, character,
leadership, volunteerism, and a sense of community is instilled into the
corpsmembers.
Benefits:
Corpsmembers will be paid for 30 hours a week of work. 10 hours per week will
serve as voluntary service hours. Primary post-service benefits include:
*
Receive a living stipend of $7,000 per program year.
*
(*) Education award of Approximately $4,725.00
*
Job Placement
*
Education Counseling
(*) Educational awards will only be made available to corpsmembers who
serve the required 1700 hours of work experience and the 340 hours of
classroom/training. Participants will be selected from the Bienville
National Forest which includes (5) counties. The participants shall be
between the ages of 16 and 23 from both urban and rural counties. The
Corps has a policy of diversity including, but not limited to,
socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds.
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Number of Crews:
The Environment and Public Lands Corps shall consist of two (2) crews with the
capability of breaking into small crews depending upon the projects.
Length of Program Cycle:
The program cycle is one year. Each corpsmember must perform a minimum of 1700
hours in the Environment and Public Lands Corps. The GJYSC is committed to
continuing these type projects for an indefinite period of time.
Training:
Before each project, a Bienville National Forest representative, along with a
Corps supervisor, will explain the type of work to be performed, the
significance of the job, and the benefit to the community. The forest
personnel, will teach the corpsmembers the different types of wildlife that
live in the forest and how essential it is to protect the habitat of the
animals.
This training will be supported by slides, written material, and videos. Each
corpsmember will be given CPR Training. Additionally, the Project Coordinator
is a certified Emergency Medical Responder.
Program Structure:
The program will be structured with two components: Education and
Environmental/Conservation.
The Education Component will entail:
*
Pre-employment Work Maturity Skills
*
Life Skills Subjects (parenting skills, conservation,
environmental concerns, drug awareness, conflict resolution,
etc.)
*
College Preparation
*
Leadership Development
*
Career Planning
Work Site Ethics
*
Following Instructions
*
Correct and Timely Completion of Assignments
*
GED Attainment
The Work Component will also benefit the community and the entire country in
improvement of physical appearance and beautification of the Bienville Ranger
District.
Evaluation/Monitoring Activities:
The Corps has two types of evaluation and monitoring tools in place, one being
internal and the other from outside consultants. Internal methods are:
*
TABE (The Test of Adult Basic Education)
*
Daily Attendance
*
Cooperation
*
Volunteerism
The Corps currently uses the services of two private consultants. One primarily
evaluates the Corps' structure and staff. A second evaluates the corpsmembers
solely. Various testing and evaluation instruments are used to determine key
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personal traits, levels, and characteristics. The key evaluator will be the
effectiveness of the projects along with the fact that young people from
totally different backgrounds came together to solve a common concern, which,
in turn, benefitted the entire community.
7. DETAILED RECRUITMENT PLAN
Recruitment is a key element in the development of the Corps. Corpsmembers will
be recruited from both the inner-city and the smaller communities surrounding
the forest. These counties include: Scott, Smith, Jasper, Newton, and Hinds.
All counties are located within the 3rd Congressional District with the
exception of Hinds. Hinds County is located within the 2nd and 4th Districts.
The intent is to put together in crews, young people from varied socio-economic
backgrounds, performing conservation projects that will benefit the entire
community, as well as the state and the country. Below is an illustration of
the desired makeup of the participants:
45% African-American
45% Caucasian
*
5% Native American
*
5% Hispanic
50% Without High School Diploma
*
50% Economically Disadvantaged
*
60% No Knowledge of the Outdoors
40% With prior Knowledge of the Outdoors
20% With Past AmeriCorps Public Lands Experience (2nd Year
Participants)
The Corps will recruit 20 corpsmembers for the Public Lands Crews. All will be
full-time. Recruitment will be done by radio and television Public Service
Announcements, newspaper, through the schools, and by word of mouth.
Corpsmembers will be selected by the GJYSC Intake Committee which includes the
Executive Director, Deputy Director, Project Coordinators, Recruitment and
Education Coordinators, and Crew Supervisors. Selection will be based on a
variety of factors. However, the key factor is need and a sincere desire to be
members of the AmeriCorps family.
8. DETAILED WORKPLAN AND MILESTONES:
The Greater Jackson Youth Service Corps will satisfy two critical areas of
needs designated by the Corporation for National Service as national
priorities: Natural Environment and Education. The Bienville National Forest is
a very important part of Mississippi, as well as the southeastern portion of
the country's national forests system. Located in the central part of the
state, it is traveled by thousands each year. However, the forest has fallen
victim to overwhelming workloads and manpower shortage. In addition, the
Bienville National Forest has been consolidated, doubling its size. As a
result, there are many opportunities within the forest. Fortunately,
corpsmembers, in crews of no more than 10, once properly trained, can fill this
void and assist the forest personnel, while learning valuable lessons about the
outdoors and conservation.
While all projects are priorities for the forest, one project in particular is
crucial to the survival of the Red-Cockaded Woodpecker (RCW) population. In
1970, the RCW was declared an endangered species. It now has the same
protection given the better-known American Bald Eagle and the Whooping Crane.
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But protection alone is not enough. On Federal and State lands, eco-system
management practices are giving the birds a better chance of survival by
creating favorable habitat. Currently there are 91 colonies located in the
Forest. However, the problem is that the undergrowth and midstory vegetation
below the nests are interfering with the birds' flight path and allowing
predators to invade the nests. The GJYSC Public Lands Corps, along with the
forest's Personnel, will work together on a RCW Habitat Improvement Program.
