Earth day will be celebrated Thursday, April 22. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is honoring Earth Team volunteers and celebrating their many contributions to natural resource protection during National Volunteer week, which started April 18 and continues through April 24.
Earth Team is a program that allows NRCS to stretch available resources by partnering volunteers with employees to provide a wide range of services to private landowners and the public. These activities can include conservation technical assistance, office support, teaching and generating awareness about conservation through community projects.
“Whether Earth Team volunteers donate a year, a month or a lifetime to help producers improve their natural resources, the impacts of volunteer efforts are felt far and wide,” said Florida State Conservationist Juan Hernandez. “Last year, 15 volunteers in Florida donated more than 161 hours of service because they believe in our critical conservation work.”
NRCS appreciates the important work these volunteers do. Their efforts help NRCS bring more conservation services to farmers and ranchers. In 2020, Florida Earth Team volunteers provided about $4,379 of benefit to NRCS customers and taxpayers.
The Earth Team volunteer program helps its participants expand their skills and knowledge through community projects. The program also offers participants community service hours, earned academic credit and an unpaid internship in federal service. Visit the NRCS Earth Team webpage to sign up for volunteer opportunities in your community.