WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and SportsRecovery funds, area young adults, aim to stop invasive species

Recovery funds, area young adults, aim to stop invasive species

SHERWOOD (WKOW) -- Governor Jim Doyle announced Thursday a Recovery-funded "green jobs" program that will employ 55 young adults this summer at boat landings across the state to combat invasive species.

"With this Recovery-funded pilot, Wisconsin wins in three ways," said Secretary Gassman, who made the announcement on behalf of the Governor. "It provides young people with meaningful summer ‘green' jobs outdoors, not just a paycheck but an opportunity to explore careers in recreation, conservation and environmental protection. It helps protect our lakes and rivers from Eurasion watermilfoil, zebra mussels and other invasive species. Finally, it strengthens partnerships to ensure a first-rate workforce for the jobs of tomorrow."

Secretary Gassman announced the Invasive Species Demonstration Project at High Cliff State Park near the Calumet County Village of Sherwood. Gassman also met with watercraft inspectors at the park's boat landing on Lake Winnebago.  

The ARRA funds make it possible to employ five young adults in each of the state's 11 workforce development areas. The individuals, 18 to 24 years of age, have been trained as watercraft inspectors by the DNR. Working 20 hours a week at $8 per hour, they have been dispatched to lakes and rivers known to contain invasive species.

Under the supervision of the DNR and its community partners, the watercraft inspectors will work at boat landings, informing and educating the public about aquatic invasive species. Duties also include inspecting boats, observing boater behavior and entering the information into an online database. The pilot is scheduled to run eight weeks. Total project cost has been estimated at approximately $98,500.

Secretaries Gassman and Frank intend to establish a permanent working relationship that involves their partners, provides youth with summer jobs and continues the fight against invasive species.