The crews will first survey for new colonies, mark the boundaries of existing
colonies, and then perform midstory work on new and existing colonies. This
will be accomplished through the use of herbicides and hand tools.
Another key project is the Bienville Scenic Pine Trail. At 189 acres, the
scenic trail is the largest known block of residential pine timber in
Mississippi. The cover type consists of old growth Loblolly and shortleaf pines
ranging generally in age from 125 to 200 years with a dense midstory composed
primarily of young hardwoods. Along this 1.8-mile trail, you will find eight
(8) stops at points of significant interest, such as the Loblolly Prairie and
Red-Cockaded Woodpecker Colonies. Crews will do maintenance, reconditioning,
and adding clay gravel to areas of the hiking trail. Also, the crews will make
the trail more accessible for those who are physically disabled by building
ramps, bridges, benches, and stands. The crews will perform brushing
maintenance and reconditioning of 23 miles of a horse/hiking trail known as the
Shockaloe Horse Trail.
Another vital project for the Corps is the Oglethorpe Oak Restoration. The
objective is to obtain advance regeneration of the Oglethorpe Oak through
removal of competing overstory vegetation. Crews will also perform Road
Maintenance which entails daylighting and removing brush from curves on forest
service roads, thus allowing visitors to travel the roads safely. Timber Stand
Improvements and Landline Maintenance will also be performed.
Program Design:
The Greater Jackson Youth Service Corps is a year-round non-residential program
designed to work with both economically and educationally disadvantaged young
people as well as college students, graduates. Even those that come from "well
to do" backgrounds will be recruited. The corps' age range is 16 to 23. The
GJYSC Environmental and Public Lands Crew will follow all rules and guidelines
currently in place at the GJYSC. The structure will consist of a Project
Coordinator who will also serve as a Crew Supervisor, a second Crew Supervisor,
and twenty corpsmembers. Forest staff will consist of the District's Rangers,
Foresters, Biologist, and various technicians. Actual crew supervision will be
the responsibility of the Corps staff. As well, administrative matters will be
handled by the Corps. Evaluations will be a joint effort by both Corps staff
and forest staff.
Typical day Schedule
Monday
-
Friday
8:00 a.m.
-
Sign In
8:15 a.m.
-
Physical Training
8:30 a.m.
-
Transport to Work Site
8:45 a.m.
-
Work Orientation/Safety Training
9:00 a.m.
-
Work begins
12:00 p.m.
-
Lunch
12:30 p.m.
-
Resume Work
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3:30 p.m.
- Transport back to Headquarters
4:00 p.m.
-
Clean/Stow Away Equipment/Classroom Training
5:00 p.m. - End of Day
9. DETAILED BUDGET (SEE BUDGET DISKETTE FILENAME PL95FINA) :
Narrative:
Training and Education:
20 participants recruited will receive approximately $7650 for their
year of service. You will note the 15% match. This will come from
private sources.
Uniforms:
Corpsmembers will receive three uniforms. These uniforms will all have
the AmeriCorps logo as well as the parent corps.
Staff Salaries:
This includes the staff that will work directly with the Public Land
corps. Below list the amount of time the respective staff will work on
the project. The compensation will follow the same percentages:
Executive Director
35%
Project Coordinator
100%
Crew Supervisor
100%
Acct./Bookkeeper
30%
Education Coord.
30%
Grant Monitor
50%
Training:
Training includes specific wildlife, conservation and first aid
training. It also includes USDA, AmeriCorps and other relevant
training.
Travel/Transportation
The bulk of this is allocated for transporting the corpsmembers to and
from their work stations in the national forest. Corpsmembers from
Jackson will travel approximately 40 miles each way daily.
Corpsmembers living closer to the Forest will be responsible for their
own transportation. Travel also includes training travel and expenses.
Supplies and Equipment:
This includes primarily tools, belts, lumber, saws, hard hats, and any
other supplies needed to carry out the projects. There is a need for a
four wheeler, trailer, etc
BIENVILLE NATIONAL FOREST
AMERICORPS PROGRAM - POTENTIAL PROJECTS: To Accomplish on an Annual Basis
Along with Additional Funding Needed on the Forest to Supplement this Program
FUND CODE/ACT PROJECT DESCRIPTION
SALARIES
EQUIPMENT
SUPPLIES
NFTE
RCW HABITAT IMPROVEMENT
$6,900
$155
$2,550
CT222
A)
RCW midstory work, removal of midstory from within RCW clusters.
This can be accomplished through the use of herbicide or
handtools.
B) RCW survey work - Survey forested area for signs of RCW cluster
activity - such as new RCW cavity trees.
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C)
RCW monumentation work Designating RCW clusters in the field by
painting and signing cluster perimeter.
NFRM
BIENVILLE SCENIC PINE TRAIL
$2,000
$ 50 $2,450
AT232
1.8 miles of hiking trail.
Light Brushing and maintenance
addition of clay-gravel to footpath.
NFRM
SHOCKALOE HORSE TRAIL
$4,000
$4,800
$16,550
AT232
Light Brushing and maintenance
addition of clay-gravel to footpath.
NFRM
MARATHON, SHONGELO, AND COHAY TRAILS
$500
$30
$ 100
AT232
Light Brushing and maintenance
NFRM
RECREATION MTNCE/IMPROVEMENT
$1,000
$35
$1,100
AD23
Routine maintenance. Construction of
camping pad at Basecamp I (handicap accessible)
NFRD
ROAD MAINTENANCE
$900
$50
$ 100
LT232
Daylighting curves on FS Level II
roads by removing brush.
