Youth-led environmental stewardship: Montgomery Village Conservation Corps shines

by Lauren Tuori

As the warm summer sun graces Montgomery Village, a dedicated group of young individuals has been working tirelessly to enhance the beauty and environmental health of the community. The Montgomery Village Conservation Corps, led by crew leader Aaron Poawui, has been making a significant impact on various projects throughout the Village, leaving a lasting impression on both residents and visitors alike.

Comprised of five remarkable young adults, Jayden Jordan, Diego Meneses, Kendyl Barrett, Caitlin Webster and Emmanuel Blackford, this crew has been engaged in a wide range of projects, showcasing their dedication to preserving the natural beauty of Montgomery Village.

Their journey began with the annual 4^th of July parade and celebration. From setting up signs to ensuring a clean and smooth festival, their efforts contributed significantly to the enjoyment of all attendees.

The focus of the Conservation Corps has been the conservation and maintenance of local parks and gardens. At North Creek Lake Park Nature Center and the butterfly garden, they diligently weeded and planted native perennial plants, promoting biodiversity and creating welcoming spaces for local wildlife. Their passion for nurturing the environment has breathed new life into these precious green areas, inviting residents to reconnect with nature.

As stewards of the community, they took up the task of inspecting playgrounds regularly. Their keen eye for identifying potential hazards has led to the timely rectification of issues, ensuring the safety of children and families who use these recreational areas.

This summer, a significant highlight of their work has been their contributions to Lake Whetstone. By conducting shoreline and water cleanups, they have played a crucial role in preserving the lake's ecosystem and enhancing the overall experience for park visitors. They also made the volleyball court more enjoyable by raking the sand and installing a new net. The Conservation Corps has undoubtedly made Lake Whetstone an even more appealing destination for residents seeking leisure and relaxation.

The crew also engaged in community-oriented projects, such as their work at the North Creek Community Center. By diligently removing sediment buildup in the storm drain along the creek, they reduced the risk of flooding and alleviated the burden on the stormwater management system. This thoughtful endeavor showcases the crew's commitment to not only preserving nature but also enhancing the overall well-being of the Montgomery Village community.

Beyond the tangible improvements they have made to Montgomery Village, the Conservation Corps has also been an invaluable source of support for the Village's youth. For many of them, this summer job marked their first foray into the world of work, providing them with essential skills, confidence and a sense of responsibility. The program has empowered these young individuals to become active contributors to their community, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the place they call home.

As summer draws to a close, the impact of the Montgomery Village Conservation Corps remains evident. Their dedication to environmental stewardship and community betterment has left a lasting impression on the Village. The success of this program serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, commitment and youth combine to create a brighter future for us all.

The Montgomery Village Conservation Corps is a 6-week program running 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 14-16 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 at https://www.montgomeryvillage.com/mvf/job-volunteer-opportunities 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!