The Veterans Conservation Corps (VCC) was presented a plaque and letter of commendation for volunteer restoration work on the Duwamish River. The letter, signed by President George W. Bush, stated in part, “Congratulations to the members of the Partners of the Duwamish Alive! Coalition on receiving the Coastal America 2007 Partnership Award for your work to restore and protect the Nation’s coastal environment.” The VCC assisted with vegetation restoration, wildlife habitat restoration, and garbage cleanup on the Duwamish, with a major activity on April 19.

The primary mission of the Veterans Conservation Corps is to assist veterans by providing volunteer opportunities on projects that help protect and restore Washington’s rivers, streams, lakes, marine waters and open lands. It began in Washington State in 2007, and is housed at Green River Community College hosted by the GIS, Natural Resources, and Water/Wastewater programs.

The program, directed by Mark Fisher, has 30 Afghanistan and Iraq military veterans.

Michael Farnum, a recent retiree from the US Army writes about the benefits of this program in the Western Forester ,a newsletter published by the Society of American Foresters.  Michael is currently working towards a BS in Natural Resources/GIS at Green River Community College. His career goals are to work in research and analysis with GIS in forestry or wildlife management. Michael is a team leader with the Veterans Conservation Corps, the Green River Society of American Foresters Student - Chapter Treasurer, and the GIS Alliance Chair. His military career fostered a passion for the outdoors. The VCC and GRCC are providing the tools needed to start a second career which will allow him work in the best office ever made, our forests.

Learn more about Green River Community College's Natural Resources Program.