Internship-Natural Resource Steward-Zoar - Allegany, NY, United States - Student Conservation Association, Inc

Description

Program Dates:
June 17th - Oct 7th


About us:
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults. Program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, and community green spaces across the country.


Program Description:
Calling all hikers Come protect the scenic Zoar Valley, a hidden gem of Western New York

*This position requires that you become enrolled in AmeriCorps. If you are selected for this program please be sure to accept AmeriCorps during the SCA offer process. No travel allowance will be offered for this position even if it is stated on your confirmation of acceptance.

The Natural Resources Steward will assist the Department of Environmental Conservation in educating and informing visitors of the safe and property use of Zoar Valley Multiple Use and Unique Areas and East Otto State Forest.

This position requires the willingness and ability to navigate by foot and work alone at times in remote, rugged terrain and during inclement weather conditions.

You may be required to work weekends. Most days will be spent in the field. The ability to use a map and compass (or GPS unit) is important. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are important. conditions.


Objective/Targets:
Perform minor trail work (such as removing trail blowdown, installing or replacing trail markers and signs, installing water bars) as directed on a day-to-day basis

At least 3 days per week – walk Assembly Area and educate the public on the proper use of public lands, provide information on trail conditions and Rules and Regulations

Notify Department staff of issues such as hazardous trail conditions, public use levels, and emergencies as they arise

Administer Assembly Area facilities – permits, bathrooms, outreach. Visit Assembly Area at least 3 days per week

Stillwater Reservoir:
Coordinate outreach with Assistant Forest Ranger, and complete minor facility maintenance tasks as assigned


Member Duties and Responsibilities:
Provide information and education to visitors relating to the proper use and protection of the natural resources

Promote Leave-No-Trace practices

Inspect trails and campsites to determine condition and maintenance requirements

Perform routine maintenance on trails and campsites using hand tools (e.g., axe, bow saw, loppers, etc.) including the removal of garbage

Inspect signage, replace as needed on trails, parking areas, trail heads and property boundaries.

Assist with other SCA and volunteer trail maintenance projects

Under the direction of a Forest Ranger, assist in back country emergencies, including search, rescue, injuries, and evacuations

Prepare and submit reports relating to daily activities, public use, maintenance needs, and special reports as needed


Objective/Targets:
Campsites, trail heads and parking areas inspected

Public Education

Resource Protection


Member Benefits:
$200/week living allowance
$570/month housing allowance if housing is not provided
$80 reimbursement for work pants
$1,824 AmeriCorps Education Award upon successful completion of your term of service

Eligibility for Federal Student Loan forbearance and interest payment deferment through AmeriCorps for qualifying student loans.

*All Allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.


Member Qualifications:

Requirements to Serve:
Must be 18 years of age or older

Must have a valid driver's license

Must have a personal vehicle

Must be a Citizen, National or Lawful Permanent Residing Alien of the US

Must have ankle high hiking boots with lug sole and rain gear, orienteering-style compass, etc.

Must be physically capable of performing field work common to the assigned work area, traveling over rough terrain, and during inclement weather


Necessary Job Skills:
Land navigation/Hiking

GPS/Compass/Orienteering

Construction

Field Research

Trail Maintenance

Interested in environmental conservation, forestry, natural resources management, ecology and/or biology.


Training Opportunities:
4-Day SCA orientation

Trail tool safety

DEC / Radio Rules and Regulations

First Aid

Anti-Harassment Training

Driver Safety Training


Professional Development Opportunities:
A professional development series is hosted by the New York State SCA Program Coordinators over one month.


Dates TBD but topics include:
Resume Workshop

Job Board Navigation

How to Interview

Intro to GIS/GPS

Depending on your site and workload, you may not be able to attend the live events, but recordings and opportunities for discussion will be made available to you.