Name: Dawson Cox
Age: 16
Crew: Sagawau Environmental Learning Center
What is your experience with conservation?
I have a lot of experience with conservation. My dad has been working with Friends of the Forest Preserve for 11 years. I have been volunteering for almost just as long and have been apart of a prescribed burn. This is also my second summer with the Chicago Conservation Leadership Corps.
What is your favorite part of working with the CCLC?
The work we do in the CCLC program is very rewarding. I enjoy seeing the difference we make after working. Volunteering is just a 1 day event and it’s hard to see the progress made. Through this program, we work for a longer period of time and the progress really stands out.
Why are you passionate about the environment?
I feel at peace in nature and feel the need to protect it.
If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?
France. I enjoy speaking French especially with people who also use the language.
Interviewed by Adam Medel. Adam is the Assistant Crew Leader for the crew at the Sagawau Environmental Learning Center. This is Adam’s first year with the CCLC, and he’s picked up a vast amount of knowledge so far throughout the program from sharing experiences with those around him. After this program ends, Adam will begin to attend Moraine Valley Community College where he will study biology. He is very excited to learn more about plants and animals and ecosystems as a whole, and even more excited to use this knowledge to make a difference.