LOCATION: Bradford County Conservation District Stoll Natural Resource Center 200 Lake Road, Suite E Towanda, PA 18848
WAGE RATE: $15/hr; 40 hr/wk
APPLICATION DEADLINE: March 31, 2024
DESCRIPTION:
Riparian buffer stewards support the establishment of young forests, such as riparian forest buffers, throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed in Bradford County. Stewards travel throughout a given area to monitor reforestation, perform and coordinate management activities, and write reports. Riparian and young forest restoration is a priority for water and habitat quality within the Chesapeake Bay.
West Nile Virus (WNV) program support will also be required with this position. The WNV intern will be responsible for assisting the Coordinator with mosquito population surveillance in order to help protect the public from the threat of mosquito borne diseases. This includes using a variety of trap and collection methods, assisting with mosquito population control, data entry, and preparing samples to be shipped to the lab. Additionally, there may be possibilities to work with tick collections.
Stream and agriculture team support may also be required. Stewards will work closely with the District Forester and the WNV Coordinator. This is a great opportunity to become involved in the work of County Conservation Districts and gain working knowledge of Chesapeake Bay watershed restoration.
Tasks will include:
Perform tasks associated with riparian and young forest establishment, including data collection, monitoring, development of management activities and oversight of management. This will include species identification, in field measurements, and report writing.
Perform riparian buffer implementation, including the planning, design, installation, and maintenance of streamside buffers. Buffer maintenance includes weeding tree tubes, replacing protective materials, weed whacking, mowing, and management oversight.
Provide direct, one-on-one assistance to landowners on buffer implementation and maintenance.
Work with other stewards throughout the watershed performing similar tasks.
Set and empty mosquito traps.
Collect mosquito and tick samples and perform data collection and recording.
QUALIFICATIONS: Current college student or recent graduate in Natural Resources related studies, i.e. environmental geology, environmental geography, fisheries science, etc.; coursework of watershed management, geoscience, fisheries management, or other related courses preferred. Field experience, ability to read paper maps, some knowledge of geographic information system (GIS), ability to perform physical labor (access stream sites, walk long distances in uneven terrain, perform tasks in inclement weather, carry equipment up to 30lbs., etc.), enjoy working with people, work independently, self-motivated and have a flexible schedule (potential for some evenings and weekends) also preferred. Must have valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle as some work may take place in Tioga County, PA and in various counties in NY within the Susquehanna River Watershed. Mileage reimbursement for travel will be provided.
Interested individuals should submit resumes by March 31, 2024 to the Bradford County Human Resources Office; 301 Main St; Towanda, PA 18848. If you have questions regarding the position, please contact Joe Quatrini at 570-485-3138 or [email protected].