NFFV
OGLETHORPE OAK RESTORATION
$1,500
$35
$ 650
ET25
Obtain advanced regeneration of
Oglethorpe oak through removal
of competing overstory vegetation.
This can be accomplished through the
use of herbicide or handtools.
NFFV
TIMBER STAND IMPROVEMENT
$1,800
$35
$ 50
ET25
Precommercial thinning of young
pine stands through removal of
excess stems using brush blades.
NFWL
WILDLIFE HABITAT IMPROVEMENT
$900
$35 $1,050
CW222
Developing food plots by seeding
and planting desirable grasses.
NFLL
LANDLINE MAINTENANCE
$2,000
$75
$ 750
JL23
Refurbish landlines by blazing, scraping,
and painting.
TOTALS
$21,500
$5,300 $25,350
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White Mountain National Forest AmeriCorps
Bog Brook National Guard Training Facility
White Mountain National Forest
Route 2 Box 1140
Bethel, ME 04217
Congressional District at Central Site: Maine 02
Other Congressional Districts where work will be done: New Hampshire 1 and 2
Type of program: Public Lands/Environment in a rural area
Project Start Date: March 18, 1996
Project Completion Date: Labor Day, 1996 (900 hours)
Number of Full Time Members: 0
Number of Part Time Members: 32
Submitted By:
Rebecca Oreskes
White Mountain National Forest
33 Kanacamagus Highway
Conway, NH 03818
tel. 603-447-5448
fax 603-447-8405
DG: R.Oreskes:r09f22d05a
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Objective Statement
The 1996 White Mountain National Forest (WMNF) AmeriCorps, in partnership with
the Student Conservation Association's New Hampshire Conservation Corps, will
expand on the successes of our 1995 program while creating a more efficient and
cost-effective program. We will continue a 32-member, residential AmeriCorps
devoted to fulfilling public need and land management on the White Mountain
National Forest. The program will reduce a backlog in recreation facility
maintenance and trail maintenance on the Forest's 1200 miles of hiking trails;
provide for increased public information and safety; and reach out to local and
urban youth through environmental education and role-modeling.
Our 1996 budget reflects a change to a 900 hour program running from March to
September. This is to avoid the depths of a New Hampshire winter when
meaningful work for a large group of people is extremely difficult to provide
at a reasonable cost to taxpayers. With a 900 hour, warm-weather program we
think our actual dollar for dollar return will be greatly increased.
The primary work to be completed by our AmeriCorps will be recreation and
resource-related projects on the national forest. With 6 million annual
visitors the WMNF plays a vital part in New Hampshire's economy and our
AmeriCorps will assist with maintaining and enhancing the Forest infrastructure
and ecosystem and the personal experiences of Forest visitors. In addition, our
local communities will receive direct services in environmental education and
resource protection.
After initial training and orientation AmeriCorps participants will perform the
following projects or types of projects:
April-June: Information and education and public safety in Tuckerman Ravine.
Famous for spring skiing, Tuckerman Ravine is one of the most
heavily used recreation sites in the backcountry and a typical
spring weekend will have 6,000 visitors to its small and fragile
environment. Corps members will provide information to assist
visitors in avoiding hazards of falling ice, avalanches, and
assist Forest Service Snow Rangers and the Mt. Washington
Volunteer Ski Patrol in providing search and rescue assistance as
needed. They will also provide camping and leave no trace
information. AmeriCorps will directly contact a minimum of 4,000
visitors.
Forest As a Classroom. In cooperation with the Appalachian
Mountain Club and the local public schools, AmeriCorps
participants will introduce children to the national forest,
conservation and environmental education. 700 local school
children will directly benefit from this program.
Project Learning Tree (PLT). In cooperation with PLT and Boston
area schools AmeriCorps members will host 10-15 inner-city high
school students for three days or more as they explore the
national forest, careers in natural resources and work side-by
side with Corps members on trail maintenance or other projects.
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461
Recreation Facility Maintenance. AmeriCorps members will provide
facility maintenance on 300 developed campsites and 5 picnic
areas. This will include increasing access for people with
disabilities, repair and maintenance of picnic tables, bathrooms,
and public buildings.
Backcountry Trail Sign Construction. The Corps will rout, stain
and do any other necessary work to make 25 hiking and public
information signs as part of the WMNF's 1200 mile hiking trail
system.
Wildlife Habitat Improvement and Maintenance. Through prescribed
burning and/or manual clearing the AmeriCorps will maintain 125
acres of wildlife habitat in concert with the WMNF Land and
Resource Management Plan.
Fisheries Improvement. The Corps will assist with Atlantic
Salmon restoration through the release of fry into the headwaters
of anadromous streams for a total of 550 acres treated. In
addition, they will assist with construction of nine fish habitat
improvement structures.
July-September
Trail Construction and Maintenance. Over 300 miles of trails
will be maintained to standards and guidelines outlined in our
Forest Plan. This will include level one maintenance of brushing
and blowdown clearing, sign maintenance and erosion control as
well as level two maintenance and trail
construction/reconstruction. They will also assist Forest
volunteer "trail adopters" and mountain clubs by providing extra
human-power to difficult trail projects. This will improve the
experience for thousands of forest visitors and leverage the work
of at least 25 forest volunteers.
New Hampshire Trails Day. In cooperation with other Federal,
State and private organizations, AmeriCorps will provide 256
human-hours of work on NH Trails Day. They will also organize an
additional 20 volunteers to work with them on Trails' Day
projects.
Wilderness and Backcountry Education. AmeriCorps participants
will provide "Leave No Trace", environmental ethics and mountain
safety information to 3,000 visitors at cooperator visitor
information centers, our five Ranger Stations and at key
tailheads accessing 114,000 acres of designated wilderness and
other backcountry areas.
