Kick Off Meeting Press Release

PRESS RELEASE
(FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE)

CONTACT: Tom Davidock (project advisor)
PHONE: 570-622-4124 ext. 120

CONTACT: Sierra Gladfelter (student coordinator)
PHONE: 570-943-2198

DATE: August 31, 2005

The Schuylkill Student Conservation Club (SCC) of Schuylkill County will host their first meeting on Sunday, October 2nd, 2:00pm, at the Schuylkill Conservation District Office, located at 1206 Ag Center Drive, Pottsville PA, 17901. The office is located along the Gordon Nagel Trail, between Pottsville and Cressona. The SCA is open to high school students in Schuylkill County who are looking to make a difference in the community through environmental and conservation projects. Please come if you are interested!

The idea of a Student Conservation Club was sparked after the 2005 Schuylkill River Outreach Team participants (a conservation summer camp put on through the Conservation District) looked for additional opportunities to get involved in environmental projects in Schuylkill County. The participants wanted to start a club where high school students could get together and do something positive for the environment and community, and in the process meet new friends interested in doing the same thing.

The Schuylkill Conservation District is sponsoring the club to get it rolling, however coordinator Sierra Gladfelter says, “Eventually I would like to see SCA self-sustained, raising its own money on projects that not only act as fundraisers, but also makes a difference in the environment.” Tom Davidock, Natural Resource Specialist for Schuylkill County, will act as advisor for the club.

At the first meeting the Student Conservation Club will discuss possible future projects and set the next meeting date. The club plans on having planning meetings every quarter, hosting conservation projects monthly, and offering smaller outings in-between. The SCC’s plans to host its first project by constructing wildlife habitat at the Schuylkill Firefighters school in Frackville, the date of which has not yet been set.

“I want the SCC to feel laid back so members keep coming back,” explains coordinator Sierra Gladfelter. “Instead of only doing conservation projects and going home, I want there to be time afterwards to socialize. That way there is an opportunity to learn, make a difference, and have fun!”

For more information please contact Tom Davidock, Schuylkill Conservation District @ 570-622-3742 ext. 120 or email tdavidock@co.schuylkill.pa.us. Or contact Sierra Gladfelter, SCA coordinator @ 570-943-2198 or e-mail mgirlsierra@losch.net.