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USDA [Department of Agriculture]/AmeriCorps - Clinton Library Copies - FY95 Progress Reports [1]
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USDA [Department of Agriculture]/AmeriCorps - Clinton Library Copies - FY95 Progress Reports [1]
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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:
24225
FolderID:
Folder Title:
USDA [Department of Agriculture]/Americorps - Clinton Library Copies - FY 95 Progress Reports [1]
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S
66
1
6
3
Louisiaha Year-END Report
USDA AmeriCorps
"Getting Things Done"
1994-95
NATIONAL AMERICORPS IN SERIOES
USDA/AmeriCorps
Soil Conservation Service
Louisiana
USDA/Americorps invites you to
Attend an orientation and interview for the USDA/AmeriCorps Rural
Development Projects in Louisiana at the Holiday Inn, 2716 North
MacArthur Drive, Alexandria, Louisiana, on August 26, 1994.
We have reviewed your referral and/or application form, and we are
very interested in talking to you about a USDA/Americorps position.
Registration for the meeting will begin at 9:30 a.m., and the orientation
session will begin at 10:00 a.m.
We will provide lunch, and you will be invited to participate in
interviews after lunch.
Please confirm your attendance on the attached postage-paid card, and
return this card to me as soon as possible. Someone will also be calling
you to confirm your attendance and answer any questions.
An application form and draft agenda are attached for your use. Please
complete the application form and bring it with you to the orientation.
/ am looking forward to meeting you and talking about the AmeriCorps
program!
Buy R. Moore
Billy R. Moore
Agency Project Director
Attachments
AMERICORPS KICK-OFF
IN NEW ORLEANS
AMERICORPS PLEDGE
I will get things done for America--to make our
people safer, smarter, and healthier.
I will bring Americans together to strengthen our
communities.
Faced with apathy, I will take action. Faced with
conflict, I will seek common ground. Faced with
adversity, I will persevere.
I will carry this commitment with me this year
and beyond.
I am an AmeriCorps Member. And I'm going to
get things done.
AmeriCorps passes muster
Clinton to swear in first service recruits
By RON FOURNIER
ing in the polls. the president re-
The workers will receive mini-
Associated Press writer
turned from his summer vacation
mum-wage pay, free health care
hammering on the all-American
and a $4,725 educational voucher
ABERDEFN, Md. - Presi-
themes of family values, personal
for one year of work. The $4,725
dent Clinton. worshiping in a
responsibility and public service.
can be usec. for college, voca-
military chapel here Sunday,
"Service to others is something
tional education or to pay off cob
thanked the first recrrits to his
everyone can do, and something
lege loans. They can work up to
national service program for ful-
everyone should do because of
two years.
illing "our God-given responsi-
our relationship to our God. our
If Congress extends the pro-
bility to serve our fellow human
responsibility to others. and our
gram, the W ite House hopes to
beings."
responsibility to ourselves," he
spend $1.5 billion over three
The president and Hillary
said Sunday.
years to pay for 100,000 workers.
Rodham Clinton attended serv-
The national service program.
Attending church with Clinton
ices at the Aberdeen Proving
which fulfils a cornerstone piedge
were about 30 members of the
TOP PHOTO
Ground. a weapons facility in
central Maryland. The visit was
of Clinton's presidential cam-
National Civilian Community
RECD AmeriCorps Team
paign, is a $360 million effort to
Corp., a branch of AmeriCorps
Front Row: Lee Wooldridge,
designed to promote the presi-
put 20,000 mostly young Ameri-
that trained East Coast recruits
Marjorie Bethea, Zelma
dent's AmeriCorps initiative, a
cans to work in four areas: educa-
at the Aberdeen base to fight for-
sweeping collection of old and
Powell, Sandi Eley, Naomi
tion, health and human needs,
est fires in the West.
new community service programs
Boley, Bobbie Ignont.
the environment and public
Clinton shook their hands on
offering college education to its
safety.
the way out of church.
Back Row: Wydette
workers.
Williams & Henry
The program formally com-
Rosenthal.
mences today, when Clinton
BOTTOM PHOTO
plans to swear in nearly 15,000
AmeriCorps recruits, capping his
AmeriCorps Kickoff in New
2-year-oid campaign for the serv-
Orleans on Sept. 12, 1994.
ice.
Front Row: Judy Ned,
Clinton spoke from the pulpit
Alicia Trissler, Robin
to a congregation of about 300.
Torrence. Back Row:
"This is a special service that
reaffirms our relationship to our
Hope Beggan, Dominic
God. and our God-given responsi-
Beggan, Tressa Lantz,
bility to serve our fellow human
Aminul Mahfuz, Angie
beings." he said.
Norsworthy, Carl Collins,
With health care reform in
Christie LeBleu, Susie
jeopardy and his popularity wan-
Mullins.
THE
WD
SGTI
W
Welcome to USDA/AmeriCorps
When President Lincoln signed into law the act of Congress establishing the
United States Department of Agriculture on May 15, 1862, he did so with a vision of
USDA as the "People's Department." With the purpose as stated by Congress, "to
acquire among the people of the United States useful information on subjects connected
with agriculture and to procure, propagate, and distribute among the people new and
valuable seeds and plants," one clerk, four assistants and a gardener set out to bring their
services to the farmers of America.¹
As America has changed in over one hundred years since, so has the USDA,
which now reaches the lives of 260 million Americans. Today, the Department continues
to provide assistance to the nation's 2 million farmers while helping 69 million rural
residents, protecting the environment, ensuring better nutrition for women and infants,
managing 191 million acres of national forest and grassland, and ensuring healthy school
lunches for 25 million children.²
As a new member of AmeriCorps® - you are joining an entity which is based on
a principle of American society that is as old as the republic itself: the idea that, not only
does the democracy have the duty to protect and nourish the well-being of its citizens, but
that citizens have an equal duty to protect and nourish the well-being of democracy.
It is most fitting then, that the "People's Department" is leading the effort to bring
the President's national service program to fruition. USDA/ AmeriCorps members will
be planting the seeds in America for a future built upon volunteerism and community.
Working together, we have the opportunity to help Americans more than ever before. As
President Clinton stated:
"Working together we can ensure that the world we leave to the future holds the
same promise and opportunity as the one we inherited from the past."
President Clinton, April 14, 1994
Welcome to USDA/AmeriCorps.
1 Century of Service, Gladys L. Baker et al. pg. 1, (1963)
2" A New Attitude" 1993 Report of the Secretary of Agriculture, pgs. iii-vii.
USDA/AmeriCorps New Member Orientation
Mission
The purpose of the AmeriCorps program is to "get things done"ᵀM using the concept of
national service as a vehicle. It offers opportunities to Americans to serve their country
and earn education awards in return. It is a grassroots effort to solve the problems facing
communities across the nation.
AmeriCorps Ethic
The AmeriCorps Ethic is:
Getting things done. Our primary goal is to improve communities by meeting
their educational, nutritional, human, and environmental needs.
Strengthening communities. AmeriCorps brings together individuals from
different backgrounds and incomes, with different missions and cultures, in the
common effort to improve our communities.
Encouraging responsibility. AmeriCorps encourages members to explore and
exercise their responsibilities toward their communities, themselves and their
families - in their service experience and throughout their lives.
Expanding opportunity. AmeriCorps members receive awards to further their
education or pay back student loans, as well as valuable job experience, specialized
training, and life skills.
Don Gohmert, NRCS State Conservationist, addresses the new AmeriCorps members
during orientation activities held at the U.S. Forest Service office in Pineville.
TIMBER
BRIDGE
-------------------------
Date
PROJECT
nva
Aminul Mahfuz is working in a
17-parish area to assist local
communities to provide the
technical assistance necessary to
promote timber bridges as one
solution to transportation
problems in economically
depressed areas.
TOURISM &
COMMUNITY
PLANNING
194
5
NM
OTT
OX Inn
LANTA
-
Article Printed In The
WINN PARISH ENTERPRISE
October 19, 1994
are
LAW
M
:
de
Alicia Trissler is serving as liason for
promotion of tourism in Winn Parish. She is
with Americorps and will be working closely
with the museum, chamber of commerce and
other groups. She is seen here with Bill Poe,
director of volunteers at the museum and George
Harrel.
United States
Forest
Southern
1720 Peachtree Road NW
Department of
Service
Region
Atlanta, Georgia 30367
Agriculture
File Code: 3610
Date: February 28, 1995
Route To: Americorps Forest Coordinators
Subject: Token of Appreciation
To: Forest Supervisors- Daniel Boone, Chatt/Oconee, Cherokee, Kisatchie,
Mississippi, Ozark-St.Francis, North Carolina, Francis Marion, Jefferson.
This first year of the Forest Service's involvement in the AmeriCorps Rural
Development has been very challenging and exciting. The fast pace efforts to
establish the sites; develop positions and objectives; recruit, interview and
enroll members; set up offices, vehicles and equipment; train members and
monitor working situations; and most of all following all the daily directions
that were and still are unfolding deserves a big thank you to the Coordinators,
Supervisors and all other staff that helped put this program together.
I am so proud of the great work the Forest Service Members are doing in their
communities. Starting "cold" on rural development is a big challenge all by
itself with all the rural economic problems that have been persistent for
years. Trying to make a difference in a short amount of time is pretty
ambitious, but the members are getting things done. Success is hard to measure
in this type of work. A positive attitude, team work and a willingness to help
makes all the difference in the world.
As a token of my appreciation for the great job you are doing and will continue
to do, please accept this AmeriCorps belt buckle and wear it proudly. We will
be sending lapel pins as soon as they arrive.
Enclosed is a list of recommended Coordinators, Supervisors and Members who
should receive these buckles. Please pass on my appreciation for a job well
done.
ROBERT C. JOSLIN
Regional Forester
Enclosures
FARM*A*SYST
PROGRAM
Your Drinking
Water Safe?
How Do Use
Farm A Syst?
Farm*A*Syst is a voluntary program designed to educate rural residents on well water about potential sources of
groundwater contamination. AmeriCorps members Carl Collins, Christie LeBleu, and Sobrena Lewis introduced this
program to approximately 700 people in nine Louisiana parishes.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
<<<<<<<<<<<<<
DRY FIRE
HYDRANTS
Terrs
PROGRAM
AmeriCorps Participants
Traillazer RE&D: Angela Norsworthy
Twin Valley RE&D: Tressa Lantz
Capital RE&D:
Robin Torrence
Imperial Calcasieu
RE&D:
Dominic Beggan
14A THE NATCHITOCHES TIMES Thursday, April 20, 1995
Pond hydrants contribute to rural protection
Louisiana's rural population and
completed in 1992. Approval of the
installed in existing lakes, ponds and
water source. This reduction in the
local government agencies have
current project resulted in the com-
streams.
amount of time taken to supply
received good news about rural road
bined efforts of Trailblazer and
Properly installed. dry hydrants
water to rural fire fighting efforts
maintenance and fire protection.
DNR and in cooperation with the
can solve the problem of hauling
can reduce insurance rates in those
Jack McClanahan, secretary of
Northeast Delta, Capital. Twin
water over long distances by provid-
areas.
the Louisiana Department of Natural
Valley and Imperial Calcasieu
ing natural. unprocessed water for
Water is also a key ingredient to
Resources (DNR), has announced
RC&D councils and parish police
use. The multiple benefits awarded
maintaining gravel roads.
the approval of $998,984 in oil over-
juries.
by dry hydrants include energy sav-
Using water to compact new lay-
charge funds for the implementation
Twin Valley is a non-profit orga-
ings to consumers and road mainte-
ers of dirt or gravel makes a
of a statewide dry hydrant project to
nization supported by federal. state
nance departments, and improving
smoother surface on which vehicles
be coordinated by Trainblazer Inc.
and foundation grants. The RC&D
rural fire protection and lower fire
can travel and increases the mileage
of Ruston. The project will demon-
program is designed to help volun-
insurance ratings.
vehicles using the road can achieve.
strate energy savings through
teers at a local level identify and
Improved rural fire protection is
Having water available for
improved rural fire protection and
work toward solving the problems
achieved with the use of dry
extraction on-site resulted in a 50
road maintenance with the installa-
unique to their individual communi-
hydrants by providing water from
percent reduction of driving time for
tion of 2,000 dry hydrants through-
ties. Twin Valley RC&D area serves
existing sources.
road maintenance trucks in the pilot
out the state.
eight parishes area including Caddo,
Fire department tanker trucks
project.
As primary contractor for the
DeSoto. Grant, Natchitoches,
can tap these water supplies to fight
With water trucks averaging
statewide dry hydrant project,
Rapides, Red River, Sabine and
rural fires and reduce the amount of
approximately four miles per gallon
Trailblazer brings three years of
Vernon.
time a water tanker would spend
in fuel efficiency. the use of dry
qualified experience to the project
A dry hydrant is a non-pressur-
travelling back and forth from the
hydrants reflects substantial savings
for their successful pilot program
ized pipe system permanently
site of the fire to the originating
in fuel costs.
Dominic Beggan and Angela Norsworthy, from left, view a dry fire
hydrant in Natchitoches Parish. Every parish in Louisiana will be
given the opportunity to install 35 hydrants.
The Town Talk, Alexandria-Pineville, La.
Rural areas may get fire hydrants
By Kari Belvin
senting the district, told jurors
state Department of Natural
1992 when a map of potential
in the letter-writing campaign.
Staff reporter
that a dry hydrant is a non-pres-
Resources, she said, although the
locations was put together.
In environmental matters, the
A Rapides Parish Police Jury
surized pipe system which is per-
contract for this funding is still
Ms. Lantz explained that the
Grant Coordinating, Personnel
committee took preliminary
manently installed in a lake,
being finalized. Because the con-
1992 program was contracted
and Civil Service Committee
steps Tuesday to join a program
pond or stream in areas not ser-
tract has yet to be completed, Ms.
with a different coordinator and
heard a report on parish recy-
designed to bring fire hydrants to
viced by other hydrants.