Interpretation. AmeriCorps participants will present 32 evening
programs at four national forest campgrounds reaching 1200
visitors. In addition, AmeriCorps members will present
interpretive programs at the Appalachian Mountain Club Pinkham
Notch Visitor Information Center to 500 adults and children.
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:reate
Recreation Facility Maintenance. AmeriCorps members will provide
and
facility maintenance on 300 developed campsites and 5 picnic
areas. This will include increasing access for people with
disabilities, repair and maintenance of picnic tables, bathrooms,
d public buildings.
and
gger
Backcountry Trail Sign Construction. The Corps will rout, stain
ic
and do any other necessary work to make 25 hiking and public
:her
information signs as part of the WMNF's 1200 mile hiking trail
ive
system.
ilt by
ice
Wildlife Habitat Improvement and Maintenance. Through prescribed
burning and/or manual clearing the AmeriCorps will maintain 125
acres of wildlife habitat in concert with the WMNF Land and
sed
Resource Management Plan.
Fisheries Improvement. The Corps will assist with Atlantic
irect
Salmon restoration through the release of fry into the headwaters
of anadromous streams for a total of 550 acres treated. In
addition, they will assist with construction of nine fish habitat
year
improvement structures.
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Trail Construction and Maintenance. Over 300 miles of trails
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ears when
itional 20 volunteers to work with them on Trails' Day
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education
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pretive programs at the Appalachian Mountain Club Pinkham
Visitor Information Center to 500 adults and children.
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46
The work AmeriCorps performs on the White Mountain National Forest will
increase the enjoyment of thousands of forest visitors; provide increased
safety for hikers, skiers and backpackers on the forest; increase visitor
awareness to conservation and public land management issues; introduce local
school children to the land which many of them have never explored; provide
minority urban high school students with more understanding of career options
in natural resources; improve ecosystem management through wildlife and
fisheries habitat improvements; assist the forest with meeting its recreation
facility and trail maintenance backlog; provide participants with greater
understanding of public land management, national service and community based
living.
Our primary partner for the White Mountain National Forest AmeriCorps, the New
Hampshire Conservation Corps is experienced and skilled at running not only
youth service programs but also the current WMNF AmeriCorps program and a State
AmeriCorps program at Monadnock State Park. The staff to participant ratio will
be 1:8.
In addition, the Forest Service will provide a Program Director to assist with
participant recruitment, project coordination and cooperation with the various
partners and agencies.
Other partners and cooperators with the WMNF AmeriCorps include: Maine Army
National Guard (federal) providing the residential facility; NH National and
Community Service Executive Board (appointed by the Governor) providing support
and coordination for all AmeriCorps programs in New Hampshire, including joint
training and community service days; the Appalachian Mountain Club (private,
non-profit) providing program development, training and service for
environmental education including room and board at AMC facilities as needed;
SOLO (private) allowing AmeriCorps participants to receive Wilderness First Aid
training and certification at a reduced rate; Randolph Mountain Club providing
free room and board to on-duty AmeriCorps participants at RMC backcountry
facilities; NH Healthsource (business) will cover the 3rd party share of health
insurance cost for AmeriCorps participants ($5,000 min.) White Mountain
Interpretive Association (private) will provide a material contributions in the
form of resource books, maps and T-shirts and two scholarships to the
Interpretive Training Institute for AmeriCorps participants (total $1,000);
other Mountain Clubs and community groups will be solicited to work
cooperatively on relevant projects.
Participants will be recruited through: local schools, community groups and
organizations to attract local "North Country" residents; the SCA's minority
outreach and placement program; the Dawnland Alliance and other local Native
American groups; the national AmeriCorps recruitment pool and through SCA's
national AmeriCorps recruitment pool (see detailed recruitment plan below).
Collaboration and Organizational Capacity
The Student Conservation Association's New Hampshire Conservation Corps was
selected, after a competitive process, to work with the White Mountain National
Forest 1996 AmeriCorps. They will be responsible for day to day supervision of
the AmeriCorps participants, safety and group dynamics, fostering the
AmeriCorps identity, day to day coordination with the Maine Army National Guard
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at Bog Brook Training Facility and completion of projects provided by the
Forest Service AmeriCorps Director.
Their administrative staff includes:
Bob Coates, New Hampshire Conservation Corps Director; Will Twombly, Director
of Field Operations; Deborah Hinman, Director of Administration; Kristin Ells,
Program Assistant; as well Student Conservation Association staff Scott Weaver,
Vice President of Programs; Scott Izzo, President; and Jay Satz, Director of
Field Operations.
The Student Conservation Association and New Hampshire Conservation Corps have
over 37 years of experience providing partnerships in natural resource
conservation on public and private land throughout the US, with high school
work groups, resource assistants, conservation corps and AmeriCorps. As
successful implementation of the 1995 WMNF Americorps is showing right now,
SCA/NHCC have the skills and experience to manage a complex and ambitious
AmeriCorps program.
Other partners and sources of funding are listed above.
Innovation and Replicability
Within the confines of the law, the WMNF AmeriCorps program will continue to
encourage a program that thrives and builds upon the energy and creativity of
our participants, and Forest partners. Our projects reflect the needs of
AmeriCorps members, Forest specialists and partners with specific needs and
programs related to national forest management. In addition, we are trying to
be members of the larger State service community by having our AmeriCorps
participate in State-wide service events. The partnerships for our program
cross boundaries of Federal, State and Private cooperation, leading to greater
efficiency of energy and effort.
