The next generation of conservation leaders

The Student Conservation Association has 6 crews working throughout the Chicagoland area & I was able to capture them in action before they wrap up their summer programs. These crews of hard working young people are inspiring, knowledgeable, & passionate about conservation.  They were working on invasive species removal, installing check steps so others can enjoy trails, seed collection, clearing land and planting a tree nursery, & the construction of a nature play center that many children will enjoy soon.  These diverse groups of young people find ways to learn together and laugh often while sweating through real HARD work.  They teach me so much & I am grateful to be able to partner with The SCA & help share their good work in building leaders in conservation.  

As I spent time with each crew one thing was clear- they have formed real friendships with those they are working alongside of and their bond is strengthened by the pride they feel in the impact they see in their daily work in various forest preserves throughout our area.  One student shared, “It is so rewarding to see these projects completed and know WE did that- it is such a sense of accomplishment.”  

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Special thanks to The SCA crews at Trailside Nature Museum, Ted Stone Woods, River Trail Nature Center, & Harms Woods. The next time I am appreciating one of these beautiful outdoor spaces with my family I will remember these hard working young people that invited me to share stories with them of their good work in conservation. Here are some of the images we captured on one of their last weeks working hard. 

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