The new MCC

When state budget cuts forced the DNR to stop funding the Minnesota Conservation Corps on July 1, 2003, many natural resource managers and MCC alumni saw it as the regrettable demise of a popular program that has helped young people develop job skills while improving the state’s natural and recreational resources.

Erik Wrede, an MCC staff member, saw the funding cut as an opportunity to reshape MCC as a private, nonprofit organization that will provide a cost-effective—albeit smaller—workforce to build bridges in state parks, clear hiking trails, and the like. And young MCC workers will still learn about conservation in hands-on settings. MCC will keep its name and continue to operate a residential summer work camp for youth ages 15 through 18 and a year-round program for 18- through 25-year-olds.

MCC assets (tools, computers, supplies, and other equipment as well as fund balances) were transferred to the nonprofit on July 1 by the state Legislature. Wrede, now MCC executive director, said the program plans to lease space in several locations throughout the state, including a number of DNR offices. Crews will continue to work closely with the DNR on projects such as removing exotic vegetation from forests, conducting prescribed burns, and constructing trails.

Under the new structure, MCC will employ about 150 workers. At its peak in 2001–2002, MCC had about 300 workers at 35 locations across the state. MCC workers made up roughly one-third of Minnesota’s wildland firefighting force.

Becoming a private nonprofit will give MCC more flexibility and an opportunity to grow, Wrede said. "Because MCC will charge the DNR and other public land management agencies on a fee-for-service basis, we will be able to diversify our funding sources," he said. "In addition, however, we may be able to provide our services at a reduced rate or pro bono if a work detail provides a unique opportunity for corps member training and development."

MCC traces its roots to the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps and the 1970s federal youth and young adult conservation corps. It has been a state environmental stewardship training program since 1981. Wrede said 5,000 to 6,000 youths and young adults have served in MCC. About 5 percent of DNR employees once worked for MCC.

"MCC is an excellent recruitment and training tool to get qualified natural resources workers into permanent positions at both state and federal levels," Wrede said. "We plan to excel in this area."

For information, visit MCC or call 651-793-3888.

Jason Abraham