SYC Wilderness Crew 2020 Generic Manual

Summer Youth Corps Wilderness Crew Crew Member Manual

“Motivation is when your dreams put on work clothes.�

- Ben Franklin Statement of Purpose The Wilderness Crew, an important component of the Summer Youth Corps, maintains the overall mission and goals of Conservation Corps Minnesota. The purpose of this position is to provide an opportunity for youth to continue building experience in the field of conservation and to provide additional learning opportunities. Four or five weeks of the summer will be spent in backcountry locations where the members will work, learn, and play. Structured leadership development opportunities for the crew members are built in to the work schedule and educational activities throughout the summer. At the end of the summer the youth will have enhanced backcountry camping methods, conservation techniques, understanding of environmental issues, and leadership skills.

WELCOME TO

A Wilderness Crew Member (WCM) is: a hard worker, a positive example, inclusive of others, dedicated to the corps, encouraging, able to bring out the best in others, and able to share the best of themselves.

WELCOME Congratulations! You are on your way to experiencing one of the most memorable summers of your life. For four or five weeks, you will work, live, and spend time with nine other people, stepping outside your comfort zone, meeting new people, learning to live and work with different people, and having the experience of a lifetime.

This “How To” manual is intended to provide you with the general philosophy and basic nuts-n-bolts details of how the Wilderness Crew position operates.

A lot of material is covered here so that you can have a successful summer.

This being said, it is impossible to cover all situations your crew may encounter. Part of the reason you were hired was for your ability to figure things out. With this guide, support from staff, and you and your crew’s ability, there is no doubt that you are in for a fantastic experience.

STRUCTURE The Wilderness Crew operates with two Crew Leaders and eight crew members. The project will take place either on Isle Royale National Park or in the Apostle Islands National Park which might mean spending more time in backcountry locations than a first year crew member would. Safety, planning, organization, energy, and creativity become essential components to a successful experience. Wilderness Crew plays an important role in the overall program and will be seen by new crew members as something to aspire to.

Throughout the summer you will work closely with your crew, project sponsors, and other Conservation Corps staff members. It will be important to maintain open communication, offer each other support, and remain flexible. All of these things will help your crew be successful. One Assistant Director will be your point of contact on head staff. This means that they will be involved with your crew’s initial training and they will check in with you throughout the summer to provide support, offer perspective, and share your good stories. While on the island, you will be out of contact with the Assistant Director due to your location.

SUMMER PROGRAM RULES You will have to live by some basic ground rules. These rules are in place for the safety of everyone in the program and the growth of healthy young adults. Breaking a BIG 9 rule is grounds for being sent home immediately. A refusal to follow other Corps policies will result in a Incident Report (IR). Three IRs will result in being sent home immediately.

DO • Be on time for work and activities • Work hard and follow directions • Be a helpful and contributing member of your crew and our Corps community • Push yourself to develop new skills, try new challenges, and meet new friends • Respect yourself, others, the equipment, and the environment • Have a positive attitude

DON’T (also known as BIG 9) • Abuse drugs • Drink alcohol • Smoke cigarettes • Fight • Gamble • Have weapons • Vandalize or steal property • Harass anyone • Engage in exclusive relationships

Code of Ethics Respect yourself and others by: Making positive choices and decisions which contribute to the Conservation Corps community.

• Acknowledging each other as individuals.

• Abiding by all policies and procedures.

• Maintaining open communication to resolve any conflicts that may arise.

• Working hard within your abilities.

• Maintaining a Safety 1st attitude at all times (while riding in Corps vehicles, working during the day, taking part in after-work activities, and hanging out at your campsite).

•

Respect the environment in which you live and work by: • Leaving the site better than when you found it.

• Making conscious efforts to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.

• Understanding the impact and purpose of projects and the Corps as a whole.

• Applying “Leave No Trace” principles.

Communication

Conservation Corps highly encourages letter writing to parents and friends.

Please note that e-mail, text message, & social media access is not available during the program. Stamps & envelopes should be brought with you at the beginning of summer. Phone use is not available while on Wilderness Crew.

Youth will call home before & after living on Isle Royale or the Apostles.

Packages Don’t Send packages: It will be impossible to deliver them to your youth.

Mail We recommend writing letters to your youth ahead of time, giving them all the letters unopened, and dating each with a time to open (so they can “get” letters from home while away. Mail received the first week of the program may be hand delivered to youth, otherwise youth will receive it the last day: Name of Youth St. Croix State Park St. John’s Landing/Conservation Corps 35130 St. John’s Landing Rd. Hinckley, MN 55037

Visits and Time Off

You are expected to remain in the program for the entire 4—6 weeks. Weekends are spent with the crew doing recreational activities, resting and laundry if available (most likely laundry will not be available). Parents/guardians may not visit the base camp during the summer (only at the start and end of the program). In the case of emergencies, arrangements can be made for youth to go home and return to the program when they are ready.

Pay Allowance

You will receive an allowance of $1,110 over the course of the 4-week program and $1,650 over the course of the 6-week program. Youth will work 40 hours of work each week. After completing all check-in procedures upon arrival at camp, you will be enrolled in our payroll. Youth will be paid bi-monthly on the 10th and 25th of each month. Checks may be delayed if you do not bring appropriate identification cards to check-in.

