Earlier this month, we again partnered with Team Rubicon, a veterans group, to accomplish needed timber management on our Rock Creek Confluence Property.
A 16-person volunteer crew spent three days clearing downed trees and thinning standing timber on the property to improve forest health and reduce fire danger. The project also served as a pilot project for potential partnerships between Team Rubicon and land trusts from all over the country.
In addition, the weekend provided the crew with the opportunity to hone their chain saw techniques through Team Rubicon's emergency response saw training program. Through trainings like these, Team Rubicon's volunteers are able to effectively respond to natural disasters. Beyond disaster relief, the program helps veterans find a renewed sense of purpose, which is vital as many veterans return to civilian life after their time in the military.
“Five Valleys Land Trust is excited to partner with Team Rubicon for this pilot project. This program could be a great asset to land trusts across the nation for cost effectively achieving stewardship goals and for exposing veterans to the healing powers of wildland restoration,” says Ryan Chapin, Five Valleys' Stewardship Director.
Five Valleys looks forward to partnering with our veterans for future conservation projects!