Lantz could not comment on the
that the program has now been
cling from coordinator Randalle
rural areas.
These hydrants can be used as
amount of funding the state will
changed to Trailblazer.
Moore.
Through the program, materi-
alternate water sources for vol-
provide.
In other matters, the Federal
Mrs. Moore said the city of
als for 35 dry hydrants would be
unteer fire departments in rural
Once finalized, however, the
Programs Committee heard a
Pineville is in its fourth week of
provided at no cost to the parish
areas and also for road mainte-
money would be allocated to
proposal from jury President
a new curbside recycling pro-
by Twin Valley Resource
nance work, she said.
Trailblazer Conservation and
Myron Lawson for a grass-roots,
gram and is averaging 11 tons
Conservation and Development
If the jury agrees to take part
Development District in Ruston,
District in Natchitoches.
letter-writing campaign in oppo-
per week. This amount could
in the program, Twin Valley
which is coordinating the project
sition to proposed cuts in federal
double once commercial busi-
The Police Jury would be
would provide pipes, hydrant
statewide.
responsible for providing equip-
funding to Job Training
nesses begin adding their recy-
heads and strainers for 35 sites
Twin Valley is handling the
ment and labor for installing the
Partnership Act programs and
clable materials to the program,
around the parish, Ms. Lantz
program in 26 parishes, includ-
food and nutrition programs.
she said.
hydrants.
said.
ing Rapides, Ms. Lantz said.
Lawson said these proposed
In another environmental con-
Tressa K. Lantz, an
Money for the materials is to
The jury's Fire, Rural
AmeriCorps participant repre-
cuts in social programs would
cern, Albertia Roshto of the
be provided by a grant from the
Development and Agricultural
most hurt "the young, the poor
Tioga Environmental Action
Affairs Committee passed a reso-
and the needy."
Committee read a proclamation
lution in support of the project
Terry Bounds, parish director
from her organization before the
and named Juror Richard
of JTPA programs, said the
Public Health and Liaison
Billings, committee chairman, as
newly elected Congress has
Committee.
coordinator of the project for the
launched a "feeding frenzy" on
The proclamation stated that
parish.
social programs.
the organization is not anti-busi-
Billings said he would be
With the cuts, the JTPA's sum-
ness or anti-industry, but that it
putting together a committee of
mer program could lose 500 to 600
rural and VFD fire chiefs in the
is against any commercial enter-
jobs for young people, Bounds
parish to come up with plans for
prise that seeks to treat, store or
told jurors.
dispose of hazardous materials
the program.
He also pointed out that federal
He also said that the parish has
or that has to be permitted by the
funding for JTPA programs 15
state
been pursuing a system of dry
Department
of
years ago was $6 million. That
hydrants for rural areas since
Environmental Quality from
sum is now down to $2 million,
locating in Tioga.
and with the proposed cuts, could
In other matters, the commit-
fall to just over $1 million.
tees discussed creating a new
In light of the detrimental
Police Jury logo, giving the presi-
impact the cuts could have to the
dent authority to issue proclama-
parish, Lawson urged other
tions for historical events and to
jurors and the public to take part
recognize outstanding citizens.
RURAL ECONOMIC
& COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT
Marjorie Bethea talks to a local 4-H Club.
Richard talks with an enthusiastic group.
Wooldridge with a 504 Grant Applicant and Joel
Clean up your desk, Zelma!
A I
I
if
Ouic ken
Sandi is hard at work, or good at faking!
Naomi Boley points out
Focus on positive aspeds
community
through
Media
her ideas for communities.
(emmunity AUDRENESS Eyes
and When
with
Festivals
touth Involve MENT
Bobbie Ignont with the Council on Aging.
Americorps active in parish
National service program looking into housing problems
by Doug Armstrong
According to Bruce Norwood, county supervisor for
Enterprise Staff Writer
the local USDA RECD office, this is the first year of
The United States Department of Agriculture
the program and it has been a "learning experience for
(USDA) is a large supporter of Bill Clinton's
all of us."
AmeriCorps program, a national service initiative that
Bethea began her service in September of 1994. Her
allows diverse groups of people to perform services to
duties have included assisting individuals fill out gov-
meet human, environmental, pub-
ernmental grant and loan applications, responding to
Hometown
lic safety, and educational needs.
housing complaints, and distributing flyers for the
The program takes its inspira-
tion from the Depression-era Civilian Conservation
Corps (CCC), which put thousands of young people to
"In the future, (AmeriCorps) wants to
work restoring our natural environment.
expand to cover Morehouse Parish and
The new program retains the CCC's focus on the
environment, but recognizes that, as the challenges we
Ouachita Parish. If there are adjoining
face have become more diverse and more complex, so
parishes (in need), they can also assist
must our solutions.
The Forest Service, Rural Economic and
those other parishes."
Community Development (RECD), and Natural
- Bruce Norwood
Resources Conservation Service are three USDA agen-
Local USDA office
cies supporting the AmeriCorps program in Louisiana.
There are currently 21 USDA Americorps members
RECD's monthly home-buyers seminar, a service pro-
with diverse educational backgrounds giving a season
vided by the RECD to educate people concerning home
Americorp member in Bastrop
Photo by Doug Armstrong
of service to the people of rural Louisiana.
financing.
The RECD agency in Bastrop is one of nine RECD
AmeriCorps members are hired for an 11-month
Marjorie Bethea is Bastrop's only current RECD AmeriCorps member. Bethea helps assist
agency offices in Louisiana participating in the
service, which is renewable for a second term, but not
local residents fill out governmental grant and loan applications, respond to housing complaints,
AmeriCorps program.
to exceed two years of service. In exchange for their
and distributes flyers for the RECD's monthly home-buyers seminar, a service provided by the
"(The program) is new in Bastrop," stated Marjorie
service, AmeriCorps members are given a modest liv-
RECD to educate people concerning home financing.
Bethea, Bastrop's current RECD AmeriCorps member.
See SERVICE on Pg. 2
ing allowance, room and board,
the 504 Housing Program.
direct funds and guaranteed
wants to expand to cover
limited health care benefits,
In order to qualify for the
funds. Direct funds are admin-
Morehouse Parish and
and an education award to help
502 Program and the 504
istered through the local RECD
Ouachita Parish," Norwood
pay for college, graduate
Housing Program, the appli-
office. The guaranteed funds
school, or training programs.
added. "If there are adjoining
cant must be over the age of 18,
are initiated through local
RECD AmeriCorps members
parishes (in need), they can
with a good credit history, and
banks.
are actively involved in a vari-
also assist those other parish-
an income sufficient enough to
All farming funds must be
es."
ety of outreach efforts designed
repay the loan. Persons 62
used strictly for the operation
to improve the overall quality
Anyone 18 years of age or
years of age or older, with no
of the farm.
of life for rural residents.
older and a citizen or perma-
repayment abilities, may be eli-
Anyone in need of a housing
"It is supposed to be a ser-
nent resident of the U.S. inter-
gible to qualify for governmen-
or farming loan is encouraged
vice-oriented program, where-
ested in the AmeriCorps pro-
tal housing grants of up to
to contact the local RECD office
by our AmeriCorps representa-
$5,000.
gram may request an applica-
at (318) 281-1653 for more
tive could do service in the com-
tion by calling 1-800-94-
The RECD also offers two
information concerning appli-
munity," stated Norwood.
ACORPS, or write to:
farm loan programs: the Farm
cations and qualifications.
"If somebody has a problem
AmeriCorps* Office of
Operating Program and the
So far, the RECD
with housing, I am supposed to
Recruitment, 9th Floor, 1201
Farm Ownership Program. The
AmeriCorps program has been
go out and check it out and get
New York Avenue, NW,
programs are available to farm-
a successful one.
Washington, DC 20525.
January 11, 1995
Enterprise Community topic at Rotary
Program benefits could arrive this spring
By Hugh Matthews
Staff Writer
Farmers Home Administration
Rural Coordinator Mike Taylor
was in Ferriday Thursday speak-
ing about the Enterprise Com-
munity (EC) which includes Clay-
ton and Ferriday.
"We' quite fortunate that one
of these Enterprise Community
designations includes Concor-
dia,' Taylor told members of the
Rotary Club.
Taylor said the Macon Ridge
area should begin receiving ben-
efits of the EC by spring.
"I would hope that money will
begin to flow in this process with
the next 90 days. I'll be disap-
pointed if it doesn't," he said.
Areas included in the Enter-
prise Community are eligible for
$3 million in federal block grants
MIKE TAYLOR (center) spoke to the Ferriday Rotary Club on Thursday. Taylor is the
for social services.
coordinator of the Farmers Home Administration Office of Rural Development. Taylor said the
Taylor said this area was a
natural to be recognized due to
Macon Ridge area should see benefits of the $3 million Enterprise Community by March. Seen
its poverty and high unemploy-
here with Taylor from left to right are Sam Williams Jr., Ferriday Mayor Glen McGlothin, Rep.
ment.
Bryant Hammett, Taylor, Buddy Spillers of Macon Ridge Economic Development District,
"Unfortunately those are the
Clayton Mayor Wilbert Washington and Americorps Representative Sandy Eley. (Sentinel
things we excel at," Taylor said.
photo)
"We lead the country in everyone
of those terrible categories."
the tip of the ice berg," Taylor
cluding Buddy Spillers, execu-
Ridge board members and Sam
Taylor said the Macon Ridge
said.
tive director, Glen McGlothinand
Williams, chairman of the advi-
Economic Development Region's
He also urged Macon Ridge
Wilbert Washington, Macon
sory council.
application offered answers to
officials not to view the EC as
the problems.
temporary refiel.
He said those responses were
"We want this to be something
critical in the USDA's selection
that returns this area to eco-
process.
nomic prosperity," he said.
"Emphasis was to be on unique
"I don't know that this is an
solutions to those problems,"
opportunity that will ever come
Taylor said.
back around," Taylor said. not-
He said the EC funds can lead
Page 8 The Bastrop (LA) Daily Enterprise - Wednesday, April 26, 1995
ing the present budget cutting
to additional funding and eco-
mood in Washington.
nomic development from a vari-
A number of Macon Ridge offi-
ety of sources.
cials attended the meeting in-
"If this is handled properly,
and I have every reason to be-
lieve it will be, $3 million is just
SAMPON
Proclamation signed by mayor
Photo by P.J. Jon
Bastrop Mayor Clarence Hawkins signed a proclamation declaring Tuesday, April 2
at National Day of Service. Pictured at the signing are Marjorie Bethea and Bruc
Norwood. representing the Rural Economic Community Development, formerly know
as Home Administration.
TRAINING SESSIONS
Grant Writing
First Aid/CPR
Defensive Driving
Self-Esteem
Photography
Ethics
Sexual Hazassment Prevention
Effective Presentations
HIV/Aids Awareness
COMMUNITY
SERVICE
GRAND OPENING
HOPE YOUTH RANCH
Angela Norsworthy, Carl Collins, Judy Ned, Susie Mullins,
Lt. Governor Melinda Schwegmann, Aminul Mahfuz, Alicia
Trissler, Tressa Lantz, Dominic Beggan.
February 21
Organized by Angela Nossworthy
HOPE YOUTH RANCH
Hope Youth Ranch, Inc.
MEDICAL DIRECTOR
Carlos Irizarry, M.D.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
V. Lynn Martinez, President
Buddy Calcot
Minden, La.
Farmerville, I
James Keith Aulds, Vice President
John Hamby
Farmerville, La.
Ruston, La.
Delores Winder
Shreveport, La
The Board of Directors and Staff of Hope Youth Ranch would like to giv
HOPE YOUTH RANCH, INC.
special thanks and acknowledge the generous contributions of the
following:
Schumpert Medical Center
Minden and South Webster Chan
of Commerce
TG's Nursery/Landscape Lawn Care
Minden Bank & Trust, Co.
GRAND OPENING
Coca-Cola Bottling Co. of Minden
Specialty Oil of Shreveport
Conco Food Service
Glaze and Gardener Landscaping
Minden Market
Remington Suites
Harvest Foods
LL Brenton Lumber Co.
FEBRUARY 21, 1995
OJ Super Foods
Oak Hill Bar-B-Q Sauce
Cathey Construction
Anonymous Contributors
For I know the plans I have for you,
Town & Country Nursing Center
The Extra Mile
"declares the Lord," Plans to prosper
you and not to barm you. Plans to give
Americorps
Hill Country Youth Ranch
you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
A
UNIVERSITY
OAKA
BAN-K
AmeriCorps members volunteer
TREE PLANTING
IN TALLULAH
Carl Collins, Alicia Trissler, and Anthony Bridgewater (District Conservationist, Tallulah).
Mazch 3
Organized by Carl Collins
AmeriCa planting in city park
By Scott Cummins
Staff writer
The U.S. Department of Agri-
culture Rural Development pro-
Water Conservation District.
Anyone 17 or older can partic-
gram of AmeriCorp has a con-
Alysia Trisseler, an AmeriCorp
ipate in the AmeriCorp program.
cern for Madison Parish and it
member from Winnfield, said
The program offers up to $4,725
plans to help the community as
AmeriCorp was started by Presi-
for tuition or loan forgiveness, a
best it can, officials said.
dent Clinton on Sept. 12, 1994,
living stipend during service,
AmeriCorp members are in
as an alternative to the Peace
basic health insurance and a
Tallulah for their Area One Clus-
Corp.
child care allowance. People who
ter meeting and were at the city
"The main difference between
join AmeriCorp can work with a
park Friday to plant some trees
the Peace Corp and AmeriCorp is
variety of services including edu-
to help improve the park.
AmeriCorp was developed to
cation, public safety, human ser-
"We are planting River Birches
help communities in the United
vices and the environment.
around the park. They are in a
States, while the Peace Corp was
dormant state right now," said
developed to help communities
Anthony Bridgewater of USDA
in the Third World countries,"
Natural Resource Conservation
she said.