By cooperating with several long-standing community conservation groups the
WMNF AmeriCorps program fits in well to leverage existing volunteer and paid
efforts but also to help expand into new programs that may well exist into the
future. Examples of this include Forest As A Classroom, Project Learning Tree
and other environmental education programs (Corps members will create materials
and project outlines that can be used by others in years to come.) Increasing
volunteer support for and participation in NH Trails Day is another example of
how AmeriCorps energy can be used to support ongoing programs in the
future.
For other sources of funding the NHCC is currently working with the James River
Corporation and the Appalachian Mountain Club to discuss future options.
Detailed Recruitment Plan
Our goal for 1996 continues to be to recruit AmeriCorps participants with a
variety of educational, socio-economic, geographic and ethnic backgrounds.
This is not always easy in the relatively un-racially diverse regions of
Northern New England. To meet this objective we will take the following
actions:
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Minority Recruitment will be aided by:
*
The Student Conservation Association's Conservation Career Development
Program (CCDP) in Arlington, Virginia
*
Native American recruitment through the Dawnland Alliance and the New
Hampshire Bilingual/ESL Resource Center, Concord, NH
*
The New England Multi-Functional Resource Center, Brown University
*
Project Learning Tree Boston-area school contacts
To reach the broadest socio-economic base we will recruit for AmeriCorps
through:
*
New Hampshire Special Education Services
*
New Hampshire Job Training Council
*
The New Hampshire Food Stamp Newsletter.
*
Court Diversion Programs in New Hampshire
*
United Way supported agencies
*
New England Farm Worker's Council
*
Local Police Departments
In addition, we will place announcements in Earthworks Magazine, Job Seeker,
Environmental Opportunities, and local and regional media. We will actively
encourage local, north country applications through the Berlin, NH Technical
College and the entire New Hampshire School for Lifelong Learning network.
The following schedule represents our current recruitment timetable:
April-August 1995 Recruitment blitz to include mailing out 1996 application
forms; personal visits to High School seniors in New
Hampshire; visits with and telephone calls to High School
senior advisors; mailing of information to High Schools
throughout Maine; notices sent out to all New England
College career offices; notices published in select
publications (see above); meetings with Dawnland Alliance,
CCDP representatives et. al (see above) i tapping into the
national AmeriCorps recruitment pool
November 1, 1995
Completed application deadline
December 15, 1995 Interviews with promising applicants completed
December 15 1995- Offers Made
January 15, 1996
February 15, 1996 All offers made and acceptances completed
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March 18, 1996
Program begins. Waiting list maintained to fill in behind
any attrition.
Detailed Workplan and Milestone Schedule
A detailed workplan will be developed when the program is approved. The
following is a general milestone schedule:
May 1, 1995
Concerted 1996 recruitment begins
November 1, 1995
Application Deadline
February 15, 1996
Recruitment is finalized and offers made to applicants
February 19, 1996
March-May projects are finalized in concert with the Forest
Service Program Director, our five Ranger Districts, the
Supervisor's Office and Forest partners
March 18, 1996
Participants arrive
March 18-22, 1996
AmeriCorps' orientation
March 25, 1996
Field projects begin
April 8, 1996
Swearing-in ceremony and celebration
April 15, 1996
May through September projects finalized and ready to go
June 7, 1996
Have completed 450 hours of service
Labor Day 1996
1996 Program Ends
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FY 96 FIELD PROPOSAL
VERMONT AMERICORPS
1. COVER PAGE
a. National Service Academy - Vermont Americorps
b. Green Mountain National Forest, USDA-FS
Contact Person's Name: Greg Wright
Address: 231 North Main Street
City/State, Zip: Rutland, Vermont 05701
Telephone No/FAX No: 802-747-6700, Fax: 802-747-6766
C. Vermont
d. Some possible projects in Central New York on the Finger Lakes NF.
e. Rural
f. Environment, Public Saftey, Education and Human Needs.
g. October 1, 1995
h. September 30, 1996
i. 20 Full Time Members
j. 0 Part Time Members
k. Third Party: Thomas L. Hark, Executive Director
Vermont Youth Conservation Corps, Inc.
1. PO Box 482
Waterbury, VT 05676
m. Telephone No. 802-241-3699 Fax No. 802-244-3908
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2. OBJECTIVE STATEMENT
1. Narrative Statement
USDA AmeriCorps & National Service Academy - Background & Vision
The National Service Academy, funded primarily by AmeriCorps and the USDA, is a
national service initiative aimed at combining service and education to help
strengthen citizenship and productivity through an ethic of service. This service
and education occurs simultaneously with the completion of high-priority and
back-logged conservation work on the Green Mountain National Forest (GMNF).
This National Service Academy provides education and service opportunities for
citizens of all ages to empower them with personal, career, and community growth.
Corps Members will work to solve critical environmental problems, public safety
issues, and education needs, while earning post-service benefits to help pay for
future or existing educational expenses. Through the National Service Academy, an
idyllic relationship between government, for-profit and non-profit organizations
has been forged.
The mission of the National Service Academy is to train individuals to become
leaders for the service and conservation corps throughout the world. Currently,
with over 200 service and conservation corps are operating, and more beginning each
year, well-trained, highly qualified leaders are in great demand. The National
Service Academy, by excelling at meeting AmeriCorps goals, will also meet this
demand for leaders. In the process, this nationally recognized program in
Poultney, Vermont will attract additional private dollars each year and the
longevity of this AmeriCorps program will reach far into the future.
