New Director Chosen for Wyoming Conservation Corps in UW’s Haub School

The University of Wyoming’s Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources has selected Amanda Harper as the new program director of the Wyoming Conservation Corps (WCC).

Harper has over a decade of experience in outdoor leadership and a strong commitment to mentoring the next generation of natural resource leaders. She is a two-time AmeriCorps alumna, having served as a crew leader with the WCC and in a year-long AmeriCorps VISTA position with a nature association in Colorado.

“Amanda Harper brings a real passion for making a difference in the lives of people and on our wild and working lands,” says Haub School Dean John Koprowski. “Her past experience with WCC and her recent role advising students provide a wonderfully rich foundation for her leadership. The mission of WCC represents the best of UW’s commitment to Wyoming, and the partnership with ServeWyoming is exemplary. We look forward to the WCC expanding its impact under her direction.”

Founded in 2006, WCC builds upon the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930s and the Youth Conservation Corps of the 1970s by advancing lasting conservation projects, fostering public service and providing hands-on opportunities for skill development. Through a long-standing partnership with ServeWyoming, WCC participants serve as AmeriCorps members and earn a living stipend and Segal Education Award while completing stewardship projects across Wyoming.

From trail building to habitat restoration, crews take on a diverse range of projects. Last season’s work included constructing bog bridges, performing tree work and corridor clearing, and conducting comprehensive trail maintenance -- such as rock work, retaining walls, grade reversals, drainage improvements and tread restoration. AmeriCorps crew members also built beaver dam analogs and wildlife guzzlers, installed wildlife-friendly fencing, and enhanced public spaces with landscaping and flower bed features.

“I’m honored to return to WCC and contribute to conservation work across the state,” Harper says. “I’m really excited to welcome our next cohort of AmeriCorps crew leaders and start training for the next field season.”

The WCC is made possible through partnerships with state and federal agencies, Wyoming businesses and nonprofit organizations. The program is seeking new collaborations for the upcoming season. To learn more or get involved, email wcc@uwyo.edu.