Service. Bridgewater said now is
Trisseler said the program
the best time to plant trees.
allows students and graduates to
The trees planted were donat-
help communities grow and to
ed by the Madison Soil and
put the community spirit back
into the community.
Planting trees
AmeriCorps is having it's Area One Cluster meeting in Madison Parish this month. On Friday, March 3,
the AmeriCorps members planted River Birches at the city park. Pictured from left to right are Alicia
Trissler, AmeriCorps; Anthony Bridgewater, Natural Resources Conservation Service; Stan Livingston,
director of Talluluh Housing Authority; Tallulah Mayor Theodore Lindsey; Carl Collins, AmeriCorps;
Angela Norsworthy, AmeriCorps; and Susan Mullins, AmeriCorps. (Madison Journal, March 8, 1995)
JOEL BERG'S VISIT
DEPARTMENT
STATES DINITED ********* OF
Mazch 30 - 31
"AmeriCorps is soing to live
" die, not based on lofty
speeches from people like me
from Washington, " really
because of anything we do in
Washington. It's soing to
live " die based on what you
do."
-Joel Bess,
Director of National
Service for USDA
USDA/AmeriCorps Site Visit - Louisiana
Joel Berg, Director of National Service
U.S. Department of Agriculture
March 30-31, 1995
Itinerary
Wednesday, March 29, 1995 - Overnight in Natchez, Mississippi
Thursday, March 30, 1995
6:00 a.m. Depart Natchez, Mississippi for Winnsboro, Louisiana
8:00 a.m. Arrive Winnsboro Town Hall - Winnsboro, Louisiana
8:00 - 8:15 Welcome and Introductions - - Alan Dorian (FS)
AmeriCorps Members:
Community Planning (FS):
Judith Ned
Alicia Trissler
Tourism (FS):
Susan Mullins
Dry Fire Hydrants (RECD):
Angela Norsworthy
Tressa Lantz
Dominic Beggan
Robin Torrence
RECD:
Bobbie Ignont
Marcus Spencer
Marjorie Bethea
Lee Wooldridge
Zelma Powell
Wydette Williams
Naomi Boley
Kimberly Kitterlin
Agency Personnel:
FS:
Alan Dorian, AmeriCorps Coordinator
Liz Crane, Regional AmeriCorps Coordinator
NRCS:
Donna Remides, RC&D Coordinator
Holly Martien, AmeriCorps Program Assistant
RECD:
Richard Hoffpauir, AmeriCorps Coordinator
Local Dignitaries
Thursday, March 30, 1995 (Continued)
8:15 - 9:00
Cluster 1 Site Project Presentations - - Community Planning,
Tourism Planning, Dry Fire Hydrants (site visit later in morning),
RECD (site visit later in day)
9:00 - 9:45
AmeriCorps Orientation by Joel Berg for Cluster Group 1
9:45 - 10:15
Travel to dry hydrant site
10:15 - 11:00
Site Visit - Dry hydrant demonstration by
Assistant Chief Gary Piro - Mangham Fire Protection District
NRCS AmeriCorps Members:
Angela Norsworthy
Tressa Lantz
Dominic Beggan
Robin Torrence
11:00 - 11:30
Travel back to Winnsboro
11:30 - 12:15
Lunch
12:15 - 1:15
Site Visit - Winnsboro County Office: 504 Loan Grant
Recipient
RECD AmeriCorps Member:
Lee Woolridge
RECD Personnel:
Paul Eiland, District Director
Steve Ferrell, County Supervisor
1:15 - 3:15
Travel to Winnfield
3:15 - 4:00
Site Visit - Winnfield Political Musuem
FS AmeriCorps Member: Alicia Trissler
Community Representatives
4:00 - 5:30
Travel to Alexandria
Friday, March 31, 1995
8:00 - 9:00
Meet in USDA Conference Room, NRCS State Office with
Agency Representatives of FS, NRCS, and RECD
Alan Dorian, FS AmeriCorps Coordinator
Dean McAlister, FS Forest Supervisor's Representative
Donald W. Gohmert, NRCS State Conservationist
Billy Moore, NRCS AmeriCorps Coordinator
Holly Martien, NRCS AmeriCorps Program Assistant
Richard Hoffpauir, RECD AmeriCorps Coordinator
John Harpe, RECD Chief, Administrative Programs
9:00 - 10:00
Cluster 2 Site Project Presentations Farm*A*Syst (site visit
later in day), Timber Bridge Project
NRCS AmeriCorps Members:
Christie LeBleu
Carl Collins
Sobrena Lewis
FS AmeriCorps Member:
Aminul Mahfuz
RECD AmeriCorps Member:
Henry Rosenthal
Sandi Eley
10:00 - 11:00
AmeriCorps Orientation by Joel Berg for Cluster Group 2
11:00 - 12:00
Lunch
12:00 - 1:45
Travel to Crowley, Louisiana
1:45 - 3:00
Site Visit - Farm Syst Assessment with Landowner
Landowner - Vaughn LeJeune, Crowley, Louisiana
3:00
Travel to Baton Rouge
Metro
Saturday
April 1, 1995
D
AmeriCorps program
Alexandria Daily Cown Calk
making a difference
By Mark Watson
Staff reporter
AmeriCorps - a voluntary
City
but they were still a little hesi-
service organization that has
tant."
been called the domestic version
Ms. Lewis earned her degree in
of the Peace Corps - should not
animal science in 1994 at
be a liberal or a conservative
Continued from D-1
Southern University.
issue. Joel Berg said Friday.
bridges in rural areas. Projects
Dominic Beggan of Jennings
"Is it liberal or conservative to
are complete or under way in
said AmeriCorps is designed to
improve rural fire protection?"
Oklahoma and Mississippi.
instill a sense of civic duty, and
asked Berg, the U.S. Department
Not only does each bridge
his pride in his participation
of Agriculture's National Service
improve transportation. it helps
centers on that idea.
director. "Is it left wing or right
build the timber industry,
An immigrant to Louisiana
wing to improve the water sup-
Mahfuz said.
from Northern Ireland. Beggan
ply for farmers?"
In another program. Boyce res-
works to install dry fire hydrants
One USDA AmeriCorps pro-
ident Henry Rosenthal helps
in Beauregard. Allen. Calcasieu.
gram is designed to build 35 dry
organize rural economic develop-
Jeff Davis and Cameron parish.
fire hydrants in each parish of
ment.
es.
Louisiana. A dry fire hydrant
He is working to bring a Dallas
"The reason I joined
makes it easier for fire engines to
high-tech firm into the Boyce
AmeriCorps is to try to help
pump water out of surface ponds.
area, creating as many as 70 jobs.
things get done." Beggan said.
Another program actively pur-
He is also helping a Cheneyville
"People are always complaining.
sued in central Louisiana is
family establish a small rest
We're getting off our rear ends
Farm-A-Syst. in which farmers
Joel Berg: AmeriCorps is not
home for veterans without fami-
and doing something about it.
learn how to avoid risks to well
"another big government give-
lies.
"We're trying to rekindle a
water caused by various agricul-
tural practices.
away. This is part of a big
Rosenthal said he plans to use
sense of civic duty. Ten years
movement."
the college benefit to finish a
from now. I hope I can drive past
In exchange for providing this
degree in criminal justice at
a dry fire hydrant and say I did
service, each AmeriCorps volun-
that. and maybe it saved a life.'
teer receives about $12,000 a
Washington," Berg told the
Grambling State University.
AmeriCorps members. "It's
Sobrena Lewis. an AmeriCorps
year. plus about $4,700 toward
member based in Natchitoches.
college tuition - or has that
going to live or die based on what
you do."
said people she has contacted
much lopped off his student
AmeriCorps has made a differ-
about the Farm-A-Syst program
loans.
Berg delivered a pep talk to
ence in Louisiana and the South.
were wary of government.
Louisiana AmeriCorps members
said Don Gohmert, the USDA's
"Some people, I felt. were kind
state conservationist for
of skeptical. because it's govern-
Friday at the federal depart-
Louisiana.
ment." she said. "They weren't
ment's state headquarters in
very comfortable that it was a
Alexandria.
"They've brought a different
"This is not just another big
dimension than we were able to
government program."
When it was over. "they were
government giveaway," he said.
provide through our ongoing
satisfied with the program itself.
"This is part of a big movement.
programs," Gohmert said.
You are proving the doubters
"For instance, we are assisting
wrong.
with the statewide dry hydrant
"The Washington press corps
project. We can provide the tech-
is used to the old ways of pork,
nical engineering support, but
large government programs. and
we don't have the resources to
not expecting much from citi-
work directly with all the police
zens. and this is a program that
juries, volunteer fire depart-
only works with citizen involve-
ments and local people to tell
ment.
them about what they need to do
"People don't trust govern-
to bring dry hydrants to their
ment. and because people are so
communities.
cynical, that is precisely why
"It's a real assistance to a state
you are so important. You are
like Louisiana, where we have
the link to bring government
high fire insurance costs,
back to the people."
because we don't have fire
The program is fighting for its
hydrants."
fiscal life. as Republican con-
Reducing the spread of fire fur-
gressmen call for cuts in various
thers Gohmert's mission to con-
domestic programs.
serve soil. Burned forests result
"AmeriCorps is going to live or
in more soil erosion.
die. not based on lofty speeches
In another program,
from people like me from
AmeriCorps member Aminul
Washington. or really because of
Mahfuz. based in Pineville. helps
anything we really do in
communities build timber
Please see PROGRAM. D-2.
After delivering a pep talk to Louisiana AmeriCorps
members, Berg visits project sites to view the
tangible results of their efforts. Above photo: Joel
Berg and Lee Wooldridge visit with a recipient of a
504 Loan which provides funding for necessary home
improvements. Right & Below: Joel watches a dry
hydrant demonstration while AmeriCorps members
update him on the program's progress.
FRANKLIN
PARISH
CATFISH
FESTIVAL
DAN
ДО
/
LIMBO
COURT
April 8
Organized by:
Judy Ned & Sandi Eley
$
ил BETA
POWBORS
AMINTY allen
AmeriCorps
Getting Things
WELTA
MM GREET STRVICE
Done for America
⑉ NSKIA
. RICE
⑉ HIBLE ELLIMITOR
EX-RTEVE THOMPIRE
RELIA PARISH
TAL YEA TN USA
an SEX
I
M&M
APRIL 25
NATIONAL DAY
OF SERVICE
SEKEEP
A
STATE
Organized by Dominie Beggan & Angela Norsworthy
Crime and violence
AmeriCorps' objective is to help prevent crime, violence in U.S.
Dear Ann Landers: A few months back,
perfect day to begin. - Eli J. Segal.
you got a letter about crime and violence from
Corporation for National Service.
someone who was "Burned Up in
Assistant to the President. Washington
Connecticut." You asked your readers for sug-
"What a splendid
Dear Eli Segal: What a splendid
gestions. I'd like to suggest national service.
idea. Thank you for
Thank you for passing it on. For more
AmeriCorps, the new "domestic Peace
Corps," began less than a year ago. Already,
passing it on.
mation, readers can write to: Eli
Corporation for National Service, 120
20,000 young Americans have committed to
York Ave., N.W., Washington. D.C. 2052
serve full-time for a year, meeting challenges
Ann Landers
in communities across America. Among their
many objectives, none is more important
Creators' Syndicate
than preventing crime and violence.
National Day of
One group of AmeriCorps members
patrolled parks and recreation areas in New
sure that mothers in under-served communi-
Service Observed
York City last summer. The New York Police
ties get prenatal care, and teaching grade
Department reports that, for the first time in
school children to read. They are joined by
Both Farmerville and Downsville
memory, there were no assaults in these
half a million seniors giving their experience
mayors Willie Davis, Jr. and Reggie
areas. Another group of AmeriCorps mem-
and energies to communities through the
Skains proclaimed Tuesday, April
bers in Pittsburgh helped a community sur-
National Senior Service Corps. Thousands of
25, as National Day of Service for
vive the death of a high school student caught
school-age and college students in Learn and
Serve America are making service a part of
their towns.
in a crossfire. According to school officials,
the members prevented a likely retaliation
their learning experience.
That proclamation came through
that would have had monumental impact on
Today, April 25, these three federally
a request from Angela Norsworthy,
the entire east side of the city. A third group
administered national service programs -
AmeriCorps/USDA member serving
of AmeriCorps members in Atlanta is teach-
AmeriCorps, the Senior Corps, and Learn and
ing middle school children how to resolve
Serve America - are coming together to par-
Union Parish and seven other parishes.
their conflicts without resorting to violence.
ticipate in a National Day of Service. They'll
Norsworthy said that across the
We can't stop crime and violence unless we
do community service projects alongside
nation, AmeriCorps members joined
address related problems that are just as big
members of Congress, civic leaders. universi-
with other organizations and comm-
and troubling. In addition to their work to
ty presidents and millions of ordinary people
unities to perform joint community
prevent and control crime, the first 20,000
who volunteer their time because they want
service projects on that day.
AmeriCorps members are also building
to help make communities safer and stronger.
homes for and with working families, making
For those who have never served, April 25 is a
Sixteen AmeriCorps/USDA
members in north Louisiana visited
schools to provide a day of service
by helping in the classroom.
The Louisiana Tech University
graduate was assigned to Trailblazer
RC&D in Ruston to assist with the
Statewide Dry Hydrant Program
which will install 2,015 dry hydrants
across the state.
