15.931: youth and veteran organizations conservation activitiesinundative biocontrol strategy for yampa and green watersheds:this program utilizes qualified non-profit youth- and veteran-serving…

15.931: youth and veteran organizations conservation activitiesinundative biocontrol strategy for yampa and green watersheds:this program utilizes qualified non-profit youth- and veteran-serving organizations to carryout appropriate natural and cultural resource conservation, education, volunteer service and educationprojects on department of the interior lands through authorized national park service programs. The goal of this project is the long-term management of highly invasive riparian plants, with a focus on leafy spurge and russian knapweed, through the use of volunteers and deployment of biocontrol agents. This project will also permit for experiential science, resource management, and recreational opportunities for between 5 75 regional (yampa valley uintah basin) youth annually. This project provides solid financial support seed money for friends of the yampa to facilitate watershed health and restoration by direct purchase of insects used in biocontrol of target invasive species, reimbursement of costs incurred by volunteers participating in the collection, disbursement, and monitoring of insects throughout the project area, and financial compensation for overall project management. When complete, this project will result in an educational and recreational opportunity for regional youth, assist with the management of highly invasive riparian plants, and enhance an existing long-term relationship with a partner organization that provides volunteer support and labor for critical natural resource operations within the river canyons of dinosaur national monument.beneficiaries include private non-profit institutions and organizations that support youth, young adult career training and development, and youth education in the areas of natural and or cultural resource conservation and management. Additionally, individuals families, students, and the general public will receive a benefit from the development and execution of these programs and projects.