Corpsmembers build trails, improve wildlife habitat, improve forests, help with fire suppression, and work on other environmental projects across the state. Corpsmembers receive valuable experience working with professionals in the field and receive AmeriCorps national service benefits. It traces its roots to 1974, when the DNR was assigned to administer a new federal program, the Youth Conservation Corps. Participants spend one week exploring natural resources careers, six weeks working on special projects, and a final week wrapping up the program and learning about education opportunities. In an effort to reduce the spread of harmful aquatic species, participants conduct inspections at public water access sites on lakes and rivers infested with these exotic species.
Inspectors gain natural resource experience and protect our environment.
However, they are not immune to funding cuts. Over the years they have ridden the roller coaster of loss of federal money, threats of elimination from the state budget, and inability of budgets to keep up with inflation. Outside the DNR, it may entail contracting with federal agencies, nonprofit groups and others. This diversification will make the MCC less vulnerable to funding shifts. It also may give future teams more chances to work in community development as well as in traditional natural resources projects.