Date: April 17, 2007
Contact: Jim LaRock, 507-825-5464

           Superintendent Jim LaRock announced today that the Monument will conduct a Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) program for the 2007 summer season. The purpose of the YCC program is to accomplish needed conservation work; provide gainful employment for 15-18 year olds; and, instill an environmental understanding and appreciation of the park's natural and cultural heritage.

           This year, the Monument will hire up to 4 local teenagers to accomplish some needed resource conservation work. Some of the projects scheduled for this summer include exotic weed control such as sweet clover, thistle, and dames rocket removal to improve the natural and cultural landscapes; assisting maintenance with grounds and facility upkeep; assisting with wildlife and vegetation monitoring; and prairie photography.

           The Monument's eight-week program is scheduled to run from June 11 through August 3, 2007. Enrollees will work a 40-hour week at the rate of $6.15 per hour.

           All interested area youth who are 15-18 years old and have not previously worked for the YCC Program at Pipestone National Monument, are eligible to apply. Applications can be obtained at Pipestone National Monument headquarters between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm. Completed applications must be returned or postmarked by May 4, 2007.