NEWARK, N.J., July 2, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Six Newark area high school students are spending their summer completing outdoor conservation projects through a six-week citywide high school program managed by the Student Conservation Association (SCA) and funded in partnership with Prudential and the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation. Kicking off its inaugural year, the program is designed to inject a much-needed "greenness" to Newark's urban landscape, promote conservation and the enhancement of Newark's natural resources, increase environmental awareness, and provide local urban youth with paid summer employment, hands-on experience, leadership opportunities and team-building skills.
Composed of students from Newark area high schools, program participants receive a monetary stipend for their summer conservation crew work, with the added benefit of weekly environmental education days, community service, job skills and career development. Participants were recommended by school counselors, teachers and community members, while many applicants expressed a strong interest in the environment and contributing to their local communities. The high school summer conservation program runs from July 2nd through August 10th.
With trail construction, re-vegetation and invasive plant removal at parks and green spaces throughout the city, students participating in the program are supervised by an experienced crew leader for intensive projects scheduled at the Greater Newark Conservancy, Branch Brook Park, South Mountain Reserve and other surrounding work sites. Environmental education days will include the study of ecosystems, conservation principles and environmental awareness, as well as a 4-day recreational camping/hiking trip at program's end.
SCA is a nationwide conservation force of college and high school volunteers who protect and restore America's parks, forests, and other public lands. For nearly 50 years, SCA's active, hands-on approach to conservation has helped to develop a new generation of conservation leaders, inspire lifelong stewardship, and save our planet. To learn more, visit www.theSCA.org.
Editors: Contact SCA Media Relations Coordinator M. Brandon Frazier at 703-524-2441 or bfrazier@thesca.org to arrange site visits to conservation service projects, photo opportunities and/or student interviews.