USU students work outdoors with Utah Conservation Corps
Surrounded by the towering red-rock walls and blooming orchards of Capitol Reef National Park, six Utah State University students are laboring to make a trail handicap accessible. Those students are part of a new Americorps program at USU called the Utah Conservation Corps (UCC).
The UCC has 18 positions open for this summer and fall, which will involve projects similar to the one in Capitol Reef. Participants will receive a $4,050 living allowance and a $2,362.50 education award at the end of the term of service, which runs from May 14 through October 31.
Brittany Stewart has been a member of the UCC since February and said she has enjoyed working outside and with her hands more than anything.
“It’s just nice to work outdoors,” she said. “And to see that I’m actually doing something – you get to see the results of your work. We’ve built bridges, fences, and worked on a few trails in Capitol Reef.”
Keith Shaw, a staff assistant with the UCC, said the program started at USU this January, after Sean Damitz applied for and received an Americorps grant. He said the UCC was doing other projects like working with the USU Water Research Lab, and working with the Utah Department of Environmental Quality.
Stewart said she would recommend the work to anyone.
“The experience you get is great,” he said. “Getting to be outside, I feel like I’m on a paid vacation. Also, it’s cool when people walk by on the trail and thank us for the work we’re doing.”
Applicants must be 17 to 25 years old with a high school diploma or GED. All applications must be received by May 4. To apply or receive more information about the UCC contact Damitz at 797-0964 or e-mail at brcclogan@hotmail.com.