(The Gazette, May 1, 1995)
Photo by Sandra Brown
Angela Norsworthy (left) an Ameri/Corps/USDA member
serving Webster and seven other parishes, has asked
Minden Mayor Bill Robertson (right) to proclaim today as
National Day of Service for Minden. Norsworthy, a
graduate of Louisiana Tech University, was assigned to
Trailblazer RC&D in Ruston to assist with the Statewide
Dry Hydrant Program which will install more than 2,000
dry hydrants across the state. According to R. O. Machen
Jr., Webster Parish Dry Hydrant chairman, Norsworthy is
a real asset to Trailblazer in her help with the statewide Dry
Hydrant Project in Webster Parish.
and
Leader photo by CARLA PAMPE
Day of Service
Across the nation, AmeriCorps members joined with other organizations and communities to
perform joint community service projects on the Day on National Service, April 25. sixteen USDA
AmeriCorps members in north Louisiana visited schools to provide a day of service by helping in
the classroom.
AmeriCorps members Angela Norsworthy, a graduate of Louisiana Tech University, and Alicia
Trissler, a graduate of Northwestern State University spent the day at Choudrant Elementary School
helping out in whatever areas they were needed. They alphabetized card catalog material, ran errands
and listened to children read their favorite stories in the library.
Here, Trissler (second from left) reads a book to 6th grade student Jennifer Hogan, 11, while
Norsworthy (second from right) calls out vocabulary words to 6th grade student Chris Rozelle, 12.
Ruston Mayor Hilda Taylor Perritt proclaimed April 25 at the Day for National Service in Ruston
to recognize the efforts of volunteers. (Ruston Daily Leader, April 30, 1995)
ALLEN PARISH FORESTRY
AWARENESS WEEK
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE FOLLOWING
FRIENDS AND SPONSORS
Ext Service
hale - Repire -
Powell Lumber Co
Allen hards Rén there
JA BUT of
ROY 0 Martin
Alles Parish School M
JR Wood Products
SLAY MURRY
Affert Parch Sherif Dept
JUANITA CRAWF ORD
Sensite of Americans les
Bosto Cascade
KING CORP
SOUTHERN P
THE
Godustant Products
LA Office of Ferestry
Tillman Gurfle
CLOUD CONST
LA PACIFIC CORP
TL JAN
Crowell Limber Co
OBERLIN FFA
USDA OCG ALL
ELIZABETH FFA
Lumber Mara
Williams M
DRY HYDRANTS KICK-OFF
Alexandria Daily Town Talk
The Statewide
Dry Hydrants
Briefs
Program
Dry hydrant field day
WINNFIELD - The kick off
April 28, 1995
meeting for the statewide Dry
Hydrants Program will be next
Friday, beginning at 10:30 a.m.
The field day will be held in
Winnfield, LA.
the Forestry Building located at
the Winn Parish Fairgrounds.
The field day is a chance for
local officials to gain a better
understanding about the instal-
lation and importance of dry
hydrants in rural Louisiana.
Parish project coordinators,
fire protection personnel, police
jurors, road supervisors and oth-
ers have been invited to attend.
Trailblazer RC&D of Ruston
was awarded a $998,984 contract
from the Department of Natural
Resources to install 2,015 dry
hydrants throughout the state.
They are the primary contractor
for the project, which is estimat-
ed to cost $1.8 million. The addi-
tional money will come from in-
kind donations.
Dry hydrants are non-pressur-
ized pipe systems permanently
installed in existing lakes, ponds
or streams. They solve the prob-
lem of hauling water over long
distances by providing natural,
unprocessed water for use.
They may improve rural fire
protection by reducing the time
a water tanker would spend trav-
eling. The reduction could
reduce insurance rates in those
areas.
Organized by Angela Nossworthy
Trailblazers head project
$998,000 to fund dry hydrants in Louisiana
Staff Report
protection system through the installa-
solve the problem of hauling water over
tion of 2,000 dry hydrants all over the
long distances by providing natural,
Louisiana's rural population and lo-
state.
unprocessed water for use.
cal government agencies have received
As primary contractor for the project,
Trailblazer Coordinator P. Ellzey
good news about rural road mainte-
Trailblazer brings three years of experi-
Simmons pointed out that the multiple
nance and fire protection with the an-
ence to the effort, following the organi-
benefits awarded by dry hydrants in-
nouncement of the approval of $998,984
zations successful pilot program that
clude energy savings to consumers and
for the implementation of a statewide
was completed in 1992.
road maintenance departments and im-
dry hydrant project.
According to Trailblazer officials,
proving rural fire protection and lower
The announcement came from Jack
approval for this current project came
of fire insurance ratings.
McClanahan, secretary of the Louisi-
about through the combined efforts of
Tanker trucks can tap these water
ana Department of Natural Resources,
Trailblazer, DNR, area RC&D councils
supplies to fight rural fires and reduce
for the funds which are oil overcharge
as well as parish police juries.
the amount of time to supply water for
money.
A dry hydrant is a non-pressurized
rural fire-fighting efforts.
The dry hydrant project will be coor-
pipe system permanently installed in
Water is also key to helping to main-
dinated by Trailblazer Inc. of Ruston
existing lakes, ponds or streams.
tain the numerous gravel roads in some
and will improve the state's rural fire
Properly installed, dry hydrants can
rural parishes, Simmons said.
COASTAL
RESTORATION
IN GALLIANO
GOLDEN MEADOW
PLANT MATERIAL CENTER
May 8 - 12
USDA/AmeriCorps
Getting Things Done at the
Plant Materials Center
Galliano, Louisiana
Schedule of Service
Monday, May 8
Travel Day
3:00 p.m.
PMC Orientation & Tour
4:00 p.m.
Reflections on Service
Tuesday, May 9
7:30 a.m.
Load Plants
Marshhay Cordgrass Layout
Wednesday, May 10
7:30 a.m.
Travel to Timbalier Island
Initiate Planting
Thursday, May 11
7:30 a.m.
Spartina alterniflora
Seeding Establishment
Friday, May 12
7:30 a.m.
Group Discussions
8:30 a.m.
Closing
Travel day
HI
1
Φ
Ф
O
ore
1
D
D
FLOOD RELIEF
BOB
EFFORTS IN
NEW ORLEANS
Front Row: Dominic Beggan, Mrs. LaChappelle (flood victim), Kim Kitterlin, Naomi Boley,
Sandi Eley. Back Row: Henry Rosenthal, Wydette Williams, Carl Collins.
May 30 - June 2
Organized by Robin Torrence
Team Leader: Henry Rosenthall
STATE OF LOUISIANA
Office OF THE Lieutenant Governor
MELINDA Schwegmann
P.O. BOX 44243
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR
BATON rouge, LOUISIANA 70804
AND
(504) 342-7009
COMMISSIONER
FAX (504) 342-1949
DEPARTMENT OF CULTURE,
RECREATION AND TOURISM
July 7, 1995
Mr. Richard B. Hoffpauir
RECD
3727 Government Street
Alexandria, LA 71302
Dear Mr. Hoffpauir:
On behalf of the Louisiana Serve Commission and AmeriCorps, I would like to extend
my thanks for your assistance with helping the victims of floods in the New Orleans area. Your
contribution to the flood recovery efforts was invaluable.
I trust your experience with helping all those in need was as rewarding for you as it was
to the victims you assisted. You are truly an example of AmeriCorps' pledge of "getting things
done."
Thank you for your continued dedicated service to our country and state.
Very sincerely,
Melinda Schulgmann
MELINDA SCHWEGMANN
Lieutenant Governor
-
A
&
D
D
LEWOO
OF ORIGIN
ROLET
Helen alexis
223 Hickory Due
Harahor, La 70123
DRLEARS : <F
1900
Mr. Queten J. Cormier
State Director ЭМНА
3727 Government st
Alexandria, La 71302
Th onl you
Dear mr. Cornia
Nexy Callins Rosenthal
Rolin Tarrence
no Words can
Earl o Kimberly Ketterlie
Ever express how grateful
Dominac wegdette Beggar Welliom Is
I am for the worderful
Sandi k
help I received from
Thank
Richard Hoffpaur and her
wackers. To know that there
are care when
You
Other Can not help themselves
is something you Can never
forget They were like
quardion angles
my again heart Think and may you God from
Helex alexka
Bless each are of you
"MILES FOR MEALS"
June 16
Concordia Council on Aging
Ferriday, Louisiana
PR
LIMIT
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+
IPM
PUBLIC
W
My
AWARENESS
LOGISIANA ASSN If ICAD CHINCES
RC&D Activities In Louisiana
И
llenge a new
United States
ation of young
Louisians's Team USDA
Getting Things Dote for Ameries
- States
Team
Chirlwine
-
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C
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1111 A
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16A THE NATCHITOCHES TIMES Thursday, April 27, 1995
USDA Americorps: Getting things done for rural Louisiana
The United States Department of
proposals and brochures to increase
have an opportunity to develop vol-
Just Kids" and "AgrAbility" pro-
community activities. Some of the
bers will be involved in the Franklin
Agriculture (USDA) is a big sup-
tourism in the delta region. They are
untary groundwater protection
jects designed to assist rural
more recent activities which
Parish Catfish Festival. Southern
porter of the AmeriCorps program,
also helping the local school boards
action plans through the Farm *A*
America. USDA RECD AmeriCorps
involved USDA AmeriCorps mem-
University's Livestock and Poultry
President Clinton's national service
with projects to increase ACT scores
Syst program. a program designed
members are Bobbie Ignot,
bers include volunteering their ser-
Show and a shoreline stabilization
initiative that allows diverse groups
and establish tutoring programs to
to help rural landowners protect
Ferriday; Marcus Spencer, Tallulah;
vices at local fairs and exhibitions,
planting effort in Galliano.
of people to perform critical services
help students prepare for the GED
their drinking water supplies. NRCS
Marjorie Bethea, Bastrop: Lee
the National Association of
USDA policy ensures participa
to meet human, environmental, pub-
exam. Alica Trissler is working with
AmeriCorps members conduct
Wooldridge, Winnsboro, Zelma
Conservation Districts annual meet-
tion by all persons in USDA pro
lic safety and educational needs. The
Winn Parish officials to prepare
assessment surveys, create an
Powell, Lake Providence; Wydette
ing in New Orleans and the grand
grams and activities without regard
Forest Service, Rural Economic and
grant proposals for a Head-Start pro-
awareness of farmstead activities,
Williams, Lake Providence; Henry
opening of the Hope Youth Ranch in
to race. color. national origin. reli
Community Development and
gram and a program in folk art edu-
promote an understanding of
Rosenthal, Alexandria: Naomi
the Minden area. Members have
gion. six. age, marital status or
Natural Resources Conservation
cation. She is also assisting the
groundwater protection, identify
Boley, Rayville; Sandi Eley,
also assisted local Chambers of
handicap. For more information
Service are three USDA agencies
Winnfield Forestry Museum in
sources of technical and financial
Winnsboro; and Kimberly
Commerce, Councils on Aging,
about the USDA AmeriCorps pro
supporting the AmeriCorps program
meeting the certification guidelines
assistance and aid in developing per-
Kitterling, Jonesville.
commodity distribution centers. and
grams contact Alan Dorian
in Louisiana.
of the American Association of
sonal voluntary action plans. USDA
In addition to their specific
other non-profit agencies in their
AmeriCorps Coordinator. USDA
AmeriCorps has been called the
Museums.
NRCA AmeriCorps members work-
assignments, USDA AmeriCorps
respective activities. In the coming
Forest Service. at 318-473-7177 ())
President's domestic version of the
Seven USDA Natural Resources
ing on this project are Carl Collins.
members also help with various
months, USDA AmeriCorps mem-
Billy Moore at 318-473-7768.
Peace Corps. There are 21 USDA
Conservation Service (NRCS)
Tallulah; Sobrena Lewis.
AmeriCorps members with diverse
AmeriCorps volunteers are working
Natchitoches; and Christie LeBleu,
education backgrounds giving a sea-
to increase rural fire protection and
Crowley.
son of service to the people of rural
helping to develop individual
Rural Economic and Community
Louisiana. These members are
groundwater protection action plans
Development (RECD) AmeriCorps
assisting with tourism development,
for landowners in various rural areas
members are actively involved in a
community planning, rural fire pro-
of the state.
variety of outreach efforts designed
tection. groundwater protection.
To help in rural fire protection,
to improve the overall quality of life
timber bridge replacement, farm
four USDA NRCS AmeriCorps par-
for rural residents. RECD
safety and USDA loan and grant
ticipants are assisting in the plan-
AmeriCorps members have taken a
programs.
ning and installation of over 2,000
very active role in promoting the
Four USDA Forest Service (FS)
dry fire hydrants in Louisiana. The
availability of various RECD loan
AmeriCorps members are involved
hydrants are structures located at
and grant programs for both agricul-
in various projects across Louisiana.
ponds or reservoirs that provide a
tural and residential interests.
Aminul Mahfuz is working in a 17-
source of water for rural fire districts
Members have also been very active
parish area to assist local communi-
when no regular fire hydrants are
in efforts related to recent
Lt. Governor Melinda Schwegmann addressed the AmeriCorps members during her speech at the grand
ties to prepare grant proposals for
available.
USDA
NRCS
Empowerment Zones/Enterprise
opening of the Hope Youth Ranch. Shown with the Lt. Governor are Angela Norsworthy, Carl Collins
future timber bridge funding and to
AmeriCorps members working to
Communities (EZ/EC) designa-
Judith Ned, Susan Mullins, Aminul Mahfuz, Tressa Lantz, Alicia Trissler and Dominic Beggan.
provide the technical engineering
increase rural fire protection are
tions.
assistance necessary to promote tim-
Angela Norsworthy, Ruston: Tressa
They have also been involved in
ber bridges as one solution to trans-
Lantz. Natchitoches; Dominic
promoting the Business and Industry
portation problems in economically
Beggan. Jenning; and Robin
(B & I) programs with lenders in
depressed areas. Judith Ned and
Torrence. Denham Spring.
their respective areas. RECD
Susan Mullins are helping northeast
With NRCS AmeriCorps mem-
AmeriCorps members will be taking
delta communities prepare grant
bers assistance, many rural families
a role in promoting "Farm Safety 4
AZO
LOUISINA
MELLOL
HELLO!
