Project Titles:

• Rehabilitate Loading Dock (FFS #R3GN)
• Replace Sand Creek Trail Bridge (FFS #R3GP)
• Employ YCC Enrollees (FFS #R3NA)

State: Minnesota

Project Description: The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Minnesota will receive funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to repair infrastructure and to provide youth with summer employment opportunities. The funding provided will be used for several projects, the largest being the replacement of a 30 foot pedestrian bridge across Sand creek in the Louisville Swamp area of the refuge, near Jordan, Minn. The bridge was destroyed by flooding and had to be closed because it was no longer safe to use. The bridge, the only one over Sand Creek, is part of a larger trail that connects to a state trail system. Once replaced, the bridge will complete the nearly five-mile long Mazomani trail.

In addition to the bridge replacement, another infrastructure project is the repair of a loading dock at the refuge’s Bloomington visitor center. The refuge will also use some of the funds to hire youth as part of the Youth Conservation Corps. This program provides summer employment for youth between the ages of 15 and 18 and provides them an opportunity to work, earn, and learn by completing projects that further the development and conservation of the nation’s natural resources. The most important objective of the program is to take young adults from different social, economic, racial, and cultural backgrounds and place them in an environment where they can cultivate work, social, and educational skills.

For additional information about Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, visit the Minnesota Valley NWR and WMD website.

Photos:

Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar presents a partnership award to Steve Sutter, president of Minnesota Valley Refuge Friends, Inc. Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius (right) joined the Secretary and others for a tour of Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.

News Releases:

Secretary Salazar Announces $204,000 for Infrastructure Improvement and Youth Employment at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge

Secretary Salazar Tours Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Spotlights Recovery Act Projects, Youth Recreation

Originally posted 08/10/2009
Updated 08/13/2009