AmeriCorps Team Blazes New Trail at Rediscovery Forest

From ORFI News June 2008, Oregon Forest Research Institute

A group of AmeriCorps volunteers has shown that, in getting an education, they also can give an education at the Rediscovery Forest. Eleven young men and women from around the country spent eight weeks at The Oregon Garden near Silverton as part of an AmeriCorps team. The young people, ranging in age from 18 to 24, worked on environmental restoration projects and built a half-mile long trail as part of OFRI’s Rediscovery Forest.

The work allowed the volunteers to learn about Oregon forests and trail building while leaving a legacy that will help with outdoor forestry education in the future. “Their work helps OFRI get students and the general public into forests and offer new educational experiences,” said Julie Woodward, Rediscovery Forest education specialist.

The Rediscovery Forest, a partnership between OFRI and The Oregon Garden, is a dynamic demonstration forest and outdoor classroom located at The Oregon Garden near Silverton. This educational forest helps students and other visitors discover why Oregon’s managed forests are essential to sustaining our quality of life and our environment.

AmeriCorps volunteers meet critical needs in education, the environment, public safety and other areas. They’re paid a stipend for living expenses and earn an award to help defray higher education expenses. AmeriCorps is a U.S. government-backed program administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service.

 


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