IMPORTANT — You will not be paid for work days and hours missed. If you leave the program early you may be held financially responsible for the cost of SYC staff transporting you home & the program materials given to you at the start of the program. Also, your paychecks will be sent home unless the Program Manager is informed to keep them at our St. Paul office for pick up.

ARRIVAL DAY AND TRANSPORTATION SCHEDULE The first day of the program: (July 6 or July 17th) If you are receiving a ride to the base camp from your parent/guardian you must arrive at St. Johns Landing, in St. Croix State Park at 1:00pm on the start day of the program. Once you arrive, we will make sure all hiring paperwork has been properly signed and all documentation has been received.

Shuttle: If you are signed up to take the St. Paul Shuttle to St. Johns Landing in St. Croix State Park, please arrive at the Conservation Corps Central Office at 10:00am. Once you arrive at the headquarters we will make sure all hiring paperwork has been properly signed and all documentation has been received.

The last day of the program: (August 15) Ceremony: Parents/guardians are invited to join us on the last day for a short ceremony. Parents and guardians should arrive at St. Johns Landing in St. Croix State Park at 10:15 am and can leave with their youth at 11:15 am.

Parents/guardians not able to attend the ceremony should plan to pick up their youth at 11:15 am at St. Johns Landing in St. Croix State Park, or at 1:15 pm at the Conservation Corps Central Office in St. Paul. **The following page includes a map and address for St. Johns Landing in St. Croix State Park and the Conservation Corps Central Office in St. Paul.**

“I learned a lot about myself and the skills that I have .

I've made friends with people I probably wouldn't have known otherwise . I enjoy being outside more .�

Theo M. - Youth Crew Member 2011

St. Paul Shuttle

Conservation Corps Central Office: 60 Plato Blvd. E. St. Paul, MN 55107 You and your parents/guardians are responsible for transportation to and from St. Johns Landing in St. Croix State Park or the St. Paul shuttle.

If your parents plan to drive you to the base camp, it is required that every vehicle driving to St. John’s Landing purchases a group daily permit ($5 per visit) or an annual state park sticker ($25 one-time fee).

The Conservation Corps has a shuttle available from the Twin Cities to the base camp at the beginning and end of our programs.

If you are planning to take the shuttle at the beginning of the program, please contact Teresa Butel at (612) 417-9968 by July 1st

St. John’s Landing/Conservation Corps 35130 St. John’s Landing Rd. Hinckley, MN 55037

St. Croix State Park is located 15 miles east of Hinckley,

IMPORTATN DATES Wilderness Crew: Program Starts — Monday, July 6th or Friday July 17th Program Ends — Saturday, August 15th

612-417-9968

RESPONSIBILITIES The Wilderness Crew has unique responsibilities in addition to the policies and procedures of the Summer Youth Corps.

Safety The Wilderness Crew will be in backcountry project locations. These locations provide experiences that few people get to have. However, in these remote settings the safety of the crew takes on even greater importance. Three things each person on the crew must do are: 1) Think “Safety” during all parts of the day 2) Follow all Conservation Corps safety policies 3) Know emergency evacuation plans Doing these things will foster a “Safety First” attitude within the crew and provide peace of mind by knowing what to do in the case of an emergency.

It is also important to talk with the project host about any safety concerns that are common or unique to the area. Be aware that the project host may not follow all of our safety policies, but it is imperative that we still follow our safety policies. The project host may have additional requirements depending on the type of work and project location.

Daily Responsibilities • Encourage, show, and build respect on crews and with all crew members • Show flexibility and openness to different points of view • Take initiative/show ambition • Show an eagerness/willingness to learn • Work to the best of ability on all projects • Use tools safely and act in a “Safety First” manner • Identify potential safety hazards and bring them to the attention of the crew leaders • Help maintain a clean and organized campsite and worksite • Practice “Leave No Trace” camping principles • Communicate daily with your crew leaders: Be clear, understood, open, consistent, and timely. This will help everyone perform at a high level • Report to the Crew Leaders and Assistant Director • Other duties as necessary “Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, and I – I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.” ~Robert Frost

Reflection Working on a crew with the same 10 individuals for 4 to 6 weeks can be challenging. The act of learning from the experience often happens through reflection. Keeping a journal of your experience this summer will help you to continue learning about yourself and your abilities. Here are some ways to do that: Daily Notes: Take a few minutes each day to write down successes, letdowns, things you’ve improved on, and skills to continue to develop Weekly Themes: The EA coordinator will provide you weekly themes to include in your reflections. Take some more time to think about these things and put your thoughts down on paper.

Supervision At the Conservation Corps, supervision of youth participants is a top priority, and we have a firm policy to ensure youth have the opportunity to safely engage in positive activities and carry out their responsibilities as crew members.

Our adherence to this philosophy ensures that every youth participant has the opportunity to engage in service-learning and environmental stewardship opportunities while performing conservation work.. We work together as a team to ensure that youth participants gain self-confidence, enhance work skills, and develop healthy behaviors.

However, persons who are unsupervised may not have the same potential to get the most out of this experience. Our supervision policy has two leaders in place for each crew of eight youth. Crew Leaders will not be able to constantly supervise all youth at all times.

