SYRCL announces return of leadership program

Appeal-Democrat, Marysville, Calif.
·2 min read

Apr. 30—The South Yuba River Citizens League (SYRCL), an environmental group that works to protect and restore the Yuba River watershed, recently announced the return of its Youth Outdoor Leadership Opportunity (YOLO) Expedition this summer.

SYRCL officials said the group's field science program has led annual multi-day field expeditions for high school students since 2014. In 2018, YOLO was added in order to "engage local youth in learning about meadow ecosystems, health, and restoration," which SYRCL said is a big part of its restoration work.

"YOLO provides students the opportunity to engage in hands-on field work with SYRCL scientists where students collect data and learn how they can be agents of change," officials said. "Students take away more than dirty hands and memorable moments. Throughout the expedition, students develop their leadership and teambuilding skills and engage in discussions focused on climate change and environmental justice."

SYRCL said it is currently recruiting high school students, graduating seniors, and those interested in the summer science expedition, which is provided free of charge.

"This year, students will install cattle exclusion fencing around vulnerable aspen stands near Loney Meadow, conduct biological studies, and learn about the importance of healthy meadows and meadow-fringe aspen ecosystems," SYRCL said.

This year's YOLO Expedition is set to take place from June 25-28. There also will be an optional extension day on a Saturday in October, if necessary. In order to participate in YOLO, officials said students will need to secure transportation to and from the SYRCL office each day of the program. Any student who lives in an area throughout the Yuba River watershed is eligible for the expedition.

"Many thanks to the National Forest Foundation for funding this incredible opportunity for students," SYRCL said. "We are looking forward to another successful field science season and working with our local students."

The deadline to apply for the YOLO Expedition is May 19. Applications can be found at yubariver.org. Questions about the YOLO Expedition can be directed to Education Director Monique Streit at monique@yubariver.org.