Youth Volunteers for Conservation (YV4C) Wild Parsnip Removal

Are you a young adult ages 15-21 who enjoys the outdoors? Join the Youth Volunteers for Conservation (YV4C) program to explore Dane County Parks while building real-world conservation skills. Participants will contribute to habitat restoration efforts and gain exposure to career pathways in natural resources across southern Wisconsin.

Volunteers take direct action to protect park ecosystems by removing invasive wild parsnip, a plant that crowds out native species and can harm both people and wildlife. Participants will learn how to safely identify and manage invasive plants while contributing to a healthier, more resilient natural areas. 

Sign up is Required - All sign ups for the program are through our MyImpact Volunteer Portal. 

• For youth over the age of 18, fill out a wavier, please click here. 
• For youth under the age of 18, o request a youth account and fill out the wavier, please click here. 
• After you've created an account, you can sign up for a shift here! 

What to Bring:

• It will likely be hot and sunny. Please bring a brimmed hat and sunscreen. 
• Parsnip is a plant that can burn skin if exposed to sunlight. Please make sure to wear long, sturdy pants and a long sleeved shirt. Work-gloves will be provided.
• Bring water bottle. Snacks will be provided. 

Ages: 15 - 21
Cost: Free

Accessibility and Language Access:
Our department is committed to providing meaningful access to our programs and resources to all individuals, regardless of primary language or ability. If you need language assistance services or an accessibility modification for this program, please submit this request form a minimum of 10 business days before the program to make the request. Please note, it is not possible for all programs to be modified.