However, Crew Leaders must set out clear expectations for behavior. Furthermore, Crew Leaders and youth are responsible for knowing the whereabouts of crew members at all times. Crew Leaders must know the location of all youth at all times and be able to communicate quickly in the event of an emergency. Youth must know the location of the crew leaders at all times and be able to communicate quickly. The standard measure of this range is shouting distance or within eyesight. If for some reason the youth must be away from the Crew Leaders and are out of communication distance, they must: be with two other youth, tell one of the crew leaders where they are going, and establish a return time.

Every person has the right to expect to have a safe and positive experience. By working together as a team to provide adequate supervision, we can help ensure that all youth participants and summer staff have a great summer with Conservation Corps Minnesota.

ENCOURAGING PHRASES ☺ ☺ ☺ ☺ ☺ ☺

☺

Safety, Fun, and Gettin’ the Job Done!”

Cheers (“Motivation” & “Hoo-Rah”) “Hey, nice job!”

“That water bar you put in looks really impressive!”

“You can do it. I know you can.”

“If we work together we can do it.”

“I’ve never thought of it like that.

Tell me more.”

☺ ☺ ☺ ☺ ☺ ☺ ☺ ☺

☺

“MCC, a community, that is we.”

“Safety, safety, safety.”

“Work hard. Play hard.”

“Yee-Haw!!”

“Thanks for a great day!”

Don’t be afraid to teach and learn.

Be specific with feedback.

Build each other up.

And … remember to smile!

“I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived.” ~Thoreau

LIVING IN THE BACKCOUNTRY One of the first responsibilities of the Wilderness Crew is to learn about responsible backcountry living. Even more than the other crews, you must constantly be aware of how your actions impact the environment while you are camping, working, and hiking. The following information should provide useful guidelines to the Corps expectations. You will learn more about backcountry living and “Leave No Trace” principles during the first few days of the program. You will receive training in the necessary skills to ensure that you understand why these practices are important.

Spike campsites are selected in order to accomplish nearby work projects.

Whenever possible, the spike campsites are located in areas that have already been impacted such as established campsites, former log landings, or day-use areas. It is important to minimize the impact on the site while your crew is spiked in the location. Keep in mind that it may not be possible to align with all “low impact” standards as one would on a personal backpacking trip, but these do serve as useful guidelines to aspire to. As always, crews are required to follow the policies of the project host organization.

WASHING • • • •

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Your crew will be provided with biodegradable soap. Use this sparingly. Do not bring your own soap to the island.

Never use soap to wash bodies, clothes or dishes directly in lakes or streams.

Use a “gray water” pit to dispose of soapy and dirty water. Dig a pit about two feet wide by two feet deep and fill it with medium size rocks When you pour waste water in the pit it will fill up but gradually seeps into the surrounding soil. Food waste (as well as forks and knives☺) should be retrieved from the gray water pit. It is not a garbage nor a compost pile.

For one night stays, do not dig a gray water pit. It is better to find a natural drainage area or to use the “broadcast” technique after first removing any large food particles.

“Tell me and I forget, Teach me and I remember, Involve me and I learn.” ~Unknown

SPIKE CAMP SET-UP Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a site for your spike camp: • Choose an area where your presence will not have a lasting impact. You should be able to disguise all traces of your presence when you leave, so choose an established campsite where possible, or select an area with minimal undergrowth to clear, etc.

• Camp at least 200 feet away from lakes, streams, and swamp areas unless there is already an established campsite.

• Be aware of safety hazards like standing dead and rotting trees.

• Do not put nails in trees. Tie rope around the trunk or a sturdy branch instead. Be sure to untie the ropes when you leave.

• Know your emergency evacuation route and plan.

Keep in mind the golden rule for crews, “can we return this to the way it was when we arrived?” Be inventive in creating a comfortable site. The site should remain simple, organized, and clean. At the same time, attempt to design an inclusive environment with “community areas.” For example, you might utilize existing stumps and logs to serve as a cooking and eating area. Such amenities not only make life more comfortable, they are an outward sign to visitors that the crew enjoys life in camp and are committed to the experience. Remember to disassemble and return anything you have set up before breaking camp.

CAMPFIRES In many backcountry areas it is still possible to have a campfire. Here are a few guidelines to observe: • Never make a fire if it will take longer than five minutes to find plenty of dead wood on the ground. Never break branches from a living tree, whether the branches are dead or alive because you may leave an ugly scar and hurt the tree.

• If you make a fire, keep it small. Never make large bonfires. They are unsafe and unnecessary.

• Use established fire rings if available. Never use rocks, as the black soot is impossible to rub off.

• Gather only enough wood for your needs. If you are in a campsite for several weeks, be sure that you forage for dead wood over a wide area so you don’t take all the dead and rotting wood necessary for other forest life.

• If you are unable to have a campfire, you can substitute a lantern or a candle.

• When extinguishing the fire, pour water in a circle starting from the outside and working in. Stir the coals to ensure all get wet. Do not leave the fire are until all the ashes are cool to the touch.

• Never leave a fire unattended for any length of time.

TRAVELING SAFELY IN THE BACKCOUNTRY •

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Every crew should have adequate (topographic) maps that cover the travel and worksite areas. All members should have adequate skills for reading those maps. Travel plans and evacuation routes should be clear to all members before beginning a hike.

