The County Executive’s Corner – 25 Years of Youth Empowerment in the Rockland Conservation & Service Corps

As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Rockland Conservation & Service Corps (RCSC), I want to reflect on the incredible impact this program has had on our county and its young people. Over the past quarter-century, the RCSC, a program of the Rockland County Youth Bureau, has not only fostered environmental stewardship but also empowered our youth to take action in preserving and protecting our precious natural resources.

For those of you between the ages of 18 and 25 who have completed high school, I encourage you to consider joining this transformative program. If you’re eager to work outdoors this summer and make a difference in our community, this is your chance! From May 19th through August 8th, RCSC members will engage in diverse projects such as water and land conservation, invasive species management, environmental education, and more. 

Not only will you earn a $3,500 stipend, but upon successfully completing 350 hours of service, you’ll also receive an education award of $1,565.08 to support your future endeavors.

Imagine spending your summer constructing hiking trails, building community gardens, or performing vital work to protect our streams. 

Past members have gained invaluable experience and professional connections through partnerships with organizations such as the Palisades Interstate Park Commission, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rockland, Lamont Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, and our very own Rockland County Division of Environmental Resources.

RCSC is more than a program—it’s a mission. Our commitment to educating, empowering, and inspiring youth to take ownership of environmental issues is stronger than ever. 

Participants develop hands-on skills, build leadership qualities, and foster a deep connection to nature. These are experiences that not only shape careers but also build lifelong advocates for our environment.

The deadline to apply for this year’s program is April 7, 2025. However, applications will be accepted on a rolling basis after that date if positions remain available. To apply or learn more, call 845-364-2937, email rcsc@co.rockland.ny.us, or visit the Youth Bureau’s website.

In addition to recruiting members, we’re also seeking host sites to partner with RCSC. Local municipalities and non-profit organizations can propose specialized projects that address pressing needs—from stormwater management and trail construction to environmental education and invasive species management. Partnering with RCSC is a cost-effective way to complete impactful outdoor projects that might otherwise be out of reach.

Over the years, host sites have reaped tremendous benefits by engaging RCSC members in projects such as:

  Stormwater management 

  Stream and water quality assessments

  Flood mitigation,preparation, and recovery

  Trail surveying, maintenance, and construction

  Neighborhood revitalization and beautification

  Invasive species management

  GIS/GPS mapping and applications

  Environmental education

If you’re a municipality or non-profit organization interested in hosting Corps members this summer, please reach out to us at 845-364-2932 or email rcsc@co.rockland.ny.us.

Let’s continue to build on 25 years of success by inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders Together, we can preserve Rockland County’s natural beauty and ensure a sustainable future for all.

 

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