The ultimate vision is to create a financially self-sustaining national service and
education program on the Green Mountain College Campus, which will provide highly
skilled and enthusiastic teams of volunteers to complete high-priority, backlogged
conservation projects on the Green Mountain National Forest. Further, we envision
this "service academy" to rank with our other national academies in terms of
education, training and quality.
Primary Purpose
The primary purpose of this AmeriCorps program is the restoration, maintenance and
management of national forest resources, while providing educational opportunities
for individuals. The work completed will reduce the backlog maintenance of
recreation facilities and trails, provide wildlife, fisheries and watershed
improvements and improve accessibility standards for people with disabilities.
Basic customer services will be provided to national forest visitors.
2. Components:
SPECIFIC AMERICORPS PROJECTS
The USDA Forest Service, Green Mountain National Forest residential camp will have
work sites throughout the Green Mountain National Forest with a residential site to
be established by the applicant. A total of 20 full-time Members will be
interviewed and accepted, dependent on available funding and partnerships, to
accomplish the objectives listed below.
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Recreation Facility Backlog - Restoration of recreation facilities in campgrounds
and day use sites - Work includes the grading and graveling of sites and pathways
for resource protection and to better meet accessibility standards; replacement of
fire rings and construction of picnic tables; and repair signs and restrooms.
Project accomplishments would be the number of individual sites maintained to
standard and accessibility. About 1-3 weeks per year will be spent retrofitting
sites to meet accessibility standards for people with disabilities.
Trail Backlog - Restoration and maintenance of trails - Work includes the cleaning
and repairing of trail drainage structures; repairing trail treadway;
building small bridges; clearing down trees and trailside vegetation; maintaining
trailside vista openings; repairing and replacing trail signs. About 8 to 11 weeks
per year will be spent completing approximately 100 miles of heavy trail
maintenance to standard.
Recreation Operations and Maintenance - Daily operations at campgrounds and day use
areas - Work includes making visitor contacts, doing site cleaning and routine
maintenance to facilities. In addition to the daily operations at campgrounds,
some crew members may become leaders of youth work groups or other volunteers
working on the Forest. Staff may also assist with visitor contact at Forest
Service Offices. Project accomplishment will be the number of staff days provided
and recreation visitor days. Approximately 8 to 11 weeks per year will be spent on
recreation maintenance.
Visitor and Community Services - Visitor Contact Persons - During high visitor use
months, visitor contact persons would be placed at key dispersed recreation
take-off points, such as trailheads. Work would include providing information,
education and interpretation to protect the scenic beauty and integrity of a the
Green Mountain National Forest, providing information on low-impact camping and
hiking, mountain safety and wilderness ethics. Project accomplishment would be the
number of individuals contacted.
Wilderness Management - Work would include wilderness trail maintenance,
restoration of dispersed user sites and making visitor contacts. Project
accomplishment would be the miles of trails to standards, dispersed users sites
restored, and number of staff days provided. About 2-3 weeks per year.
Watershed Improvements - Work would include restoration of closed roads, seeding
and clearing of drainage structures; riparian revegetation. Project accomplishment
would be the acres of restorations. About 1-3 weeks per year completing
approximately 10 to 20 acres of restoration.
Fisheries - Work would include monitoring and maintenance and/or installation of
instream fisheries structures and stocking of juvenile Atlantic salmon in headwater
streams. Project accomplishment would be the number of fisheries sites monitored,
acres of habitat improved, and the number of salmon stocked. About 2 to 3 weeks
would be spent completing 5 to 10 acres of stream side planting and a variety of
other projects.
Wildlife Habitat Improvements - Work would include wildlife habitat improvements,
apple tree release projects, monitoring wildlife plots and participation in
collecting and identification of small mammals as an element of wildlife monitoring
activities. Project accomplishment would be the acres of wildlife habitat improved
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and the number of wildlife sites monitored. About 8 to 12 weeks would be spent
completing 100 to 200 acres of habitat improvements, monitoring and other projects.
Timber Stand Improvements - Work would include timber stand improvements and other
activities related to forest health. Project accomplishments would be acres
improved, using several different methods including prescribe burning.
Approximately 5 to 10 weeks would be spent completing 50 to 100 acres of
improvements.
Environmental Education and Interpretive Programs - Using "the forest as a
classroom," participants would provide environmental education in coordination with
Project Learning Tree and other resource-based environmental education curricula to
local elementary schools. Project accomplishment would be the number of school
students attending classes. Time included in all projects.
Road Maintenance - Culvert and drainage clearing and curve daylighting along Forest
Service roads. Brushing and maintenance required to allow public to travel Forest
Service roads safely. Approximately 2 weeks completing 3 miles of improvements.
Archaeology - Work would include site digs and evaluation, cataloguing and cleaning
artifacts. Potential for interviewing and recording oral history from older area
residence. Information being used for future site identification on the forest and
to compliment Vermont Historical Society archived history. Project accomplishment
would be the number of sites visited, number of oral histories completed and the
number of artifacts cleaned and catalogued. Approximately 1 to 3 weeks.
b. Expected Results
The results of theses service projects will greatly reduce the amount of
back-logged work on the Green Mountain National Forest. In addition to "getting
things done" on the National Forest, AmeriCorps Members will learn the value of a
hard work ethic while strengthening citizenship, leadership, conservation, and
environmental skills.
C. Measurement of Quality
Monitoring efforts will identify the condition of various resources and past
national forest accomplishments. The quality and success of these projects will be
measured in a comprehensive capacity. Project evaluatory measures include the
following: comparative analysis to U.S. Forest Service plans, analysis by
technical field experts, analysis by the Program Administrator's technical field
staff, and analysis by partner organizations field staff.
d. Measurement of Success
These improvements will be weighed as to their effectiveness in producing a range
of goods and services for the American public while maintaining the integrity of
the social and environmental ecosystems located on the Green Mountain National
Forest. Standards and guidelines for the Land and Resource Management Plans for
the Green Mountain and Finger Lakes will be followed for all projects.
