The City of Mishawaka is excited to announce the arrival of an AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) team, set to begin an important ecological project along the Mishawaka Riverwalk. This dedicated team of five members will be in the city from August 12th through September 13th, 2024, working tirelessly to enhance the natural beauty and ecological health of the area.
Ecological Restoration and Invasive Species Mitigation
The NCCC team’s primary focus will be on mitigating invasive species along the Riverwalk and planting native species to restore the natural habitat. This work is critical in preserving the biodiversity of the area, ensuring that native plants and wildlife can thrive. The team’s efforts will help control the spread of non-native plants that can choke out local flora and disrupt the ecosystem.
Educational Initiatives and Interpretive Signage
In addition to their hands-on ecological work, the NCCC team will also contribute to the community’s understanding of local ecology by creating interpretive signs along the Riverwalk. These signs will provide educational information about the native species being planted and the importance of invasive species control. The goal is to foster a deeper connection between the community and the natural environment, encouraging residents and visitors alike to appreciate and protect Mishawaka’s green spaces.
Collaboration with the Res and Continued Efforts
The team’s work will extend beyond the Riverwalk, as they will also collaborate with the Res to perform similar invasive species mitigation and ecological restoration tasks. The Res, a beloved local nature area, will benefit from the team’s expertise and labor, ensuring that it remains a vibrant and healthy environment for both wildlife and the community.
Jacob Crawford, the Landscape/Urban Forestry Director for the Parks Department, played a pivotal role in securing the NCCC team for this project. His vision and leadership have been instrumental in bringing this valuable resource to Mishawaka, and he will continue to guide the team’s efforts throughout their stay.
AmeriCorps NCCC’s Role in the Community
AmeriCorps NCCC is a national service program that engages young adults in team-based service projects across the country. Their work in Mishawaka aligns with their mission to strengthen communities and develop leaders through service. The City of Mishawaka is honored to host this team and looks forward to the positive impact they will make on our local environment.
The NCCC team will be staying at the Res during their time in Mishawaka, fully immersing themselves in the community they are serving. Their presence and work will leave a lasting legacy, contributing to the ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance Mishawaka’s natural spaces for generations to come.
Join Us in Welcoming the NCCC Team
The City of Mishawaka invites all residents to welcome the AmeriCorps NCCC team and to learn more about their work. As they labor to improve our natural areas, we encourage the community to engage with them, learn from their experiences, and appreciate the vital role that environmental stewardship plays in our city’s well-being.
For more information about the AmeriCorps NCCC team’s work in Mishawaka or to get involved in local conservation efforts, please contact Jacob Crawford, Landscape/Urban Forestry Director for the Mishawaka Parks Department.