ALICIA
CANDIDS
ST.LOUIS
GETTING THINGS DONE
AMERICORPS
A
XO
MERICORE
DEPARTMENT NATIONALS
11
I
I
I
TEPHENS COURT
JIMBO
STARTS
SCRAPBOOK
COMMITTEE:
ANGELA NORSWORTHY
ALICIA TRISSLER
TRESSA LANTZ
KIMBERLY KITTERLIN
0 0
3
Site by Site Accomplishments in Environmental Projects
Projects are managed by the Forest Service (FS), the Natural Resources Conservation
Service (NRCS), and the Agricultural Research Service (ARS).
NRCS Kansas, statewide
Members worked at reservoirs severely damaged by the floods of 1993.
At Webster, Members fixed 2 miles of fence, cleaned 5 miles of shoreline, removed 160
damaged trees, and dug footing for Boy Scout cabin.
At Kannopolis, Members cleared 3 miles of trails, dug and replanted 40 trees, wired and
weighted 40 tires to create fish habitat, tied together, weighted, and dumped into lake 60
trees to create fish habitat, captured prairie dogs and relocated them in flood damaged area,
built two nesting structures, and cleared park area from debris from ice storm.
At Perry, Members repaired 50 picnic tables, restored four restrooms, repaired one bridge,
maintained several miles of road, cleaned up ice storm damage in nearby Valley Falls, created
five brushpiles for habitat, trimmed 3 miles of trees on dikes, and built and sunk three fish
habitats.
At Milford, Members cleaned outdoor learning classroom for Wakefield School, District,
cleaned debris from 2 miles of wildlife and park roads, posted signs on 15 miles of roads,
salvaged seven tons of fish, stocked trout at Tuttle Creek, cleaned storm damage at
Pottawatome State Park, and completed deer surveys.
At Glen Elder, Members placed 40 cedar trees in the lake for fish habitat, fixed 15 gates,
fixed 290 miles of fence, built three back drops for hunter target shooting, conducted two
wildlife surveys, posted 300 signs on 75 miles of park roads, repaired five vehicles, rebuilt
a toilet, and filled 25 bags with grass seed.
In Western Kansas, Members began repairing, rehabilitating, and re-planting windbreaks
created by the original Civilian Conservation Corps.
NRCS Western Oklahoma
Restored 15 windbreaks on 7.5 miles of land in five counties. Four of the windbreaks have
already been responsible for decreasing soil erosion. Held educational seminars on
windbreaks to six different groups. One quarter of the counties in Western Oklahoma have
now received requests for windbreak restoration.
4
NRCS Texas Coast (Baytown)
Members cleaned and mowed five, 10-meter by 75-meter ponds, vegetated two acres of
marsh demonstration projects, harvested and threshed by hand 4 acres of smooth cordgrass
seed, harvested by hand and then planted 800 mangrove seeds, harvested and planted
2,0000 Scirpus robustus seeds, harvested, threshed, and planted 1,0000 Scirpus
californicus seeds. Members also repaired 1,000 feet of fence at the Armand Bayou Nature
Center.
Members also assisted the Red Cross in flood relief efforts in the Houston area by loading
and unloading trucks and delivering supplies to local flood victims.
NRCS Metropolitan Atlanta, GA
Members conducted water quality monitoring at thirty locations throughout the Big Creek
Watershed. Stenciled ten percent of the drains the City of Alpharetta with no dumping signs.
In one neighborhood, Members benefitted 400 residents by cleaning eight acres, mulching
1,000 feet of walking trails, placing three waterbars into trails, seeded 1/2 acre, and carried
away six dump trucks of trash. They cleaned two city parks, removing two dump trucks full
of trash; performed streambank stabilization work on a 100 feet by 50 feet section of the
Chattahoochee River; built a greenhouse for use as a plant materials center and began
constructing a nature trail at the North Metro Technical Institute in Acworth.
Boston, MA
Members were recruited and selected for a program that began on December 5, 1994. In
December, members performed maintenance work on three acres on city parks, and planted
trees on two, 1-acre sites.
New Jersey, state-wide
Completed stream walks on four streams to categorize and map potential non-point pollution
in the South Branch Raritan River watershed. Desnagged and reestablished stone reflectors
in two streams to improve fish habitat and removed debris and reseeded 375 feet of
streambank to reduce erosion and improve water quality. Designed and flagged 500 feet of
trail in the Muscecong watershed. Erected a playground set at Lake Hopatcong state park.
5
District of Columbia/Beltsville
Members worked with the Izaak Walton League in Charles County, Maryland to complete
four erosion control structures on a site that will be open to the public. They pulled plants
and completed field work in greenhouse and conducted landscaping activities at the Beltsville
National Plant materials Center. Members cleaned-up Lake Atemesia and completed site
assessment.
District of Columbia - National Arboretum
The members completed the first two stages of restoring the Azalea overlook, cut to the
ground and removed the above-ground sections of the Boxwood collection, cleared weeds
and vines to restore 150 yards of Juniper hedge, weeded around Crabapple trees, removed
weed trees and vines from existing trees on the mall.
Chicago
Member spent 10 days at Lathrop Homes maintaining and beautifying streambanks,
preparing and seeding berm seedbed, and serving meals to the homeless on Thanksgiving.
Member served the remainder of the quarter at eight different locations creating a safe-haven
lot, cleaning-up a lagoon in Washington Park, landscaping at a public high school, remodeling
and preparing a play lot at Kennicott Park, helping organize a "Neighbors Against Gang
Violence - Day of Dead Memorial," remodeling the Donelly Youth Center, and planting bulbs
at the Fellowship Youth Center.
Pittsfield, Illinois
In areas generally damaged by the floods of 1993, Members developed 1.3 miles of hiking
trails, improved 5 acres of camp sites, and pruned 5 acres of evergreen trees at a Pittsfield
City park. Members also removed about 15 ton S of debris (tires, appliances, automobiles,
etc.) from half a mile of a stream that outlets into a city owned recreation lake for the city
of Rushville. In Kampsville, Members replaced 75 feet of sidewalks damaged during the
flood. members also renovated a building used by Calhoun County for storage and removed
brush and weeds from public property. In Quincy, Members removed vines, brush, and
weeds from city owned property and assisted in renovating a building as part of revitalizing
uptown Quincy. Members in Quincy also removed bricks from an historic alley, reshaped
the alley, and replaced the bricks.
6
NRCS East St. Louis, IL
Members have established nurseries at East. St. Louis Senior High School, Lovejoy High
School, and Gains Park, removed debris and broken materials from the greenhouse at East
St. Louis Senior High, cleaned out a fountain in Jones Park, assisted Operation NewSpirit in
planting bulbs throughout East St. Louis. To prepare for vacant lot renovations next quarter,
they have solicited over 30 applications for lot renovation, conducted on-site analysis of the
lots, and prepared detailed stenciled drawings for all the sites selected.
NRCS, Portland, OR
Members at the Whitaker Pond Restoration improved 150 feet of bank along the east pond
by removing pest species including blackberries, night shade, and everlasting pea; the area
was revegetated with a variety of native species, and compost was spread over the entire
planting site to improve growing conditions. Trash such as tires and lumber was removed
from the pond. Members also canvassed neighborhoods adjacent to the ponds to distribute
flyers about the first workshop to solicit public input and involvement in the planning
process.
Members also revegetated 3 acres on the northern portion of Fairview Creek, and mentored
20 high school students who removed blackberries and canary grass and revegetated the
banks along another 200 feet of the Creek. They also relocated geese from a Metro park to
a Humane Society Pond site. They also worked on a project in St. Johns with the non-profit
organization Friends of Trees, removing 50 diseased trees and replacing them with 80 trees
more appropriate for the area. The Members worked side-by-side with 80 different
community volunteers who served 450 hours.
NRCS, Goldendale, Washington
Member rebuilt a half-mile stretch of fence that protects a key riparian area along the Little
Kickitat River. Protected water quality on one mile of stream by treating 300 acres with log
check dams across steep slopes and installed eight sediment retention dams. Protected Pine
Creek by installing eight log check dams. Built a new playground at a Head Start School
sponsored by the Yakima Indian Reservation. Removed dozens of pick-up loads of dead and
dying trees and public lands and provided as firewood for low-income families.
San Bernardino NF, Southern CA
Members rehabilitated 12,000 acres of the area burned by fire on the Arrowhead and Big
Bear Ranger Districts on the forest. This fire stripped the hills of essential vegetation.
Preventing erosion was the primary goal of the rehabilitation work.
7
Six Rivers NF, Northern CA
Members rehabilitated 3.5 miles of trails to be used by hikers and horse riders. Members
rehabilitated and expanded their dormitory and their dining hall for their own use and that
of all future AmeriCorps programs. Members reforested 10 acres of an old gold mine waste
area in orderer to restore riparian vegetation, increase wildlife habitat, and control erosion
on Red Cap Creek. They collected and processed 15,000 willow cuttings for propagation
in future riparian revegetation projects. One crew participated in service-learning project in
which they received credit from local college for an anadromous fisheries class and then
rehabilitated a half a mile of stream by building 16 in-stream structures composed of large
woody debris and boulders.
One Member working in a Rural Development Team-type "Internship" completed a lobby
display for a Forest office, created a display for the Eureka Chamber of Commerce's Pride
of Humbolt room, and reformated three different Recreational Opportunity Guides for public
use. Members also performed selected service projects in Humbolt County such as tutoring
children, helping senior citizens, and contributing to a blood drive. One Member has been
selected through state-wide competition to serve on the California Commission on Improving
Life Through Service "AmeriCorps Member Ad-Hoc Committee." Congressman Dan Hamburg
sent a representative to the project's launch.
FS, Rouge River, OR
Member planted 2,390 trees in several campgrounds to restore overused areas. Another
Member completely restored kitchen shelter at the McKee Bridge picnic area that was
originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's. In order to both
enhance fish habitat and clear out manzanita bushes to help timber stands better grow,
Members pruned 4000 manzanita bushes and anchored them in the Applegate Reservoir to
improve native fish habitat. They pruned second growth trees to improve forest health on
55 acres of land; and built a nature trail complete with an outdoor classroom and bench
areas along the route for a local school. Members rehabilitated and expanded their
dormitory and their dining hall for their own use and that of all future AmeriCorps programs.
FS, Olympic, WA
Members have maintained 4 miles of trails, rehabilitated campground sites, completed
handicapped access in six developed recreation sites, completed restoration on two historic
sites, survey Threatened and Endangered Species habitat on 700 acres, installed 1,500 feet
of fence, and hand-pruned 120 acres of timber stands. Members replaced the roofs on two
county-owned recreational centers originally built by Civilian Conservation Corps Members.
8
Arizona National Forests
Members maintained 15 miles of trails, rehabilitated 10 campground sites, performed
maintenance at three campgrounds, protected and improved wildlife habitat on 300 acres,
built half a mile of range fence, removed 2.5 miles of fence, rehabilitated two range
waterlots, and obliterated two miles of road and returned to natural state.
Bienville NF, MS
Member brushed 1.8 miles of footpaths on the Bienville Scenic Pine Trail. The Members
completed 19 miles of heavy brushing and adding clay-gravel to the Shockaloe Trail low
areas. The Members are constantly performing regular road maintenance. The Members have
made numerous repair to water leaks and filled dirt around outdoor Sweet-Smelling toilets.
The Members developed food plots by seeding and planting desirable grasses on
approximately five acres of wildlife habitat.
Green Mountain NF, VT
The AmeriCorps team starts in January, 1995. Staff is actively recruiting Corps Members
during this preperational first quarter. Currently, there are 14 Corps Member offers - 12
accepted, one declined, and one is trying to work out an apartment lease situation. The
Corps Members range in age from 18-to-53 years old, and education levels range from high
school to master's degree.
White Mountain NF, NH
The White Mountain AmeriCorps program begins on January 14, 1995. The project is
gearing up, hiring crew leaders and AmeriCorps Members.
NRCS South Dakota
Members based in Huron helped conduct 10 sessions in elementary classrooms during
American Indian Heritage Month in the City of Clark. Members also utilized new
Geographical Information System technology to electronically map soil surveys, section
numbers, town names, creek names, farmstead locations, range and township values in
order to improve local land use decisions and speed the application of conservation methods.
Members are developing exhibit to demonstrate to cattlemen the benefits of managing
9
riparian and upland vegetation areas along waterways, including during period of flooding.
Prepared a twelve-page report, a two-page fact sheet, and color overhead transparencies to
help with presentations to explain to farmers how they can economically use sustainable
agriculture techniques.
Members in Brookings, Mitchell, and Huron completed Natural Resource Inventory maps for
12 counties and are engaged in a wide variety of mapping, communications, and database
collection tasks to accelerate information outreach and technical help to farmers in three of
South Dakota's flood-impacted counties.
Members in Brookings and Mitchell completed an inventory of 198 riparian sites.
Members are also volunteering with the local Salvation Army and coaching a team of the
city's volunteer-based hockey program.
NRCS Nebraska
Based in Omaha, Members provided markers for 400 acres and provided timber marking for
160 acres owned by the Winnebego Tribe. Designed three recreation trails, mulched and
maintained a heavily used urban nature trail, cleaned up an urban wetland "Heron Haven"
owned by the local Audubon Club, and started a "Cans for Corps" recycling project.
Based in Lincoln, Members revitalized the Lincoln Normal historical project, improved 20
miles of recreation trails, and publicly promoted the Shop Smart (Saving Money and
Reducing Trash) recycling program.
Based in Tecumseh, Members assisted in the assessment and debris removal from 14 suites
at the National Arbor Day Foundation headquarters damaged by the 1993 floods. Helped
prepare an inspection and maintenance report of flood control and public recreation areas
impacted by the 1993 flood. Members maintained and improved historical sites at the
Captain Bailey Museum in Brownville and the Merriweather Lewis Dredge recreation area.