Conservation Corps crews always travel in a group. Members should be able to see and communicate with the person traveling in front of and behind them. The crew structure is the greatest asset to assure member safety, and we cannot compromise the autonomy of the crews.

Everyone should know the location of the first aid kits and they should be easily accessible.

For very short hikes, solo travel may be acceptable, but arrangements must be made to assure safety, such as radio use, check-ins, or clearly established arrival times. This will be at your Crew Leaders’ discretion.

WEATHER Plan ahead. Look at the weather forecast before your crew heads out. Be prepared for varying weather and temperatures. Remember that weather conditions around Lake Superior can be very different from those further inland. You should be prepared for rain and cold weather at any time of the year. Always have raingear with you. Lightning is common on hot summer afternoons.

If you see lightning while on the work site: Do: • Squat down with your feet facing downhill, keep your hands off the ground, sit on something dry and non-conducting (i.e. made of plastic or rubber, not metal).

• Avoid being the tallest object near a body of water.

• Get out of the water and off wet ground.

• Get away from objects that conduct electricity (tent poles, pulaskis, etc).

• Disperse the group so that, in the event of a strike, everyone is not affected. That way someone can provide first aid.

• Watch for hair standing on end and listen for high pitch zinging sounds; these indicate that a strike is imminent.

• Stay alert to weather patterns; most weather in our area comes from the west and moves east.

Don’t: • Don’t stand under the only tall object in the area. It is better to be under a group of trees.

• Don’t stay at or near peaks or ridges. Head to lower ground quickly.

• Don’t hide in shallow caves.

IN CASE OF INJURY If someone should be injured while in the backcountry, your first priority is to give them the immediate care that they need. Obviously, your response will depend upon the severity of the injury, but if medical attention is required, immediately radio your project host and advise him/her of the situation. Be sure to give them your exact location. They will then be able to send help.

If the injury is severe enough to require immediate evacuation, it will probably be by helicopter. Do not move the victim, but find the nearest location where a helicopter could land (a good thing to look for upon first arrival to an area). Have the crew members prepare the site; this may include clearing the landing zone and/or lighting a small signal fire. If the injury doesn’t require immediate evacuation but does require further medical attention, arrange evacuation with the sponsor. Before you enter the backcountry, you will meet with your crew and project host to form a plan. What will your response be if someone is injured? Everyone on the crew and the project host should know the plan.

• • • •

Ideas for Encouraging Safety: Morning “Water Toasts” with a safety theme. (“Here’s to safety, fun, and getting the job done!”)

Give recognition to someone who made a safety conscious decision. Be SuPeRB! (Spacing, Pacing, Rhythm, and Balance!)

Have a morning safety dance just for fun!

Model safe work habits.

FOOD The food menu for Wilderness Crew will be decided by your crew during training. No matter what, it is important to eat nutritious food.

Your crew will purchase food together before getting to Isle Royale or The Apostles. You will take all you need for the spike when you leave, thus reducing complications with refuels. Perishables will be purchased by the crew leaders (using Corps funds) while on spike.

SAMPLE MEAL PLAN MEAL PLAN for 1 week: Wilderness Crew Only Serving Size = 8-10 people

4 spike weeks total

Breakfast

# of Meals per week

Oatmeal with brown sugar, walnuts, raisins

2

Granola and Dry Milk with fruit (dry or fresh)

2

Malt-o-Meal with dry fruit and other toppings

2

Pancakes with syrup, PB, chocolate chips

1

Total # of breakfast

7

Lunch

# of Meals per week

Crackers, cheese, salami, tuna, mustard **

3

Pita, hummus, GORP

2

Tortillas, PBJ, tuna, cheese

2 Total # of lunches

7

** depending on spike, fresh veggies may be packed Dinner

# of Meals per week

Alpine Spaghetti with garlic, parmesan cheese, butter/oil

2

Hearty soup with biscuits

2

Black beans and tortillas with cheese

2

Chili & corn bread (cooks choice to add canned corn & rice)

1

Total # of Dinners

7

FOOD PROTECTION

Some of the critters you’ll encounter during the summer will be those brave enough to wander into your camp. Raccoons, mice, porcupines, and squirrels will be the most common; occasionally a moose or bear may be seen. Although it is incredibly exciting for crews to observe the behavior of these creatures, it is important to protect you food for several reasons.

• Wild animals should remain wild. Allowing them to eat human food could be disastrous, as they may become dependent upon that food source and not forage for their own natural foods.

• Having a bear problem, or even 25 little mice running around, could decimate your food supply, forcing an unplanned refuel which may take a while to reach you.

Methods of Food Protection Prevention is the key to a critter-proof camp. Keeping a very clean camp is essential. Never leave food or dirty dishes sitting out after meal time. Never allow people to keep food in their tents. Holes will be nibbled in tents or backpacks with food in them. Your crew is financially responsible for any damage to tents or Conservation Corps equipment due to neglect. Use containers with tight fitting lids to prevent raccoons or bears from getting into your supply. Use plastic bags that are well-sealed to reduce food odor and prevent spilling.

