Americorps serves in Ozaukee

An AmeriCorps NCCC team is serving with the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust and the Lac Lawrann Conservancy.

The team is restoring ecosystems and expanding public access to nature in Washington and Ozaukee counties from April 30 to June 10.

The NCCC team of seven members from the North Central Region campus of Vinton, Iowa is focusing on restoring ecosystems by planting trees, restoring stream banks, and clearing trash from local conservation areas. Another major focus is on creating and maintaining boardwalks in both the Land Trust and Lac Lawrann. Finally, the team is performing prescribed burns in order to reduce unwanted invasive species, like buckthorn, and promote the growth of native species, such as red and white oak.

Through their service, NCCC members are helping the Land Trust and Lac Lawrann to restore environmentally sensitive areas, both preserving and beautifying the forests and watershed for residents. By building and maintaining both group's boardwalks and trails, the NCCC team is helping residents gain access to recreational trails and a greater appreciation of natural areas, especially the local waterways.

“I love helping out on the trails and aiding environmental groups” says team member Cody from Altoona, Iowa. “I want to go into forestry after my service is done, and this is perfect training.”

The Ozaukee Washington Land Trust preserves and restores environmentally sensitive land across Washington and Ozaukee Counties, particularly in the Milwaukee River watershed and the Lake Michigan shoreline. The Lac Lawrann Conservancy focuses on educating the public about environmental stewardship and conservation, as well as providing hiking and other recreational opportunities.

The AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) and its FEMA Corps units engage 2,800 young Americans in a full-time, 10-month commitment to service each year.

For more information, visit www.nationalservice.gov.