Launched this summer, the Youth Conservation Corps provided over 60 Portland-area teens summer jobs protecting and enhancing natural resources, trails, and the urban forest in and around Portland.

The Corps was managed by the Parks Bureau and led by Program Coordinator Greg Hawley, Crew Leader Sid Tyler, and City Nature West Manager Astrid Dragoy.

Crew members EJ Cordero and Leigh Quenton presented an overview of their experience with the Corps to Council on Wednesday afternoon, sharing before and after photos of ivy removal areas, memories of their experiences, and appreciation for the program.

Left to right: Coordinator Greg Hawley, Rob Ingram, Commissioner Saltzman, EJ Cordero, Leigh Quenton, Commissioner Fish, and Astrid Dragoy