The following items are useful for food protection: • A van ☺ • 5 gallon buckets w/ tight fitting lids • Coolers • Bear boxes • Coolers • Rope (50 feet minimum) • Ziploc bags • Plastic containers with lids

WATER

Water is your most precious resource in a spike camp. Ensuring that the crew has a constant supply of clean, filtered water is one of the primary responsibilities of the Crew Leaders. All members of the crew should have two water bottles to use. Never run out of water.

The crew will have water filtration systems to use for collecting and purifying water. Regardless, it is important to find clean water sources to draw from. Choose areas with moving water, such as creeks and streams, or draw from larger lakes. Avoid drawing water from small, unmoving sources such as the edge of a pond. Dehydration, the result of not drinking enough water, can be a dangerous and even life threatening situation. It is everyone’s responsibility to make sure all members of the crew are drinking enough water throughout the day.

HYGIENE IN THE BACKCOUNTRY

(From By Michael Hodgson, Adventure Network, 1999) One of the most obvious, but perhaps under appreciated means of staying healthy involves washing the hands after bowel movements, before attending to wounds and always before preparing food. Rough percentages indicate that between 25 and 40 percent of all foodborne illness can be traced to the hands.

For maximum clean, but not 100-percent bacteria removal (some bacteria is important for your health!), use hot water that is almost too hot to touch, between 100 to 120 degrees F. Soap up and work the lather into the skin and under the nails for at least thirty seconds.

Rinse thoroughly with hot water again. Re-soap, re-rinse and then dry. Drying is perhaps one of the most overlooked and yet most important steps since washing alone will leave some bacteria suspended in the few droplets of water clinging to your skin, enhancing the possibility of a chance migration from skin to food and then...use your imagination.

Of course, in the backcountry, hot water is a rare thing indeed, unless you are packing copious volumes of fuel. For wilderness use when hot water becomes a luxury, it is recommended to use a germicidal soap or anti-bacterial hand sanitizer.

Tips for staying germ-free • Do not share bandanas, toothbrushes, razors, water bottles, eating utensils, etc.

• Wash and air dry all community kitchen gear.

• Keep anyone who is ill or appears to be ill away from the cooking area.

• Wash your hands before preparing meals and after every time you go to the bathroom.

• Purify all drinking water via water filtration, chemical treatment or boiling.

• Do not allow people to stick their hands into a bag of food, such as trail mix—shake the food into open hands instead.

WOMEN’S HYGIENE Preventing Infection Going without a shower for days on end has more than just aesthetic implications. It could nurture Candida and result in a yeast infection, one of the most common afflictions to strike women on extended wilderness trips. The possible causes of a yeast infection, in addition to poor hygiene, include use of antibiotics or birth control pills and vaginal cuts or abrasions from tampons or intercourse. Yeast makes its presence known with burning and/or itching in the vagina. The best treatment, of course, is prevention. Wash the vaginal area daily. If you’re infection prone, wear cotton underwear; synthetics promote the growth of bacteria. Allow the crotch to air dry by wearing loose-fitting clothing.

A Happy Bladder If you’re susceptible to urinary tract infections, take special precautions to prevent one on wilderness trips. Drink plenty of water to flush your system. Relax when urinating so your bladder empties completely. Carry ciprofloxacin tablets (sold under the name Suprax) or some other antibiotic for treating urinary tract infections. If an infection occurs, do not intake juices with high concentrations of sugar.

Remember these points • Wear tampons instead of sanitary pads, if possible.

• Use unscented sanitary supplies.

• Wash regularly with unscented baby wipes. Consider bringing a little squirt bottle to clean yourself when you’re on your period.

• Bring changes of clean underwear and wash your undies frequently.

Frequently Asked Hygiene Questions” (by Andrea Gabbard From Adventure Network) Q. How do I dispose of tampons when I’m in the wilderness?

A. First of all, glad to hear that you’re not letting your menstrual period get in the way of having a great outdoor experience! Follow "pack it in, pack it out" guidelines for all trash: take along extra garbage bags (I prefer Ziploc baggies) and put your used tampons or sanitary napkins in there, then carry them with you and dispose of them properly when you’ve returned to civilization. This may sound yucky, but think of it this way: how enjoyable would it be to inadvertently uncover someone else’s used sanitary stuff in the wilderness? Best to take it all with you.

Q. How do you stay clean after a long day on the trail and no shower or water source in which to bathe?

A. The easiest way is to take along a supply of baby wipes. Pack them in; pack them out. I usually ration myself four per day: two for morning, two for night.

One is to wipe sunscreen off my face, the other is for "private parts."

TRAINING There will be a brief training period for your crew before you depart on your spike. It is imperative that the time is used effectively. The Crew Leaders and Head Staff will facilitate the training. These days of training are important; also realize that much of the learning will happen while on spike. The following is a list of topics that you will cover: • Conservation Corps Rules and Expectations – all of the policies apply to all members of your crew. The expectations of working hard, making decisions that will benefit the crew, and looking to grow are all still in effect. You should also know that, as Wilderness Crew members, you are being held to a higher standard. What you did in previous summers is a good base to grow from, but not a level to stay at. More is expected of Wilderness Crew members, because you are capable of doing more.

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Emergency Procedures – While evacuation and taking shelter in the backcountry is more challenging, it is still possible and a plan is in place for it. It is important that you understand the plan in the case of an emergency. You should be prepared for thunderstorms, tornados and cold weather, and be familiar with example evacuation plans.

