Cape Conservation Corps (CCC): A Decade of Dedication to Conservation
Cape Conservation Corps (CCC) began its journey in April 2015 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, marking 10 years of impactful environmental stewardship! Initially formed under the name Friends of Lake Claire (FOLC), the group focused on addressing invasive species like Phragmites threatening Lake Claire. Through grants and a vegetation management plan (VMP), volunteers worked tirelessly to restore the lake’s natural habitat, even utilizing Eco Goats to clear invasive plants along Lake Claire Beach.
Serene Ravine: A Haven for Native Biodiversity
As CCC officially formed, attention shifted to the area now known as Serene Ravine, once overrun by invasive plants like ivy and vines. Volunteers cleared the ravine and tackled noxious species such as Garlic Mustard and Bushkiller. Golden Ragwort (Packera aurea) was introduced to outcompete Garlic Mustard, while ongoing efforts to manage Bushkiller continue. The ravine has since been transformed, with paths, benches, a lending library, and an abundance of native plants, grasses, and ferns creating a serene natural retreat.
Little Magothy Beach Park: From Invasion to Restoration
The next focus was Little Magothy Beach Park, which faced challenges from invasive species like Burning Bush, English Ivy, and Winter Creeper. Volunteers installed a rain garden to mitigate flooding and methodically removed invasive plants, replacing them with native trees, bushes, and flowering plants. Scouts contributed by building benches and a lending library, enhancing the park’s accessibility and appeal.
Deep Creek Parking Lot: An Ongoing Effort
At the Deep Creek Piers parking lot, CCC began by removing English Ivy from trees and planting native flowering plants and shrubs along the upper area. Future plans include developing a vegetation management plan for restoration closer to the water’s edge.
Additional CCC Initiatives
Beyond habitat restoration, CCC has spearheaded several impactful programs:
- Oyster Nursery Program: In collaboration with the Magothy River Association (MRA), CCC supports an oyster nursery at Little Magothy Piers, distributing cages and oyster bags to over 100 sites along the South Shore of the Magothy River annually.
- Native Plant Fest: Held every fall since 2017, the event sells thousands of native plants at cost to encourage homeowners to cultivate native habitats.
- Educational Speaker Series: CCC hosts free public talks twice a year to educate the community on environmental conservation.
- Habitat Heroes: Launched in 2018, this program recognizes residents who enhance their yards to support local wildlife.
- Erosion and Sediment Control Monitoring: Since 2021, CCC volunteers monitor construction sites in the 21409 zip code for compliance, reporting issues to county inspectors.
- Cape Loves Trees: Established in 2022, this initiative celebrates the Cape’s exceptional trees by mapping and showcasing them.
- Garden Advisor Program: Beginning in 2022, Master Gardeners assist residents in creating eco-friendly yard plans tailored to their specific conditions.
- Environmental Scholarship: In 2024, CCC launched a $1,000 annual scholarship for a Broadneck High School senior pursuing an environmental or related degree, fostering the next generation of environmental stewards.
Join Us in Making a Difference!
Cape Conservation Corps continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of our volunteers and community support. From habitat restoration to community education, we’re committed to preserving and enhancing the natural beauty of Cape St. Claire. Together, we can create a healthier, more sustainable future!