Region 2

Description

The purpose of this project is to mitigate and repair damages to Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge, caused by its proximity to the U.S./Mexico international border and illegal immigration. Impacts to the refuge include a tremendous amount of litter and debris (8 lbs. average per immigrant is left on the refuge), a network of footpaths and denuded ground, illegal roads, impacted riparian areas, damaged and cut fences. Services provided by Southwest Conservation Corps include litter clean-up, fence repair, and fence and post removal. This is part of an ongoing project that has been active for nearly 10 years in volunteer efforts to clean up immigrant litter on the refuge. It is a continuation of the past 3 years of litter clean-up and fence work provided by Southwest Conservation Corps. Work areas and outdoor conditions can be difficult with rugged terrain, long distances to walk, without shade and sometimes in brushy, scratchy vegetation. The hard-working ethic and youthful fitness of the Southwest Conservation Corps work crew are well-suited for this project. SWCC is well organized, arrives equipped with their own vehicles and camping equipment, and two disciplined crew leaders who run the crew in an efficient manner. Competition would make it difficult and time-consuming to find an organization that can equal the efficiency and productiveness of Southwest Conservation Corps.

Who can apply

• Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (other than higher education)
• Nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status (other than higher education)

Contact

Bonnie Swarbrick <br/>Outdoor Recreation Planner <br/>520-823-4251 x108
bonnie_swarbrick@fws.gov