Based in Norfolk, Members performed recreation and conservation work in Lower Elkhorn
River area, maintenance and improvements at the Willow Creek Recreation area and the
Norfolk public parks, and promotional assistance to the "Keep Norfolk Beautiful" public
project.
10
Site by Site Accomplishments in Rural Development Projects
Projects are managed by the Forest Service (FS), the Natural Resources Conservation
Service (NRCS), and the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), and the combined agencies of
Rural Economic and Community Development (RECD).
NEW ENGLAND
Maine
Members based in Portland visited and conducted seminars on water quality in five local
schools, edited and finalized a Casco Bay Watershed Land Use Inventory report.
Based in Edgecomb, Member sorted 78 samples of ichthoplankton, identifying eggs and
larvae in the samples, in order to aid in the transportation of striped bass through located and
protecting spawning areas in the Kennebec and Eastern Rivers. Transferred 20,000
individual shads from grow-out ponds into a re-stocking truck.
In Houlton, Member completed sanitary survey on Shin Pound to help community residents
make future decisions about how to best protect the health of their lake.
In Machias, Member received funding from the Maine Wild Blueberry Commission to set-up
a statewide series of best management practices for blueberry growers; began
implementation of workshops. Member also working to assist local towns to fund septic
system replacements/installations. Member completed shoreline survey of Beals Island/Great
Wass Island.
In Presque Isle, Member located and identified stream suitable for streamside installation of
boxes for salmanoid spawning, rearing, and staging,
In Presque Isle, Members worked with 12 teachers to begin implementing an "Adopt-a-
Stream curriculum in their classrooms.
In Carribou, Member helped supervised a Youth Community Action Crew in creating an All
Terrain Vehicle Trail by building a bridge, clearing trees blown down over the route, re-
decking two existing bridges, and cleaning culverts that beavers had dammed. Member also
worked to improve a snowmobile trail by building a bridge and by adding railings to an
existing bridge.
In Cumberland County, Member promoted an Envirothon natural resources competition by
11
visiting 18 schools that did not participate in the previous year's competition. Member
developed Adopt-a-Stream programs with YMCA school groups, engaging 80 students
grades K-5 in activities ranging from building their own model watershed to visiting the
actual stream to monitor for water quality and pollution. Member has provided water quality
presentations to 37 students and six teachers. In Waldoboro, the Mid-Coast Fisheries Team
completed a shoreline survey for Merry Cove and Beals Island and documented several
sources of pollution, instituted a contingency sampling program in Waldoboro and Isesboro
for their area shellfish management plan by doing storm-drain event monitoring, began
sampling the West Branch of the Medomak River. Member also provided environmental
training and technical assistance to the Portland Youth Conservation Corps, York High
School, Boothbay Regional High School, Lincoln Academy, Camden-Rockport High School,
Wiscasset High School, and Medomak Valley High School and conducted classroom
presentations on wetlands and water quality to 160 students for the Maine Children's Water
Festival.
In Cherryfield, Member assisted in the establishment of a pilot Integrated Pest Management
Program for cranberry growers to help the growers economically reduce the amount of
pesticides that end up in the groundwater, assisted with the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency's upland cranberry bed demonstration project, and has visited lands of 13 cranberry
growers to provide personal assistance.
In Framingtion, Member collected, revised, adapted, copied, and distributed a 20-page packet
of educational materials including lessons plans on water quality, the water cycle, water
conservation, and preventing surface and groundwater pollution to 16 Soil and Water
Conservation District.
At Beals Island Hatchery and Education Center, the Member facilitated three cooperative
agreements between University of Maine at Machias, University of Maine Orono Cooperative
Extension, and Maine Department of Environmental Resources in order to integrate hands-on
water quality testing and shoreline sampling experience into the Environmental Chemistry
and Special Topics in Environmental Sciences courses. Helped facilitate workshop for
loggers on how they can improve water quality.
Vermont
Members on the Vermont Fire Protection project contacted 48 fire Departments in Vermont,
installed one dry fire hydrant, performed 30 dry fire-hydrant site surveys, and initiated and
participated in meetings with Vermont Emergency Management, the Vermont Fire Safety
Association, Vermont Fire Chiefs Association, and Vermont League of Cities and Towns.
Members on the Winooski River Project conducted a 21-mile reconnaissance survey from
Jonesville to Essex Junction Vermont to evaluate the state of erosion control and
bioengineering measures installed in the late 1930's in order to improve current conservation
measures.
12
APPALACHIA
WEST VIRGINIA
Members developed a survey for the technical assistance, technology, and training needs for
the West Virginia University Appalachia Hardwood Center; assisted with implementation of
a business retention and expansion program including the production and distribution of a
monthly newsletter that is intended to improve dialogue, link communities together, and
provide funding opportunities; developed a computer program for West Virginia Division of
Forestry that allows small business owners to calculate costs of producing various materials
for long-term investment strategies.
The Barbour County Economic Development Authority is using their Members time to
implement a business retention and expansion program. Nine presentations have been made
to industry/business/community groups describing program objectives. The Member is taking
the lead on the production and distribution of a monthly letter that is distributed to business,
government, and community leaders throughout the county that is intended to improve
dialogue, link communities together, and provide funding opportunities, etc. Two issues
have been published to date.
RECD West Virginia
One Member contacted 32 local businesses to participate in a business retention and
expansion survey. In Logan County, Member assisted the organization of nine local rural
communities so they can bring resources together to effectively reduce certain criminal
activities. Another Member served on the organization and implementation committee for
Tug River Health Clinic and sent surveys to all employers, child care providers, parents to
collect data to apply for a grant to establish a clinic. Another Member handled coordination
of the county-wide clean up campaign, and make regular progress notes on the action
pursued by the county in their EZ/EC implementation plans. In Fairmont, Member organized
a Community Service Day for the all Northern West Virginia AmeriCorps members in which
they worked at the Union Mission of Fairmont to help decorate for the youth holiday party,
tape plastic to windows in the homeless shelter, and prepare information packets for a
fundraising event. In Wilcoe, Member also sent surveys to prominent businesses in
McDowell County that employ 25 people or more, in-home day care providers, private day
care owners, and parents of Head Start children to collect data to include in grant
applications to obtain funding for local day care programs. In Williamson, member assisted
in helping 30 families apply for rental housing assistance.
13
NRCS West Virginia
In Middlebourne, the Member worked to develop a pond system for the production of striped
bass on a commercial basis. He also began forming an organization of warm water fish
producers in the area. He also organized a dry fire hydrant in the area by working with fire
departments and local communities to get access to water for rural fire protection.
Based in Morgantown, the Member performed an archaeologist inventory on five major sites
in economically depressed sites around the state in order to provide cultural resource
protection through inventory, investigation, and documentation of sites. At one site, he
discovered three historic and one pre-historic sites that he will be documenting. He also
worked with another AmeriCorps member to develop Fort Randolph -- a Civil War fort in
Point Pleasant -- for public use.
In Huntington, the member is delineating wetlands and helping design conservation plans for
those wetlands.
In Kingwood, the Member performed soil nutrient content analysis and animal manure
nutrient analysis in order to improve local water quality. In Morefield, the Member performed
nutrient and pesticide management activities to improve the local water quality. The two
members have provided assistance on a combined total of 1,000 acres.
RECD Virginia
Member in Virginia has been conducting outreach on home ownership and home repair
programs.
FS Virginia
Member developed a video program showing natural resources on the National Forest, State
and private lands to promote recreation resources, and tourism in the region and worked with
fire departments on dry hydrant (drafting hydrants at ponds) program in VA.
NRCS Virginia
Members in Keysville conducted inventory of local dry fire hydrants, started developing a
forestry product marketing plan, prepared site plan for a local greenway trail, began inventory
of the site for the Staunton River Battlefield Park, and searched for artifacts to use in a
visitors center.
14
Members in New River-Highlands have begun implementing an outdoor education center.
RECD North Carolina
In Jefferson, Member is helping finance home improvements for very low-income families in Ashe
County. To do so, she established working relationships with the Ashe County Council on Aging and
Allegheny County Senior Center to determine how FmHA programs could better serve the elderly
residents in the counties.
In Hendersonville, Member is helping finance home improvements for very low-income families in Ashe
County. To do so, he established relationships with the Housing Assistance Corporation and the
Isothermal Planning and Development Commission so that they will now package applications for
FmHA housing loans. He also met with several individuals to educate them about the USDA programs,
and processed two loans to make repairs to low-income individuals.
In Waynesville, the Member is working towards establishing a good, trusting relationship with the
Cherokee Indian Reservation and to make the residents aware of various USDA home ownership and
repair programs.
In Boone, the member is working with the Enterprise Community (EC) applicant of Boone to implement
their strategic plan. Working in cooperation with the Boone Housing Authority, she is organizing and
making functional a Community Development Corporation (CDC) to assist the low-income residents
of Boone. To date, over $1.8 million has been awarded for water and sewer infrastructure and housing
assistance as a result of her help.
In Marshall, Member works with the Enterprise Community applicant of Madison County, through the
Madison Department of Social Services. In this capacity, she helps with in-home serves to assist
individuals and families with home management tasks to enable them to maintain self-sufficiency and
avoid out of home placement. Regina has increased the number of families served by the county by
even. In addition, she serves 13 other families by assessing the client's functional abilities in the areas
of physical health, mental health, social support, activities of daily living, environmental conditions,
and finances. She also assessed 15 families and placed the families on waiting lists for services and/or
referred them to other agencies.
FS North Carolina
Members completed a needs analysis of parks and recreation centers; worked with city of Asheville on
Adaptive Programs; completed an inventory of parks and recreation facilities and developed a Parks and
Recreation Department proposal on the Cherokee Indian Reservation.
15
RECD Tennessee
Member in Jonesborough has begun a survey of local housing needs.
Members in Oneida, Tazewell, and Campbell County have begun researching and writing grants for
critical services for their counties.
Member in Hancock County has begun implementing the Empowerment Zone strategic plan throughout
the region.
Member in Greene County has been assisting low-income citizens to apply for grants and loans to repair
their homes for health and safety standards.
Member in Johnson County is helping the county install and regulate an 911 emergency response
system.
NRCS Tennessee
In Rutledge, Members working on the Clinch-Powell Specialty Recreation and Tourism Initiative
interviewed 43 federal, state, and local tourism professionals, six independent consultants, and 64 local
citizens to initially assess project feasibility, community attitudes, tourism development processes, and
sources of funding or technical assistance. Established the first-ever tourism advisory board in the
region. Began a community-based initiative in Hancock and Grainger Counties to provide technical
assistance and "hands-on" service in the establishment and renovation of county museums.
In Cookeville, Members have created a database to track the status of solid waste/recycling progress
in each of 14 counties. Members also began a 14-county poster contest in local schools with the theme
"Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle." Successfully convinced 16 schools to start on-site recycling programs.
Members have also presented eight environmental education programs to 400 students.
Based in Waverly, Members have significantly improved and expanded the Humphreys County Soil
Conservation District environmental center, also known as the Blue Creek Nature Center. Members
developed one new trail and improved existing trails. Members conducted six nature tours involving
199 students and 63 adults.
Members based in the Chickasaw-Shiloh RC&D Council in Jackson have dewatered 2.5 million gallons
of waste from the storage facilities of five local landowners, and collected soil samples at those sites
to ensure safe discharge. Members also created a curriculum on environmental education, including 20
lesson plans and 10 separate activity sheets, and delivered the program, to 20 students.
16
In Whitley County, Member worked with the Whitely County Communities for Children to provide
five cows and two bulls to low-income farm families; the first calf will be given back after mating in
order to be delivered to another farm family. Member also delivered 10 Thanksgiving baskets to low-
income families.
In Morristown, the Member has conducted conservation outreach to local landowners, installed
conservation measures, and has significantly increased the number of local landowners expressing
interest in conservation practices. She also began biological studies of local streams to assess their
impact upon the watershed.
FS Tennessee
Member developed an infrastructure database; served as project manager for the historic Stearns
building renovation project; and administered the Folk Life Study on historical buildings, people, and
local folklore in Kentucky.
Member developed a marketing program for recyclable materials; a program called "Garbage Busters"
was developed for second graders; grants were written for various proposals and one was approved for
a "Learn and Service America" program that focuses on recycling management for elementary students
in a five-county area; prepared articles for local newspapers entitled "Trashy Talk"; and completed a
presentation for a public education program on oil recycling in Tennessee.
RECD Kentucky
In Magoffin County, the Member is developing, organizing, and implementing a community-based
recreational program for teenagers.
In Owsley County, Member created and help obtain grant for East Kentucky Goat Producers Association
to focus on agricultural diversification. Member also had photograph taken with the Governor in
recognition of his service helping obtain a school-to-work grant for the area.
In Frankfort, the Member completed a survey to determine how local service agencies can better help
at-risk families.
In Bell County, Member helped the local Industrial Foundation obtain a $201,000 grant.
Another Member produced a brochure to help increase tourism to the nearby Kentucky Craft Village.
Member is also planning instruction workshops for 15 local craft producers.
In Cumberland Valley. Member assisted in the creation of a Family Preservation Program in eight
counties.
17
Member in Prestonburg helped six low-income families obtain loans.
Member in Barbourville helped four low-income families obtain loans/grants to repair their homes.
Member in Somerset/London helped five low-income families obtain loans.
FS Kentucky
Member developed an infrastructure database; served as project manager for the historic Stearns
building renovation project; and administered the Folk Life Study on historical buildings, people, and
local folklore in Kentucky.
FS Georgia
Member developed a recreation opportunity guide for the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest;
conducted wilderness rehabilitation activities; and completed environmental education in the Blood
Mountain Wilderness and local communities.
