Greenwich teens are soaking up the summer sun and helping the environment as part of a popular youth program now in its 45th year.

The Greenwich Youth Conservation Program, open to 14- and 15-year-olds, is an opportunity to work in the great outdoors.

Lucas Fawcett and Will Hadley were at work at Tod’s Point Tuesday. Their jobs include maintaining town properties, mulching, planting trees and much more.

"Since I was two, I always enjoyed doing yard work,” says Fawcett.

Thousands have taken part in the program since it launched in 1977.

"This age 14 and 15, a little too old for camp, too young to get a summer job,” says administrator Christina Nappi. “This is really something we feel is important for the teens to be involved with and give them something that's purposeful for them to do in the summer."

The program helps the young teens learn the responsibilities of a real job, while also making new friends.

And for people like Fawcett and Hadley, some early work toward their dreams of becoming an arborist or landscaper.

"I've been very happy when I'm outside, so yeah,” says Fawcett.

"The fresh air makes me better and happier,” added Hadley.