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e. Expected Benefits
The program is designed to meet national priorities for improved environmental
quality, public safety, education and human needs. In addition to direct benefits
to the 20 corpsmembers, the completed projects will benefit many thousands of
people in the towns and villages that are adjacent to the Green Mountain National
Forest. More difficult to measure are the benefits to the many visitors to this
Forest. The Green Mountain National Forest is located within an easy days drive of
many millions of people that live in large population centers like Boston and New
York City. Many of these people recreate on the national forests in the New
England area. Much of the FY 96 program is designed to improve recreation benefits
for these visitors.
3. Summary Page
A strong, supportive and enthusiastic community will be crucial to the success of
the USDA AmeriCorps program at the National Service Academy. A successful
community is one in which everyone feels accepted, appreciated, comfortable,
included, happy, challenged and most importantly, productive.
All Corps Members and staff will live in Poultney, Vermont. They will
utilize an entire dorm for all their needs. The men and women will each have
their own floor and prepare and cook their meals in a suite of renovated
rooms. In the basement classrooms the tools, camping gear and other
equipment will be maintained and stored. The main living area has a large
community room and dining room. Next to these rooms is a set of offices used
by the director and crew leaders for administrative work, report writing and
individual and small group conferencing. This one building contains all that
that is needed for a small community to do its work, live, recreate and
develop the AmeriCorps program.
Corps Members will work during the daytime, but there will be a number of evenings
when seminars or other activities will take place. The goal will be to achieve a
balance between structured and less structured time to participate in additional
service activities in and around the Poultney area and the college.
In addition to evening activities, there will be rituals which will promote
cohesiveness, learning, reflection and enthusiasm. Thoughts for the day, or
moments of silence before meals, morning circles, morning stretches, and tail-gate
safety sessions are a few examples. In addition, one evening per week will be set
aside for the entire community to meet.
During the Corps Members' initial training, they will do structured team-building
activities. There will be activities for almost every night and weekend during the
first two weeks. The goal is to get the two teams conditioned and organized so
that they can productively and safely complete their work assignments together.
There will be a few nights each week, on an on-going basis that the both crews will
be present. One of these will be reserved for a community meeting. The goal for
this meeting is to provide an arena to inform the community about the coming week,
and special events, and to air and solve problems.
Corps Members will be actively involved in the larger community of Poultney by
working with senior citizens, local school children and/or to join clubs at the
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college. Some evenings there will be educational activities and other nights will
be open for a swim in the college pool, intramurals in the gym or even a movie.
The program recruitment will strive to mirror the Green Mountain National Forest
multicultural organizational goals. To help facilitate this process, Fronteir
Communications (formerly Long Distance North) has donated up to $3,500.00 to the
Youth Corps in the form of a free 800# to make it as easy as possible for
applicants to apply. An extensive recruitment network developed by the Youth Corps
over the past ten years will also be used to heighten interest in the program.
This network includes over three hundred colleges nationwide, educators,
administrators, guidance counselors, peer leaders, directors, law enforcement
officials, and many others. The USDA/NSA will also recruit through the extensive
Youth Corps network of past staff, Corps member alumni, private donors, NASCC, and
others. In addition, the Youth Corps-NSA and Green Mountain College will jointly
recruit corps members with an emphasis on diversity.
4. Collaboration
Green Mountain National Forest (GMNF)
The Youth Corps proposes to continue to operate through its agreement with the US
Forest Service - Green Mountain National Forest to perform high quality, safe,
backlogged conservation work. The Youth Corps will enroll teams of Corps Members
and adults to accomplish this task under the supervision of the USDA National
Service Academy Crew Leaders and the National Service Director.
The US Forest Service will continue to play an important role in each project. The
Green Mountain National Forest staff will assist the Youth Corps in training,
monitoring and evaluating our Crews. Because this proposed program would be new
and unique, the US Forest Service will be provided with regular updates on program
developments and project status throughout the season.
A designated contact person within the Green Mountain National Forest will work
directly with the National Service Director and Crew Leaders to insure that the
program is successful. In order to keep communication lines clear, all
communication for the agency is directed through this contact person. This person
will provide advice and direction. The National Service Director and Crew Leaders
will keep the agency contact updated on program developments. All issues related
to the USDA grant which funds this project will be discussed and cleared with the
GMNF Contact.
Green Mountain College
The USDA National Service Academy is based in Moses Hall at Green Mountain College
in Poultney, Vermont. The goal of the Youth Corps and Green Mountain College is
for the USDA National Service Academy program to be a fully integrated part of the
college. Corps Members will earn at least two and up to six 400 level
environmental studies college credits while in the program, and are encouraged to
participate in college-sponsored activities; particularly, educational and special
events. Corps Members are welcome to use all college facilities including the
indoor pool, library, health and counseling services and dining services. In
addition, the task force designing the new Environmental Studies curriculum for the
college has invited those Corps Members with interest and background to partake in
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curriculum assistance for a new Environmental Studies degree program. Corps Member
undergraduates are encouraged to apply for admission to the college.
Additional Partners Include:
Green Mountain Club, Vermont Leadership Center, Catamount Trail Association,
National Forest Foundation, Student Conservation Association, Vermont Association
of Snow Travelers, National Association of Service and Conservation Corps.