SOUTH CAROLINA
RECD South Carolina
Member in Denmark established an after-school tutorial project.
In Allendale/Blackville, Member established a downtown redevelopment effort concentrating on a
historical abandonned hotel.
In Marion County, Member began outreach to improve local housing conditions for low-income
residents.
In Williamsburg, Member began attempting to locate land for a future state park.
In Santee-Luynches, Member has been working to statistically document and then reduce the number
of teenage pregnancies.
In Eastern Orangeburg, Member began outreach to improve local housing conditions for low-income
residents.
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In Greater Orangeburg, Member is seek to reduce the number of vacant buildings used for illegal
activities by helping identify those premises and working with the city to demolish or improve those
buildings.
In Penn Center, Member is completing a survey of community land ownership to stabilize development
and establish a plan for a cooperative effort for agriculture processing and development.
FS
Members conducted one Junior Palmetto Leadership training course for 30 high school students;
conducted Arbor Day tree planting demonstrations; worked with Head Start program; worked on the
Greelyville Nature trail reconstruction project; worked on the Black River Bridge Beautification Project
and a 12-mile highway beautification project; worked with NRCS on a flood prevention project; initiated
a wetland delineation project for NRCS; and researched background information for the Pocotaligo
Swamp restoration project.
NRCS South Carolina
Members conducted waste water sampling of waste management facilities (lagoons) and prepared
detailed summary reports for 16 individual farm systems; this testing procedure was the first in South
Carolina and will serve as a model for other conservation activities. Tested 600 different soil samples
to determine croplands with high levels of phosphorus and acidity and prepared on report on their
findings to local farmers. Members expanded inventory on data on farm grasslands to reflect 40,000
acres in order to reduce erosion and improve water quality of nearby streams and lakes. Members built
a new front entrance gate and a mile's worth of nature trails at the Adair Outdoor Learning Center in
Laurens, which is visited by 3,000 students each year.
Members helpred local officials improve emergency response procedures by conducting a county-wide
road survey in Edgefield County to inventory and update names and locations, as the first base
procedure to reduce delays in 911 emergency responses. Over 600 miles of roads were recorded on
base maps and entered into local computer software in order to maintain accurate files. The entire
effort saved the county approximately $20,000, and each AmeriCorps Member was presented a
certificate of achievement from county officials.
MISSISSIPPI DELTA
NRCS Mississippi
Members in Hattiesburg began an inventory of tourism resources in an 18-county area of Southeast
Missouri.
Members in Brookhaven conducted a large scale communications campaign to solicit volunteers for the
"Adopt-A-Stream" program.
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Members in Monticello were responsible for pumping out one lagoon, and placing seven on waiting list
Members in Monticello also sponsored a regional meeting, attended by 11 of the 13 counties in the rea,
to improve rural fire protection services.
Members in Tupelo and Grenada have generated maps and used them in meetings with local fire
coordinators to plan dry fire hydrants that will increase local fire protection.
Member in Mississippi has started work on improving local waste management systems.
Member in Pearl nearly completed two outdoor classrooms and a nature trail at Madison Elementary
School.
RECD Mississippi
In Cleveland, Member recruited new and emerging leaders in Bolivar County for a community and
economic development leadership seminar. Conducted survey of 18-county area as an integral part of
the regional strategic plan.
Member in Natchez is working to reduce teenage pregnancy; she spoke personally about her efforts with
Senate Majority Whip Trent Lott and "promised to support (her) efforts in Natchez and declared he
would be in Natchez in any events that take place if his schedule permits." The Member has also
formed a task force to work on reestablishing a YMCA center in Natchez. Another member in Natchez
helped two different families obtain funds to repair their home. In her "free time" this member is
volunteering for the Illiteracy Program at a local United Methodist Church.
In RECD District IV ( Bolivar, Sharkey, Issaquene, Sunflower, and Washington Counties, Member
helped five families with poor credit history turn their credit around so they could obtain housing loans.
Member in Madison County recruited 46 local high school students and two teachers to participate in
a series of money management workshops.
Member in Madison and Jefferson Counties conducted financial management classes in six senior high
school classes reaching 135 students.
Member is working in Jackson to create a "Peer Helpers' group to reduce crimes committed by
teenagers. Another Member is working in Jackson to help low-income families obtain loans to purchase
their first homes.
In Washington County, member has produced a comprehensive report of available buildings, the labor
supply, financial options, cost of utilities, etc. in an 18-county region in order to expand local
businesses or attract new businesses.
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In Webb, Member helped six low-income citizens obtain single self-help housing units. Member has
also provided counseling to the families that have homes under construction to acquaint them with the
responsibilities that go along with home ownership.
In Indianola, Member began providing a "Home Buyer's Education Program" for 932 individuals.
Member in Holmes County devised a plan to reduce employee turnover at the Durant Electric
Corporation, the largest employer in the county with 600 employees and a payroll of $8 million. The
plan not only convinced the company to reverse its plans to move to Mexico, but allowed to company
to hire 400 new employees. Thus, the one USDA AmeriCorps member directly saved or created 1,100
jobs.
The member also held two town meetings, attended by 80 local senior citizens, to inform them of
common consumer fraud scams targeted at the elderly.
Member in Yazoo City created a brochure for a new program to create small businesses in the area.
This member also coordinated a program in which the MS State Health Educator talked to 900 high
school students about teenage pregnancy and abstinence.
FS Mississippi
Member completed one timber bridge application; assisted 21 people in joining and developing a Rural
Water Association; distributed recycling literature to individuals and schools; and assisted two small
communities with two leadership programs in Mississippi.
RECD Arkansas
One Member works with the Mid-Delta Community Services to help implement the Mid-Delta EC
proposal and the East Arkansas EZ proposal. A contact list was developed and will be updated. A list
was developed showing MDEC activities that might be undertaken using other funding sources.
One Member works with Crowly & Ridge D.C.A. to train low-income families in child care and has
aided two families in receiving help in paying utility bills and receiving food from area churches.
In Forrest City, one Member successfully organized one community meeting to explain to the
community and housing programs available through the USDA and completed 10 borrower interviews
for housing assistance loans and grants. Another Member helped improve the standard living for 950
low-income families, helping to obtain Home Energy Assistance (HEAP) and to provide assistance
through the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP).
In Jonesboro, Member began conducting outreach on USDA housing repair and ownership programs.
21
In Blytheville, Member is working to implement the Mississippi County Enterprise Community Strategic
Plan.
In Mariana, Member began implementing the strategic plan of the Arkansas Mississippi Tri-County EZ,
Crittenden County EC, Forrest City Marianna EC, Mid Delta EC, and the Tri State Delta EZ.
In Brinkley, Member began implementing the Eastern Arkansas Empowerment Zone strategic plan by
Empowerment Zone Enterprise Community Initiative to implement the strategic plan.
FS Arkansas
Member motivated volunteers to assist with the "Educate the Children Project" which distributes
educational material to school districts and some non-profit organizations; completed an inventory of
families willing to move out of a flood plain; compiled a list of organizations that could provide
assistance to communities in Arkansas.
NRCS Arkansas
Members in Batesville made significant progress towards helping create a local woodland owners
association.
Members in Holy Grove began work to help community residents move out of a flood zone. Members
have also worked on helping start a "Dads Program," to focus attention on young boys without fathers
in the home.
Member in Marion assembled information for area tourism guide.
Another Member in Marion helped provide a rural waterline that will provide seven households -- with
22 residents -- with running water for the first time.
Member in North Little Rock prepared report on state's threatened and endangered species and
presented information to representative of city and county governments, Conservation District officials,
members of other governmental agencies, leaders of local financial institutions, and local landowners.
Another Member in North Little Rock has identified 10 sites for Pellet Stove Demonstration Projects
to stimulate demand for a new product that will boost industry in the region.
A Member in Brinkley provided information on alternative crops to limited resource farmers.
One of the Members in Pine Bluff developed farm and home plans for small and disadvantaged farmers
to help them obtain loans to stay on their land.
22
Member in Helen conducted comprehensive needs survey on Monroe, Phillips, and Lee Counties.
NRCS Louisiana
Made significant progress towards installing 35 dry fire hydrants per parish in order to aid rural fire
protection. Performed over 100 pre-assessment surveys that benefited over 100 rural families by
identifying threats water quality on their home and farmsteads. Made presentations on the water quality
program to 240 high school students.
RECD Louisiana
In Jonesville, Member provided outreach to senior citizens to help them apply for the 504 grant housing
program.
In Tallulah, one Member posted loan payments and performed loan servicing and another member
helped the Madison Parish Police Jury begin implementing their strategic plan.
In Winsboro, one Member helped citizen fill out 25 applications for the 504 grant housing program and
another Member assisted the Macon Ridge Economic Development Region in implementing their
strategic plan and participated in the local Head Start Center's "Literacy Week."
In Alexandria, Member provided outreach on USDA and Small Business Administration loans for new
businesses, helped organize a Mayor's Adult and Youth Council, helped organize a community clean-up
day, and attended public meetings on behalf of the mayor.
In Rayville, Member providing outreach to citizens to obtain rural housing loans.
In Ferriday, Member performed outreach for rural housing, rehabilitations, and guaranteed loan
programs.
In Lake Providence, one Member attended local events to promote outreach of local housing and farmer
loan programs and another member worked to obtain home repair loans for senior citizens.
In Bastrop, member began proving outreach activities to promote rural housing programs.
FS Louisiana
Member worked with parishes to develop an Area Festival Brochure for Northeast Louisiana; worked
on a tourism project with Rymans Library; assisted with a Grant Writing Workshop; contributed to the
RC&D's "Rural Community Giving" project; worked on an Elder Care project for senior citizens;
worked on a beautification project for roads and highways in one parish; developed a draft tourism
23
brochure for another parish; assumed responsibility on the Area Demonstration Project on Shitake
Mushrooms; assisted with the development of a children's playground; worked with the Outreach
Project in Lake Providence; assisted with the development of a tutoring program for individuals to
obtain their GED and improve ACT test scores and an education program for adults; and worked on
a bridge information summary for Mississippi Delta counties to prepare a bridge infrastructure report
for possible timber bridge construction projects in Louisiana.
GREAT LAKES
NRCS Ohio
Member completed a field map of Pickaway County to help protect the Darby Creek watershed.
Completed survey and design work to implement Best Management Practices in rural areas, identified
local landowners who want trees to be planted on riparian areas; began identifying places on the Big
and Little Darby Creeks where point and non-point pollution enters the stream system.
NRCS Michigan
Members conducted quality assessments and provided water quality protection plans to 29 farm families.
NRCS New York
Members have helped digitalize soil surveys and make that information accessible and practice to
surrounding communities, including the Senecca Nation of Indians. Members have also assisted with
the planning, survey, and design of three wetland restoration projects, two runoff management projects,
and three manure management projects.
MINNESOTA
NRCS
Members based in Twin Valley working on the Agassie Recreational Trail Project and designed a
tourism brochure along with a logo created through a local contest, worked with the Ada City Council
to integrate the trail project with community development, completed a grant proposal for the Heritage
& Information Center, and judged at the Norman County East Science Fair for students grades K
through 6.
24
Members based in Twin Valley working on the conservation outreach project recruited local volunteers
to jointly clean-up downtown Crookston.
Members based in Cloquet developed a public participation plan for the Nemadji River Basin Project
and completed a watershed roadside erosion inventory.
Members based in Lewiston created and implemented a public participation plan for the Whitewater
Joint Powers Board and conducted outreach on the Water Quality Incentive Program. Members also
helped develop an "enchanted trail" to be a safe haven for children trick-or-treating on Halloween and
picked-up trash and brush around the historical Elba Fire Tower.
Members based in Hiawatha began work to improve forage/grassland conditions to the good or excellent
category on 5,000 acres, affecting 50 farmers in 11 counties.
Members based in Thief River Falls began work to improve water quality and reduce producer fertilizer
input costs by developing and implementing animal waste nutrient utilization and management plans on
120 livestock operations.
FS
Member developed a public access TV show that explains a project being conducted by the RC&Ds to
promote the development of a bio-fuels program in cooperation with the US Dept. of Energy; and
worked with the Central Minnesota Initiative Fund and two regional economic development groups to
assess what must be done by foundations, state/local/federal governments and educational institutions,
industry, and financial institutions to encourage the sustainable development of Minnesota's forest
products industry.
COLONIAS
RECD Texas
One Member with the Middle Rio Grande Development Council has begun grant applications to attempt
to start a revolving loan fund to fund new small businesses locally.
Another Member is helping create a community crime watch program.
Member in Devian, Texas made significant progress towards creating a 5,000 acre Regional
Environmental Enterprise Zone to build an innovative and comprehensive facility to meet the solid waste
needs of the region for the next 75 to 100 years. The member is also helping establish a magnet high
school with emphasis on environmental concerns. Member began implementing project to build 20
Equal Community Housing Opportunity (ECHO) homes for elderly and/or handicapped citizens.
25
Member in Brownsville helped 25 families without bathroom and kitchen plumbing renovate unsanitary
and unsafe bathroom and kitchen plumbing facilities. Member helped 16 families remodel their homes
to remove health hazards such as broken windows, old roofs, insulation, etc. Member helped two
families obtain new homes that are now under construction.
Member in Laredo make significant progress towards rehabilitating 42 housing units.
Member is working to obtain funds to complete a water feasibility study and is working with three
school districts to increase the percentage of high school drop-outs obtaining GEDS.
Member in El Paso helped two elderly women obtain funds to repair their homes, and for a third
women ineligible for government loans, recruited a volunteer plumber to repair bathroom and volunteers
through the Salvation Army to winterize home.
Member conducted needs surveys in all the sub-zones of the Empowerment Zone.
Members in Hidalgo County have been responsible for construction of nine bathrooms at homes
previously without indoor plumbing; three more were finalized, but not yet built, at the end of the
quarter.