Group Process and Team Dynamics – Groups of people tend to go through basic phases related to their interactions with each other and overall performance. These phases can be represented by the words Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, and Adjourning.

Learning about this theory will help your crew evaluate where you are at throughout the summer and come up with plans for improvement. Using group initiatives early on will help to develop an atmosphere of trust, unity, and open communication.

Conflict Resolution — As up-and-coming leaders and as crew members about to embark on a 4-week projects together, a training on resolving conflict can be a valuable resource. Conflict resolution builds people as leaders and, if learned and practiced, will reduce the chances of having an interpersonal conflict become serious while in the backcountry. Skills covered will include active listening, dialogue v. debate approaches, the DESC model of communication, “sandwiching” feedback, and the use of “I statements”. The crew should also reach consensus on “ground rules” for handling conflict.

Canoeing and Water Safety – Wilderness Crew projects can be in locations where travel by water is required. Hands-on training about canoeing skills and water safety will help you prepare for and approach these situations with a “safety first” attitude. Canoeing skills include: using paddle strokes, portaging a canoe, using PFDs, handling rollover situations, and using stabilization techniques. Water safety rules include: using the “buddy system”, always having a staff member present, not jumping or diving, and identifying safe entry and exit points.

Site Specific Information – Background information about the location including history, ecology, current use, and writings can be used to orient your crew to a new location and build a framework for future learning. The assistant directors will provide resources for this. You will cover information about the work project, the camping location, and the people with whom your crew will be in contact.

Leave No Trace – You might be familiar with these principles, but it may have been a year since many people on your crew have used them. A detailed refresher course will help to bring everyone up to speed.

Gear Sorting and Packing – Experience with backcountry travel will vary among members of your crew. Time will be set aside to pack as a crew. This will ensure that your crew has everything it needs and that no one has items that are unnecessary. All of your group’s cooking and camping materials will also need to be divided amongst the crew.

Map Reading – All crew members should be able to read a map and identify the campsite(s) and worksite(s) they will be using, along with major routes of travel in the area.

The crew’s personality will develop throughout the summer. However, much of the tone will be set in the first few days at St. Croix State Park and the in the first week of your spike.

Make sure to set a tone that is consistent with the philosophy of the conservation Corps: hard work, learning, community, and fun.

PACKING LIST PERSONAL ITEMS—BRING FROM HOME PERSONAL ITEMS—PROVIDED BY THE CORPS  1 Warm sweater or sweatshirt (preferably  Work helmet not cotton)  Shin guards  Long underwear top and bottom  3 Safety glasses  1 winter hat  2 work shirts  1 pair WARM gloves or mittens  Large camping backpack (if needed)  1 pair of comfortable pants to relax in  2 pair sturdy WORK gloves  1 pair shorts CREW ITEMS (PROVIDED BY THE CORPS)  2 t-shirts  Rope for clothesline  7 pair underwear  Tents (And Bug Tent)  2 pair regular socks  Rope for tarp  5 pair wool/heavy weight hiking socks  Tarp to cover small things  Brimmed Hat  2 large bags to store cooking equipment  Swimsuit  Duct Tape  1 pair of GOOD/STURDY work pants  Compass  Work boots/hiking boots w/ankle support  Duluth Pack (NOT STEEL TOE) – brake in ahead of time  Garbage bags (Line Hiking / Day Packs)  Belt or suspenders  Water Filer / AquaMira  Sneakers/shoes to wear around camp  Toilet Paper (Ask Sponsor)  Sandals KITCHEN GEAR (PROVIDED BY THE CORPS)  2 or 3 water bottles (bright colors)  3 working stoves  Headlamp (MANDATORY) + extra batteries  2 cook kits  Pocket knife  6 large MSR white gas bottles  Raincoat and rain pants  1 gal of extra gas (ask Sponsor)  Sleeping bag, sleeping pad, pillow  Sporks (10-12)  Feminine hygiene bags (Ziplocs)  Forks (2)  Baby Wipes  Spoons (2)  Medications (possibly motion sickness  Plastic bowls & mugs medication for boat ride)  Extra mug for water filtration ease  Tupperware container for food  Re-sealable plastic bags  Watch (cheap, water resistant)  Tupperware storage containers for every  Books (1 or 2) member  Small card or board game  Pots with lids (2/5/11 qt)  Adventure Book (small journal)  Propane bottle/white gas  Water jugs  Pencil/pen  2 Plastic cutting boards  Sunglasses and sunscreen  2 Sharp Knives  Toiletries  Kitchen matches, 2 butane lighters  Sense of humor!  Can opener  Bandana  Scrubbies & Steel Wool  Towel for swimming  Dishtowel  Frisbee  Coffee percolator  Small daypack  Spatula  OPTIONAL: large camping backpack (if you  Rubber scrapper do not own this, the corps will provide you  Wooden spoon with one)  Ladle  Stove repair kit  Large skillet (maybe a Western one!)

CLOTHING Selecting appropriate clothing for backcountry work and travel takes some consideration, but ultimately will pay off when your pack is light and your body is comfortable in a myriad of conditions. You are advised to bring certain types of clothes, even though not everyone will be able to bring all the ideal items. The idea is to produce the best selection with the given options. Here are some things to consider.

