The Mile High Youth Corps’ Land Conservation Program engages young adults, ages 18-24, in conservation-based work focused on environmental improvements on public land. Participants work on small crews with 7-9 members for three months to two years, dependent on enrollment terms. Crews works includes increasing accessibility for the public, restoring native habitats, and mitigating the effects of catastrophic wildfires and floods. Earning a bi-weekly stipend and an AmeriCorps education award, young people from all economic backgrounds can afford to serve their community and invest in their own personal growth.

Corpsmembers receive an education focused on environmental stewardship, civic engagement, healthy living, career readiness, leadership, and social justice. Education at MHYC takes place primarily in the field, with three hours designated for education per week. All crews receive significant tool safety and risk management training. Skill training is tailored for each project and may include: trail construction, native plant and invasive species identification, tree planting, flood and erosion mitigation techniques, and fence construction. Corpsmembers receive First-Aid/CPR and S-212 Wildland Fire Chainsaws certifications.

I assist in the operations of these crews by recruiting and outreach efforts in the county.