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PROPOSED PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT
Request: Requesting authorization for the Forest Preserves of Cook County (the “Forest Preserves”) to enter into a Partnership Agreement with Friends of the Forest Preserves, Chicago, Illinois.
Reason: Friends of the Forest Preserves (“Friends”) has obtained a $200,000.00 grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation - Sustain Our Great Lakes program to be used to field a five (5) member Calumet Conservation Corps program. An additional $100,000.00 has been contributed towards the program through a philanthropic donation managed by Friends. The program will engage a Crew Manager, an Assistant Crew Manager, and three (3) adult participants in hands-on ecological restoration activities centered on invasive species control and restoration of native plants in the Calumet region. Participants receive training in herbicide application, prescribed fire, stewardship, and chainsaw operation, in addition to experience leading various community engagement and volunteer workday events promoting forest preserve awareness.
The Calumet Conservation Corps program provides advanced conservation and leadership skills training for participants from diverse communities encompassing a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds, ages and ethnicities.
This program advances the goals of the Forest Preserves’ Next Century Conservation Plan.
Contract period: 11/17/2020 - 12/31/2022
Fiscal Impact: Not to exceed $75,000.00 per year, or $150,000.00 over the term of the agreement.
Account(s): Professional Services 51058.520830, 51051.520830, 51028.520830 and all future Professional Services; Special or Co-op Programs 51058.521313, 51051.521313, 51028.521313 and all future Special or Co-op Programs; Grant and Mitigation 51010.521444
Concurrences:
The Chief Financial Officer has approved this item. Final agreement is subject to legal review and approval.
District(s): 4, 5, 6
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