The Conservation Corps enjoyed serving Montgomery Village

By Darlene Richardson

When school lets out for summer, the students of Montgomery Village have many options. Some will go to camp, play sports, cool down in the pool or catch up on hobbies. This summer, a group of 5 students ages 14 to16 decided to serve their community and improve the environment by joining the Montgomery Village Conservation Corps. We caught up with them in July and they shared their thoughts on their experience in the Conservation Corps.

“I joined the Conservation Corps because I wanted to give myself the chance to have responsibilities while I reconnect with nature, " says rising high school freshman Camila Gonzalez.

The 6-week program began on June 24 and concluded on Aug. 2. The crew could choose whether to receive a wage for their work or SSL hours. “I wanted to spend my summer doing something while earning money,” says Jose Portillo, who takes pride in doing his job right and is known for his cooperation and politeness. The rest of the crew shared his sentiment, choosing to earn a wage working outdoors.

Just like their crew leader, Nico Carillo, each member of the group applied for the limited youth corps positions during the winter in early 2024 and interviewed during their spring break. This is a first job for most of the crew, but according to Nico they did a great job. “I have been pleasantly surprised with the work ethic of this young group,” he says. “I’ve been impressed with their willingness to work and not just follow instructions, but approach issues in creative ways.” Nico, who studies Science at Clark University applied to the crew leader position with a purpose. “It seemed like a good opportunity to show the next generation how nature and human developments aren’t necessarily opposites. There is nature right in our backyards.”

At North Creek Lake Park, the group received instruction from local Master Gardener and MV Garden Club member, Paula Brooks. “I have really enjoyed working with Paula at North Creek,” says Manka M’mari. “I learned more about our native plants and worked to make our community beautiful and butterfly-friendly.” With Paula’s guidance, the crew created a plant survey that tracks native and invasive species in the park while doing hand weeding and maintenance in the butterfly garden. Through hands-on learning, Paula taught the crew how to identify plants and insects, as well as the ecological impact of the different species.

In addition to the projects at North Creek, the corps removed invasive bamboo, cared for trees all over Montgomery Village, and maintained MVF playgrounds. “My favorite activity has been playground checks, because in this way, we ensure the safety of the neighborhood kids,” says Jasmine Perez. Amanda Simon and Jose agree; they look forward to continuing inspections on all playgrounds before the end of the summer.

Amanda Simon says she is “looking forward to working with the group and learning more skills to use in the near future.” This year's Conservation Corps crew made a lasting contribution for MVF staff and next year’s crew to build on. Since starting the job, “I learned that I really enjoy giving back to the community,” says Jasmine. That sentiment was echoed by the whole crew, and MVF wholeheartedly appreciates the contributions of these students this summer. Thank you, Conservation Corps 2024!

The Montgomery Village Conservation Corps is a 6-week program that runs from late June to early August. Each year MVF hires 5 conservation corps crew members and 1 crew leader. The age range for crew member applicants is 14 to16 years old, and the crew leader must be 18 years of age or older. Applications can be obtained from the MVF Office, 10120 Apple Ridge Road, and online here starting in February each year, with the application window closing in late March. Montgomery Village residents and those from surrounding communities are encouraged to apply!