Et cetera : AmeriCorps NCCC Takes Out the Invaders

By: Alex Johnson

A team of AmeriCorps NCCC (National Civilian Community Corps) members is assisting YMCA Storer Camps on a variety of projects for eight weeks between March 17 and May 13, in Jackson. The NCCC team, Cedar 1, is helping remove invasive species and provide outdoor education to children through workshops to restore the grounds and educate the community about the natural area surrounding the camp.

The 10 member NCCC team is, with proper training in the use of herbicides and brush cutters, removing invasive species on the YMCA Storer Camps’ grounds. These invasive plants include Garlic Mustard, Autumn Olive and Glossy Buckthorn. The team is hoping to clear 10 acres of land during their two month stay. During their stay, the NCCC team is also serving as cabin leaders for groups of fifth and sixth graders from the community for two weeks. They also assist the camps' staff in teaching classes and doing afternoon activities, really experiencing what it is like to work at Storer Camps.

NCCC Members also are educating the community at large in the removal of invasive species through workshops. The long term goal of the workshops is to create a base of volunteers to continue the fight against invasive species, even after the NCCC team leaves. NCCC member Brett Hrdlicka said, “I’m stoked, ecstatic, and very excited to be working on this project.” Through the positive work of the team and the education of the city’s residence, including the children, the job will not only get done, but stay done.

YMCA Storer Camps is one of the top five YMCA’s in the country, serving more than 24,000 people annually. The Camp’s mission is “to put Judeo Christian principles into practice through programs and experiences in the natural environment that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all,” and to “build strong kids, strong families and strong communities.” This includes the restoration of the camp’s grounds through the removal of invasive species, and educating the town’s residents of all ages to appreciate the land and know how to take care of it, which the NCCC team is glad to help with.