Youth Conservation Corps Accepting Project Proposals from Community Organizations

For the 18th consecutive year, the Nova Scotia Youth Conservation Corps (NSYCC) is accepting proposals from groups interested in hiring youth between the ages of 17-24 to participate in unique environmental projects this summer.

Community groups in Nova Scotia wishing to get assistance with their projects will have until Feb. 26 to get their proposals in to the Department of Environment and Labour.

"With the environment being such an important issue in Canada, it is important that students have the opportunity to work on projects that make a difference in our environment," said Mark Parent, Minister of Environment and Labour. "The NSYCC has provided youth important employment skills while helping community groups reach their environmental goals."

The program will pay 75 per cent of the labour costs of a crew of up to four youth, and will provide up to $100 per participant for project expenses and gas mileage.

Environmentally friendly project proposals are being accepted from community groups, businesses, government agencies and environmental organizations.

The Nova Scotia Youth Conservation Corps is asking that projects be in one of five key areas, including watershed management, environmental education, air-quality management pollution prevention, and climate change.

Youth will earn $8.50 an hour. They will be trained in first aid, occupational health and safety, Workplace Materials Information System and basic environmental issues.

Additional information is available on the program's website at:
www.gov.ns.ca/enla/ess/ycc/ .

Potential community partners can also phone 902-424-4924 for additional information.

Project proposals must be received no later than Monday, Feb. 26.