This summer marks the seventeenth year of the Youth Conservation Program in Grand Teton National Park! Grand Teton National Park Foundation has proudly supported this program since its inception, and we are pleased to welcome seventeen participants from across the country to the YCP crew this year. They will spend ten weeks improving trails, preserving historic sites, and learning what it takes to manage and conserve a national park.
The first two weeks on-the-job have been busy with training, orientation, and team building. The crew learned how to safely use a variety of hand tools, participated in a mental health seminar, and received their wilderness first aid certification.
Between orientations and trainings, YCP had the opportunity to complete important trail work throughout Grand Teton. The crew's first project included walking around Jenny Lake and learning about drains and how to prevent erosion by keeping water off of trails. They also assisted one of the park's trail crews by preparing logs for an upcoming bridge project, and cleaned drains on the Cascade Canyon horse trail.
The season is off to a great start and we look forward to watching this motivated group of teens progress throughout the summer. Thanks to all of our generous supporters who help make this program possible year after year!
