Veterans Conservation Corps preserves natural resources

At a recent event at Holts Landing State Park in Dagsboro, the DNREC Division of Parks & Recreation recognized 13 members of the Veterans Conservation Corps for their commitment to preserving Delaware’s natural resources over the past 11 months.

Since October 2018, these VCC men and women completed nearly 13,000 hours of service including removal of invasive species spanning 1,000 acres, planting more than 2,000 trees and maintaining 173 miles of trails.

The Veterans Conservation Corps is an AmeriCorps National Service Program that enables military veterans and their family members to learn and perform environmental stewardship and trail maintenance throughout Delaware State Parks. Corps participants gain certification, education and hands-on skills training in preparation for careers in the natural resources field.

“I sincerely thank the members of the Veterans Conservation Corps for their service to our country and for bringing their talents to the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control,” said Lisa Borin-Ogden, DNREC deputy secretary. “Their time with us has concluded, but their contributions to the State of Delaware have made a long-lasting impact.”

Applications are now being accepted for the 2019-20 program year. This opportunity is available for military veterans, recently retired veterans, active guard and reserve members, military spouses and immediate family members.

For more information, contact Karen Minner, Veterans Conservation Corps program director, at 302-739-9208.