19 Capitalize on the Potential for Green Jobs Green infrastructure maintenance lends itself well to workforce training, because the work typically does not require advanced training or education beyond high school. Green infrastructure maintenance jobs can be filled with young, seasonal workers through a summer hiring program for teens and college students. Park and stormwater agencies can partner with workforce development agencies to provide access to operation and maintenance jobs with long-term career potential for disadvantaged community members. In addition to maintenance, there is long-term, career-oriented green job potential because landscaping, landscape design, engineering, and construction-related skills can be taught and learned through the construction of green infrastructure in parks. Developing a green jobs workforce can have a positive impact on the environment and local communities. As the use of green infrastructure increases, so does the demand for a skilled green workforce. When parks managers implement green infrastructure in park areas, employment opportunities arise for individuals to install and maintain features. Green jobs can range from entry-level (e.g., landscape maintenance) to highly skilled positions (e.g., installation of pervious concrete and green roofs); plus, programs exist to provide training so workers can ensure proper functionality of green infrastructure elements. Many programs target the underemployed urban workforce to provide job skills and instill a sense of community ownership. Programs can offer classroombased learning, hands-on training, and certifications, as well as assist in job placement. For instance, State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF), and its partners have
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