Physiological Considerations Select clothing which will allow you to maintain a stable body core temperature, dissipate excess body heat and moisture, and protect themselves from the elements.

General Principles of Clothing Selection 1)Clothing should be roomy and comfortable. Select clothes that allow for reasonable freedom of movement and clothes that allow for unhindered blood flow (avoid tight elastic cuffs around the wrists and ankles) 2)Clothing must keep you warm. Some layers must be capable of providing the wearer with “insulation” (i.e., dead air space which creates a thermal barrier between the body of the wearer and the colder environment). Also select items that can be layered to allow the wearer to respond to the changing environmental conditions and levels of exertion.

3)Clothing should keep you dry. Inner layers of clothing should be of materials which absorb minimal amounts and wick excess moisture away from the skin. Protective layers of outer clothing (e.g., rain gear and such) should repel moisture to maintain the effectiveness of insulation underneath.

4)Clothing must be dependable. Zippers, buttons, stitching, etc. should be of heavy duty quality that will hold up.

5)Clothing should be versatile and have multiple uses to minimize pack weight. For example, shorts can double as a swim suit, a long underwear top as a night shirt, etc.

Clothing Material Characteristics There are advantages and disadvantages to every type of clothing, and there is no “perfect” way to pack for backcountry travel. Do the best you can, and use the following information to help you make decisions.

Wool Advantages: good insulator, retains some warmth even when wet, will dry via body heat while being worn, relatively cheap to purchase, tightly woven materials cut down on wind penetration.

Disadvantages: coarse fibers may irritate skin, can shrink if washed or dried at high temperatures, difficult to completely dry heavier weaves, doesn’t compress well.

Good for: sweaters, socks, hats Cotton Advantages: very comfortable in warm weather, cheap to purchase, easy to wash in all temperatures.

Disadvantages: absorbs water readily, doesn’t insulate when wet, doesn’t insulate well in general, heavy when wet, slow to dry, will mildew under constant wet and humid conditions, major contributor to hypothermia when wet or damp.

Good for: underwear, t-shirts

CLOTHING (CONT.) Synthetic Fibers Synthetic fibers can fall into three categories: insulating fabrics, insulating fills, and shell fabrics. These fabrics are used as undergarments, outer garments, and external shells.

Advantages: very lightweight, absorb virtually no water, conserve heat very well, dry rapidly while being worn, feel comfortable against the skin, non-allergenic, less prone to mildew than natural fibers, come in a variety of weights/blends/colors.

Disadvantages: relatively expensive to purchase, will melt or burn readily when expose to sparks or flame, insulators without shells offer minimal protection from the wind, pick-up and retain body odors readily, some may not withstand abrasion well.

Good for: raingear, gloves, jackets Fabric Blends Fabric blends are a combination of nylon, cotton, wool, polypropylene, and other fibers.

Advantages: when constructed properly can combine the best qualities of each fabric.

Disadvantages: when constructed improperly can combine the worst qualities of each fabric.

Breathable Waterproof Fabrics These are fabrics coated or bonded with microporous membrane which keeps the rain out but lets the smaller water vapors escape.

Advantages: allow body moisture to escape, prevents external moisture from penetrating the garment, stops wind penetration very well.

Disadvantages: expensive to purchase, durability varies but often not up to trail work durability, do not breathe well after getting dirty.

DEER TICKS AND LYME DISEASE There are deer ticks in some areas where we work throughout the summer. Deer ticks are carriers of Lyme disease. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread by the bite of a deer tick. Early symptoms include a bull’s eye rash, fever, and muscle aches. Lyme disease is very treatable if caught early. Not all deer ticks carry Lyme disease. One of the first activities of the Summer Youth Corps is learning about ticks and preventative techniques.

It is recommended that after you return home from the summer you keep an eye out for any of the symptoms aforementioned. If you suspect symptoms of Lyme disease, do not hesitate to tell your parent/guardian and see a doctor as soon as possible. If you are diagnosed with Lyme disease after the summer is over, please inform the office by calling 612-417-9968.

ASSUMPTION OF RISK Safety is the top priority of the Conservation Corps. This applies to both work and non-work situations. However, risk is inherent in the various program activities.

Youth are expected to work to their potential during the workday. Furthermore, youth are expected to fully participate in after work activities that are part of the program. Participating in Conservation Corps activities involves known and unanticipated risks which could result in physical or emotional injury, paralysis or permanent disability, death, and property damage.

Risks include, but are not limited to, broken bones, torn ligaments or other injuries as a result of falls or contact with other participants; death as a result of drowning or brain damage caused by near drowning in pools or other bodies of water; medical conditions resulting from physical activity; and damaged clothing or other property. Such risks simply cannot be eliminated, despite the use of safety equipment, without jeopardizing the essential qualities of the activity.

Please review and sign the release of liability form included in the hiring paperwork. By doing so, you expressly accept and assume all of the risks inherent in the program activities or that might have been caused by the negligence. By signing you acknowledge that your child’s participation in these activities is purely voluntary and they elect to participate despite the risks.

“Don't be too timid and squeamish about your actions. All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

MEDICATION POLICIES If you use prescription medication OR over the counter drugs during the summer, you will fill out medication paperwork on arrival day. All medication, both prescription and non-prescription, will be turned into our staff and distributed throughout the summer. All medications need to be brought in the original container or package. It is very important to bring enough medication for the entire program.