5. Organizational Capacity
Youth Corps Staff
Thomas Hark, Executive Director
The Executive Director is responsible for all aspects of the Youth Corps and
ultimately, all operations of the National Service Academy. These include:
program development, operation and facilitation, vision and inspiration.
Dana Hearn, Associate Director
The Associate Director is directly responsible for overseeing all program
operations including but not limited to: program development, hiring, training,
monitoring, evaluating, park operations, financial management and policy. The
Associate Director is also directly responsible for the training of all
personnel, the management of all projects statewide, and all expansion
efforts. She provides an abundance of general support, specifically project
support.
Bruce Kellman, Field Program Manager
The Field Program Manager is responsible for managing all summer program
operations and managing the full-time staff members who carry out these annual
responsibilities. The Field Program Manager works closely with the Associate
Director to insure annual operations. The Field Program Manager works with the
National Service Director to assist with program management and to monitor,
support, and evaluate all projects.
Keith Hughes, National Service Director
The National Service Director is responsible for developing all aspects of the
USDA National Service Academy. The National Service Director is directly
responsible for staff and crew recruitment and management, crew administration,
payroll, equipment coordination, and education. The National Service Director
works directly with the USFS Agency Contact, the Youth Corps Executive
Director, and the Crew Leaders to insure success of the program. Crew Leaders
are supervised by the National Service Director.
Crew Leaders
Crew Leaders are responsible for the operations and management of the crew and
the project sites. Crew Leaders will share responsibility for supervising the
crews at the project site, educational program development and implementation,
as well as the training, supervision, community building and the evaluation of
Corps Members.
Corps Members
There will be twenty Corps Members at the Academy who will work in smaller
teams on high priority conservation projects. Each Corps Member will be an
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active participant in creating a safe, productive, and respectful environment.
Corps Members will eventually lead formal and informal educational activities.
Corps Members will participate and help to develop an intellectually and
physically challenging environment for learning and personal growth.
6. Innovation & Replicability
The ultimate vision of the National Service Academy is to create a financially
self-sufficient national service and education program on the Green Mountain
College Campus, which will provide highly skilled and enthusiastic teams of
volunteers to complete high-priority, backlogged conservation projects on the Green
Mountain National Forest. We envision this "service academy" to rank with our
other national military academies in terms of education, training and quality.
In order to reach our goal of becoming self-sufficient the National Service Academy
is utilizing the local and state strengths of the Youth Corps coupled with an
aggressive local and national public relations plan. In 1994 the marketing and
public relations directors from the Youth Corps, GMC and GMNF met and began to
draft a detailed public relations plan. This plan will be completed by May of
1995. The Youth Corps proposes to carry out this detailed plan and to continue
working with all of the parties involved to showcase this USDA AmeriCorps project.
Specifically, the proposed plan addresses the following: All staff and Corps
Members will wear a uniform shirt with AmeriCorps patch. Corps Members will also
have AmeriCorps t-shirts and ball caps.
The USDA/National Service Academy will host all US Governors at the National
Governors Association conference in the summer of 1995. The NGA will showcase this
as an exemplary project.
An all-service conference will be held for all Vermont AmeriCorps volunteers at the
National Service Academy. This event will bring considerable exposure to the
program on a local and national level.
Finally, a committee of AmeriCorps volunteers will, on their free time and under
the direction of the Academy Director, develop regular press releases which will be
sent to home town publications of Corps Members for further publicity.
The ultimate goal is to bring significant attention to the USDA/GMNF AmeriCorps
program.
7. Detailed Recruitment Plan
The program recruitment will strive to mirror the Green Mountain National Forest
multicultural organizational goals. To help facilitate this process, Fronteir
Communications (formerly Long Distance North) has donated up to $3,500.00 to the
Youth Corps in the form of a free 800# to make it as easy as possible for
applicants to apply. An extensive recruitment network developed by the Youth Corps
over the past ten years will also be used to heighten interest in the program.
This network includes over three hundred colleges nationwide, educators,
administrators, guidance counselors, peer leaders, directors, law enforcement
officials, and many others. The USDA/NSA will also recruit through the extensive
Youth Corps network of past staff, Corps member alumni, private donors, NASCC, and
others.
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In addition, the Youth Corps National Service Academy will fully utilize recruiting
avenues provided by the Corporation for National Service, the United States
Department of Agriculture, and the Vermont State Commission on National and
Community Service. Furthermore, collaborative recruiting partnerships with other
state commissions on National and Community Service will be utilized.
Moreover, the Youth Corps National Service Academy and Green Mountain College will
diligently work together throughout the recruiting process with an emphasis on
maximizing diversity.
8. Detailed Work Plan and Milestone Schedule
6/1/95
- Finalize plans/contracts for facilities (subject to
confirmation of funding)
6/15/95
- Begin staff recruitment.
7/1/95
- Begin recruitment of corpmembers.
9/1/95
- Complete selection of staff and corpsmembers.
9/15/95
- Complete training for new staff.
10/1/95
- Project start-up.
First Quarter - FY 96
- Training in early phases and during bad weather.
Project accomplishment -trails, TSI, wildlife openings. Heavy
field emphasis early in quater.
Second Quarter- FY 96
-Corpmembers off. Detailed project planning and
coordination for 3rd and 4th quarters.
Third Quarter- FY 96
- Project Accomplishment - Prescribed burning,
reforestation, fisheries, recreation site opening, trail
clearing will be emphases.
Fourth Quarter- FY96
- Project Accomplishment - Trail construction, road
maintenance, soil&water imp., on-going recreation work.
9/30/95
- Project Completion
9. Detailed Budget
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