Youth Volunteers for Conservation (YV4C) Rain Garden Maintenance and Planting

Are you a young adult ages 15-21 who enjoys the outdoors? Join the Youth Volunteers for Conservation (YV4C) program to explore Dane County Parks while building real-world conservation skills. Participants will contribute to habitat restoration efforts and gain exposure to career pathways in natural resources across southern Wisconsin.

Volunteers will help care for an existing rain garden at Stewart Lake alongside Land Stewards through weeding, light cleanup, and basic plant care. Participants will learn how rain gardens and other green infrastructure practices help filter storm-water, reduce runoff, and protect local water quality. This hands-on YV4C event offers a chance to build stewardship skills, support a healthier landscape, and make a visible impact in the community.

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How to Sign up:

1. Step One: Create an Account in MyImpact if you don't have one (one time process)
   • Account application and waiver for 18+ click here. 
   • Account application and waiver for those under 18 click here (requires parent signature)
      
2. Step 2: Complete all waivers before signing up! These are all locate at the bottom of the page under “my profile” – find each section below and complete.
   • DCP/LFHC Transportation Permission - must click “I agree to the above statement”
   • DCP/LFHC Background Check (must be renewed yearly) - must click “I agree to the above statement”
   • YV4C Behavior Agreement – sign and submit the agreement
      
3. Step 3: Sign up for events! After you've created an account and filled out all necessary waivers, you can sign up for a shift here

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What to Wear and Bring:

• Please dress for the weather. It will likely be hot in late July but it recommended that volunteers wear long pants to avoid irritation on your skin from plants or biting insects
• Please bring bug spray and sunscreen.
• Bring a water bottle. Snacks will be provided 

Ages: 15 - 21
Cost: Free

What to Know:

• In case of cancellation, a notification will be made via email and/or phone to participants who have signed up.
• No experience is needed. All tools and training provided.

Accessibility and Language Access:
Our department is committed to providing meaningful access to our programs and resources to all individuals, regardless of primary language or ability. If you need language assistance services or an accessibility modification for this program, please submit this request form a minimum of 10 business days before the program to make the request. Please note, it is not possible for all programs to be modified.