Member in San Benito is working to provide indoor plumbing to 153 families without such plumbing.
Member in Raymondville worked to provide indoor plumbing to 30 families without such plumbing.
RECD New Mexico
Members in Columbus Colonias began working on a community water project to improve running water
in the area.
In Las Cruses, Members held a workshop for 40 residents of local colonias to inform them of available
housing programs and how to apply for aid.
In Sunland Park, member made presentations at a local elementary school on Disability Awareness
week.
RECD Arizona
Four members are working in EZ/EC applicant communities on a broad range of economic development
activities including the creation of a revolving loan fund for small and emerging businesses, recruitment
of businesses, surveys of local needs and challenges.
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Three members began outreach on 502 and 504 housing programs to targeted areas.
RECD California
Two Members in El Centro have been conducting outreach to expand usage of the 504 programs to
provide grants and loans for low income families to repair their homes; by the end of the first quarter,
two applications for repairs had been approved and the work was completed, two more had just been
approved, and four more were in the process of being approved. The other Member is working for
the County Community Economic Development Office and helped Spanish-speaking citizens fill-out their
forms in English, obtain 50 donated Christmas trees for low-income residents and helped plan crime
prevention, alcohol and drug awareness, and economic development assistance.
FOUR CORNERS
NRCS Arizona/
Members in Holbrook, Arizona began an assessment of small-scale agriculture needs on the Hopi and
Navajo Reservations.
Members have also begun socioeconomic and infrastructure survey in selected communities.
NRCS New Mexico
Members based in Albuquerque began their service after the end of the first quarter.
In San Juan, Members have begun to inventory private woodlands and started to conduct a resource
and rangeland inventory on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation.
NRCS/FS Utah
Members have begun service conducting an analysis of the potential for local resource-based, value-
added industries in the region and assist limited resource farmers in developing small-scale agriculture
enterprises.
FS Arizona/New Mexico, Colorado
Members primarily training, obtaining facilities, and establishing relationships in communities and with
other participating agencies. One Community Action Plan completed in Colorado.
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RECD New Mexico
In Grants, Member has recruited 2-3 individuals in each of eight communities to form community
councils to make housing programs more available to low-income individuals.
In San Juan County, Member made presentation to senior citizens group on how to apply for funds to
repair their homes.
Member in Gallup conducted a training on loan packaging for 19 community residents including
representatives from local non-profit groups, church leaders, and Native American Community leaders.
In Baker City, Member has recruited three property owners who have agreed to use their properties as
pilot locations for historic renovations.
In Oakridge, Member drafted a new land use ordinance of the City that was presented to a planning
commission in December 1994. The member also drafted an update of a local Strategic Economic
Development Plan.
In Coquille, Member promoted the Housing Repair Loan and Grant Program by creating a brochure
she is distributing throughout town, writing an article for the local newspaper, and assisted community
members in the application process.
In Cave Junction, Member is acting as Community Development Coordinator for the Illinois Valley
2010 Community Response Team.
PACIFIC NORTHWEST
RECD Oregon
In Pendleton, Member helped two low-income individuals receive a loan and one individual to receive
a grant to repair their homes.
In Elgin, Member assisted HELP, Inc. in a Housing Preservation Grant that allowed 11 low-income and
very low-income families to repair and rehabilitate their homes. The Member verified eligibility,
determined preservation needs, identified environmental effects, and awarded bids to housing
contractors.
In Roseburg, Member has been assisting the Umpqua Action Network to promote their home repair
program and find housing for the homeless.
In Ontario, Member helped family whose home had been damaged by a fire obtain a loan to pay for
28
repairs of the house.
FS Oregon
Member researched and disseminated information and examples of strategic planning for a Strategic
Planning Task Force; developed a data base for funding sources; completed preliminary planning stages
for a riparian regulation workshop, water quality projects, and preliminary research on a nitrate project;
established a grant writing team; updated a comprehensive plan; and promoted a recycling effort for
the holidays.
NRCS Oregon (Grant's Pass)
Members are working to explain riparian projects to local landowners and are encouraging their
participation in stream enhancement program.
RECD Washington
In Grant County, Member began developing and implementing a comprehensive community needs
survey.
Based in Yakima County, Members are working to implement EZ/EC economic plan and to develop
a statewide, regional, and local inventory of housing resources.
Based in Wenatchee County, Members have begun a comprehensive inventory of community resources.
MIDWEST FLOOD STATES
Missouri
In Columbia, Member began preparing guide sheets and a handbook to aid reclamation of two smaller
tributaries of the Missouri River.
In Charles County, Member obtained existing floodplain management data to begin developing a
Decision Support System computer model for floodplain management.
In Howard County, Member produced an informational memo on flood recovery that was distributed
by the Extension Service and also began collecting hydrologic and agronomic data in order to propose
land-use alternatives for the area.
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In Columbia, Member completed seven basin reports to aid watershed protection.
In St. Charles County, Member provided emergency program assistance to 32 landusers.
In Jefferson City, Member completed data collection for pasture and hayland management booklet and
developed soil and water conservation lesson plan for eventual presentation at 23 local schools.
In Troy, Member investigated local floodwater retarding dams to determine workload.
In Higginsville Member, who started work December 12, 1994, is working to assist sponsors to
complete five dam safety reports and perform maintenance on 15 floodwater retarding dams.
In Warrensburg, Member provided assistance to landowners concerning EWP and ECP flood recovery
work.
In Butler, Member prepared watershed soils planning map for the Miami Creek Water Quality project
and provided assistance to 450 landusers.
In Marshal, Member completed maps on five farms of the sands deposits created by the floods of 1993.
In Fayette, Member assisted five sponsors and 15 landowners to provide flood protection recovery
through the Emergency Watershed Program.
Iowa
Member conducted outreach to increase the number of farmers in the Emergency Wetlands Reserve
Program. Have prepared maps and written materials to assist County Conservation Boards in Fremont,
Mills, Pottawattamie, Harrison, Monona, and Woodbury counties in locating areas for potential in
recreation, tourism, economic development, and wildlife areas. Member revised brochure for Western
Iowa and worked to develop bicycle loops for area cycling clubs; scheduled pasture walks and seminars
with local farmers to promote and develop rotational grazing systems; updating tourism guides, writing
scripts for tours, restoring a farmer's market, and taking an inventory of resources in the African-
American community to create an agricultural heritage area in Northeast Iowa.
Illinois
In Pittsfield, Members completed a Small Businesses Research and Revitalization Project and are
helping update the town's Overall economic development plan. Members have also begun to identify
and promote alternative uses of land in the Conservation Reserve Program by surveying farmers
currently enrolled in the program.
30
North Dakota
Member completed scope and effect determinations on 57 wetland tracts in areas most at risk of future
flooding; began measuring and sealing abandoned wells; helping clean up trailer park damaged by
flooding in 1993.
Kansas
Based in Topeka, Members completed 15% of riparian work in Douglas County and completed 2% of
transepts.
Based in Hays, Members completed off-site review in eight townships, identified all wetlands in two
townships, completing 40% of riparian mapping in 30 townships, and finished six riparian transepts.
Based in Dodge City, Members completed remote sensing work using satellite technology to identify
status of land in six townships.
Based in Hutchinson, Members completed 308% of remote sensing for wetlands inventory in 15
townships.
Based in Lyon County, Member completed riparian mapping of six townships, completed remote
sensing on six townships, completed one field visit to township to verify wetland signature.
Basin in Manhattan, Members mapped 20% of Riley County for riparian work, completed 12 transepts,
and made site checks for potential wetlands on 60,000 acres.
Based in Salina, Member stenciled 200 United States Geological Survey maps.
Based in Abilene, Members worked with five agricultural producers to discuss systems and designs for
agricultural waste management. Worked with 5th graders in explaining soil conservation and non-point
source pollution.
Wisconsin
Members began digitalizing soil surveys in preparation for providing outreach to the communities on
these topics.
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CALIFORNIA
In Apple valley, Members have been working with local agencies to streamline the permit process for
soil scientists to be able to analyze the soil for mapping. Members also prepared a curriculum on soil
for a local high school.
In Auburn, Members have made significant progress creating and implementing fuel reduction plans to
reduce forest and other fires in the area.
In Lancaster and Somis, Members have focused on areas previously impacted by fires and by flooding
and have completed a mitigation plan for the Kinneola area and have completed field work for the
Laguna mitigation plan. In Petaluma, the Member has begun water quality sampling on three adjacent
dairies and has completed one conservation plan.
In Santa Rosa, the Member has trained one dairy operator to use a water quality test kit, is developing
plans to provide such assistance to members of four different local organizations, and has completed
inventory work for a watershed group. In Ukiah, the Member has formed client partnerships to aid two
severely eroded streams, has helped the Round Valley Tribal Community treated 2 miles of stream, and
signed up four local growers for a cost share program to convert to the water-saving drip irrigation
program.
In Redlands, Members have surveyed three dairies totaling 130 acres, eventfully leading to recycling
or eliminating 6,867 tons of waste once practices have been implemented. Each farmers saved an
average of about $9,000 by having the service performed by AmeriCorps members instead of private
contractors. The members also completed a survey of a 5-acre ranch which will eventually lead to the
recycling of 26.5 tons of waste a year. One of the members helps coordinate and teach and Nature
Discovery Program that benefited 690 local elementary students. Members also staked and surveyed
almost a mile's length of the Big Rathbone Creek in order to begin reducing the risk of flooding to area
residents.
Accomplishments of the Northwest Service Academy:
While the Northwest Service Academy AmeriCorps was not specifically part of USDA's
direct grant from the Corporation for National Service, the USDA Forest Service played a
leading role in creating and managing the program. Forest Service employees have provided
significant and continuing planning and technical assistance, and much of the service has
been performed on Forest Service Lands. In addition, it is likely that the Northwest Service
Academy will be tied to this year's USDA's direct application to the Corporation for National
and Community Service. Therefore, this reports includes the Academy's first quarter
accomplishments on Forest Service lands:
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Cascade Streamwatch: The objective was to maintain 2 miles of interpretive trail and harden
six riverside sites while providing on-site education to 300 students. The Members
maintained 3 miles of trail, constructed another quarter mile of trail, hardened 8 sites and
provided on-site education to over 300 students.
Road Restoration: The objective was to seed, fertilize and mulch 9 miles of abandoned roads
and skid trails. All objectives were met.
Wildlife Cutting: The objective was to collect 30,000 willow and cottonwood cuttings for
wildlife plantings this coming spring. All objectives were met.
Huckleberry Field Restoration: The objective was to restore 82 acres of sacred tribal
huckleberry fields on National Forest Lands for the Warm Springs and Yakima Tribal nations.
12 acres of huckleberry fields were burned and another 70 acres of conifer trees were hand
girdled and pruned.
Snag Surveys: The objective was to survey 1,200 acres of snag habitat to determine critical
habitat needs for a variety endangered species including the Northern Spotted Owl. Two
hundred acres were completed before the winter snows forced the teams out.
Roadbank Restoration: The objective was hto ang erosion control netting on 300 feet of
steep Forest Service road cutbanks. All the objectives were met by Members.
Elk Forage Enhancement: The objective was to restore 40 acres of critical elk habitat.
Members helped burn 40 acres for forage enhancement.
Fisheries Projects: 1) The objective was to build salmon smolt rearing channels along 1/4
mile of the Clackamas River and install nine fish protective structures in the channel.
Members met all objectives.
Bull Run Watershed Monitoring: The objective was to open all roads to critical water
monitoring sites after an early winter snowstorm. Members helped clear 15 miles of road
that were critical in maintaining consistent records stretching back over half a century.
White Pine Blister Rust Control: The objective was to prune 20 acres of plantation. Members
completed 22 acres of pruning.
Plantation Enhancement: The objective was to prune 80 acres of Douglas Fir plantations to
enhance the final quality of timber produced. Members completed 80 acres.
Glacier Springs: The objective was to construct 2,800 feet of fence around Glacier Springs,
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Trout Lake's municipal watershed. Members completed 1,000 feet before the winter snows.
Wells Island: The objective was to clear five acres of brush and noxious weeds to improve
wildlife habitat for Canadian geese, herons and bald eagles. Members met all objectives.
Rho Ridge, Buck Creek and Whistle Punk Trails: The objective was to complete 5.6 miles of
trails, 1.2 miles of which was designed for the physically challenged trail. Members met all
objectives.
Primary challenges
In order to meet President Clinton's vision for bringing this exciting new program to
the American people rapidly, USDA faced great difficulties in starting such a large and
complex program with only a few months between approval of our application and the
launch. While we have had our share of relatively minor start-up problems, we are dealing
them with a process of continuous improvement based on constant consultation and site
visits with local project managers.
National identity activities this quarter
USDA has woven the national AmeriCorps identity and philosophy into every steps of
our program. Most sites participated in either launch activities on September 12, 1994 or
subsequently. All USDA members are required to wear at least one article of uniform
identifying them as AmeriCorps Members. All our press releases and informational materials
are now required to have at least two standard paragraphs on AmeriCorps. Since the start
of the program, USDA/AmeriCorps members have met with President Clinton in California,
Vice-President Gore in Kentucky, Senators Leahy and Jeffords in Vermont, Secretary Espy
in Mississippi, Acting Secretary Rominger in California, Missouri, and Maine, and CNCS Eli
Segal in Vermont, Texas, and lowa. The Chief of the USDA Natural Resources and
Conservation Service, Paul Johnson, a former Peace Corps volunteer, also visited sites
around the country and explained his especially-relevant view of national service.
USDA Director of National Service Joel Berg has visited sites, worked alongside
Members, and explained the AmeriCorps vision in Washington, Oregon, California, Nebraska,
Georgia, Vermont, and the District of Columbia. USDA agency AmeriCorps coordinators
David Gibson, Paula Cole Jones, and Lou Woltering have also made numerous site visits
throughout the country in order to spread the AmeriCorps message.