If you normally take prescription medications or over the counter medications during the school year but will not be taking them during the summer, our staff need to be informed of this change. It is very important to clarify all medical needs prior to the start of the program. The best way to do this is to make sure all paperwork gets turned in on time.

It is your responsibility to purchase any prescriptions and/or non-prescription medication prior to the beginning of the program. Any medication expenses that accrue throughout the summer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION •

After being offered a position, YOU MUST complete and sign all forms — personal, tax, and medical — and return them to the Conservation Corps Central Office.

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PLEASE MAIL BACK FRONT & BACK copies of ONE SET of documents & Health Insurance Card along with your paperwork (or email front & back copies to Teresa.Butel@conservationcorps.org) as you will not be able to start the program without us having the proper documentation on file.

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YOU MUST mail or bring photocopies of documents on or by your first day with program.

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You MUST sign your Social Security card before making copies (if it is not already signed).

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It is necessary to present original unexpired documents on your first day for verification by Conservation Corps staff.

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One set of the following documents is necessary. Here are your choices:

Set #1

Set #2

Set #3

Set #4

Set #5

Passport

Driver’s license & Social Security Card (Signed)

School Photo ID (Or recent School Report Card) & Social Security Card (Signed)

Driver’s License & Original U.S. Birth Certificate

School Photo ID (Or recent School Report Card) & Original U.S. Birth Certificate

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You will also need to bring your health insurance card. Conservation Corps staff need to see the original and a copy will be kept for our records.

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Conservation Corps Minnesota is not responsible for any lost, damaged or stolen items.

This includes electronic devices, clothes, and money. Bring only what you need and do not bring electronic devices (digital cameras and medical technology are permitted).

“[Our daughter] came home with a greater sense of self. She did things she never knew she could do. We were so proud of her and her accomplishments.” Youth Parent, 2011

A BRIEF HISTORY Civilian Conservation Corps In the 1930's the country was in a financial depression and the spirit of the people was at an all-time low. It has been estimated that more than two million youth were aimlessly wandering the cities and the country in search of jobs and a future. On March 4, 1933, Franklin D. Roosevelt became President of the United States. In his first 100 days in office, he initiated several programs to get the country going again. One of the most widely acclaimed and accepted programs at that time was the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC).

The CCC recruited young men into a peace-time army to conserve the land, forests and waters, to build parks and to build young people’s dignity and work skills Life in the Corps appealed to the American frontier spirit. More than three million young men and 8,500 women worked for $1 per day, room and board. Decades later, many said it was the best years of their lives.

Civilian Conservation Corps members were true conservationists long before there was an Earth Day. On millions of acres, they worked to slow down erosion and replant depleted forests. They built more than a thousand national, state, county and city parks. They saved our country.

Youth Conservation Corps In August 1970, the 91st Congress enacted legislation to create the Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) . Patterned after the CCC, the objectives were to accomplish needed conservation work on public lands, provide gainful employment for 15 -18 year-olds from all segments of society, and to develop youth through education and appreciation of the nation's natural environment and heritage.

Minnesota Conservation Corps When federal support for the YCC ended, the Minnesota Legislature created the Minnesota Conservation Corps (MCC) with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

The program carried forward the mission of engaging youth and young adults in natural resource work. MCC remained within the Minnesota DNR until it was eliminated from the state budget in 2003 when the nonprofit Friends of the Minnesota Conservation Corps assumed operation of MCC. Current Youth Programs In 2010, MCC changed it’s name to Conservation Corps Minnesota to better reflect the Corps’ work as it launched a smaller model of its young adult program, Conservation Corps Iowa, in Ames. Conservation Corps Minnesota’s other youth program, Youth Outdoors, is for Saint Paul and Minneapolis teenagers who meet 12 hours per week afterschool and Saturdays for education and service projects. The Conservation Corps also has several AmeriCorps programs for young adults, ages 18 to 25.

CONTACT INFORMATION If you have any questions or need more information, please contact: Teresa Butel Summer Youth Corps Program Manager Teresa.Butel@conservationcorps.org

612.417.9968 (Cell) If you can not reach Teresa and it is an emergency, contact: Hollis Emery Program Director 651.209.9900 ext. 23 651.373.1344 (Cell) Conservation Corps Minnesota 60 Plato Blvd. E, Suite 210 St. Paul, MN 55107 www.conservationcorps.org “Conservation Corps has helped me realize being you is all you need to be and shouldn't try to be anything less. The work projects help promote the message of taking care of the earth and the feeling that people can come together to make a difference. I’ve made amazing life long friends at CCM and feel safe in the open and inclusive environment CCM provides.”

Tyler R. Youth member 2010, 2011

CLOSING THOUGHTS As you prepare for your summer of Wilderness experiences, look ahead to the wonderful opportunity you have. With a positive attitude, a willingness to try new things, an acceptance of living without normal comforts, and a view of each day as a unique and rare experience, you will discover more than just an island. You will learn about yourself, your peers and leaders, and about the beauty of the world around us. This may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you. Enjoy!

- Peace be the Journey -

Conservation Corps Minnesota

carrying on the tradition and legacy of service learning and youth development