AmeriCorps team spruces up Livingston Manor and Frost Valley

The following is a press release from Catskill Mountainkeeper and AmeriCorps.

Above: Americorps team members work on the storefront of Catskill Mountainkeeper in Livingston Manor in June. Left to right: Sarah Goakey, DaQuan Crockett, Pablo Gonzalez, Charles Turner, Marilyn Ponce. Not pictured: Barton Lucero, Justine Simons.

A team with the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC), an AmeriCorps program, is working with the Frost Valley YMCA to help maintain their current trail systems. For the next seven weeks, eight NCCC members will be working to improve the hiking experience for guests at their retreat center.

The team, Moose Four, will help improve Frost Valley’s most heavily used trails, which have experienced erosion and damage as a result of Hurricane Irene and three major floods. Specifically, they will be maintaining the tread system and installing proper drainage to create more sustainable trails. During its seven-week term with the Frost Valley YMCA, the team aims to improve over two miles of trails, remove invasive species, install water bars for proper drainage and repair two bridges.

“I’m thoroughly impressed with Moose Four’s work ethic, ability to complete challenges, their support to one another and their cheerful disposition, even though I’ve only know them for a short time.” said Heather Bowman, Director of Natural Resources.

Moose 4 is based in Perry Point, MD., but consists of members from around the country. In addition to working with the Frost Valley YMCA, members of the team will be working with the local volunteer fire department, Relay for Life and the East Valley Ranch.

The team is also volunteering with Catskill Mountainkeeper in Livingston Manor.