Youth Volunteers for Conservation (YV4C) Seed Collecting

Did you know that tallgrass prairie and oak savannas are two of the most endangered and critically imperiled ecosystems on the planet? 

Every fall, Dane County Parks volunteers power a massive county-wide effort to harvest native seeds. These seeds are vital for restoring hundreds of acres of local prairie and savanna habitats. 

No experience is needed! You will learn basic native plant identification from experts and actively participate in a major regional restoration project. Come connect with nature learn a new skill, and help protect Wisconsin's beautiful landscapes. 

About Youth Volunteers for Conservation
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.

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How to Sign up:

1. Step One: Create an Account in MyImpact if you don't have one (one time process)
   • Account application and waiver for 18+ click here. 
   • Account application and waiver for those under 18 click here (requires parent signature)
      
2. Step 2: Complete all waivers before signing up! These are all locate at the bottom of the page under “my profile” – find each section below and complete.
   • DCP/LFHC Transportation Permission - must click “I agree to the above statement”
   • DCP/LFHC Background Check(must be renewed yearly) - must click “I agree to the above statement”
   • YV4C Behavior Agreement – sign and submit the agreement
      
3. Step 3: Sign up for events! After you've created an account and filled out all necessary waivers, you can sign up for a shift here

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What to Know:

• In case of cancellation, a notification will be made via email and/or phone to participants who have signed up.
• No experience is needed. All tools and training provided.

What to Wear & Bring:

• Please bring clothing appropriate for the weather
• Long pants and closed-toed shoes are required
• Please bring a 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.