The Conservation District frequently has outdoor service projects suitable for groups, scouts or individuals who wish to provide service to their community. Volunteer groups and Eagle Scout candidates team up with a District staff member to plan and carry out a specific project, such as habitat restoration, maintaining a prairie planting or assisting with various site cleanup and painting projects.

• QUALIFICATIONS: See below, minimum age and application process varies by project. Volunteers must be physically capable of carrying out the duties of the position they choose.
• EXPERIENCE: No experience required for most projects.
• Time commitment: To schedule a group project, contact the Volunteer Coordinator at least one month in advance. Eagle candidates should allow a minimum of three months to complete their project.

For more information, contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 815.338.6223 x 229 or Volunteers@MCCDistrict.org (click to email).

 

Eagle Scout Projects
Eagle Scout candidates should call the Volunteer Coordinator several months in advance of their 18th birthday or proposed completion date to obtain a list of available projects. Before beginning the project, the scout’s plan must be approved by the Conservation District, the scout leader, and the Council Advancement Committee. Eagle Scout candidates need to allow sufficient time to meet their deadline – visit the project site, meet with District staff, recruit and train their work crew, procure supplies, arrange transportation of equipment, and complete paperwork. Not all projects are seasonally appropriate, and scouts may need to adjust their schedule based on weather and the availability of District staff. An application must be completed before beginning work on the project.

 

Adopt-A-Trail Program
Adopt-A-Trail partners make a one-year commitment to pick up litter and report damage or dangerous conditions observed on patrol each month along their adopted section of trail. Flexible scheduling and a  wide range of conservation area trails or sections of the Prairie Trail to choose from makes this a perfect volunteer opportunity for individuals, families, scouts, clubs, school groups and businesses. A sign posted near the trail acknowledges the partner’s support of natural areas. Contact the Volunteer Coordinator for an application.

 

Group Service Projects
At least one month in advance, call the Volunteer Coordinator to find out what opportunities are available for your group.

• Youth groups, including Scouts and School clubs/classes
   Adult supervision is required for minors
• Adult groups, including garden clubs, religious groups, corporate volunteers
  work with District staff or volunteer stewards in site & trail restoration tasks

Individuals and Students
Extra credit or community service requirements for classes may be met by participating in Habitat Restoration Days led by Volunteer Site Stewards. Call the listed Site Steward in advance. For locations of regularly-scheduled sessions (click here to go to habitat restoration workdays)
                             

 

Court-Ordered Community Service Workers
The District may utilize court-mandated service workers over age 18. To learn more, contact the Land and Facilities Department at (815)338-6223 x 211.

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