Invasive Species Program Coordinator

Invasive species are one of the greatest threats to biodiversity today. In the Hudson Highlands, numerous invasive plants and animals have spread rapidly and threaten to reduce populations of native species. In order to slow the spread of invasive species and provide conditions favorable to the sustainability of native populations, the PIPC works throughout the region, on its own and with partners, to manage invasive species. Of particular concern are: Common reed, Black Swallow-wort, Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, and Mile-A-Minute. The SCA member who fill sthis position will primarily manage the Mile-A-Minute Project of the Hudson Valley, a collaborative venture with the goal of slowing the spread of this species through biocontrol, mechanical control and public outreach/education. However, when possible, the Program Manager will also work to manage other invasive species listed above in cases where biocontrol is possible.Mile-A-Minute is an aggressive invasive vine capable of forming dense, smothering stands. As such, it is considered an emerging threat to the ecology and biodiversity of New York. Working with regional partners, the Hudson Valley Mile-A-Minute Program (MAMP) Coordinator will continue the work of previous SCA interns to map, manage and control this invasive plant. Duties of the MAMP Coordinator are five-fold as follows: 1) Coordinate the regional biocontrol effort for Mile-A-Minute; 2) Compile data from reports of Mile-A-Minute sightings throughout the Lower Hudson Valley; 3) Conduct education/trainings/outreach programs for local landowners, partner organizations, etc.; 4) attend meetings and events related to invasive species while serving as a representative of the program; and 5) conduct field work that includes monitoring of biocontrol sites, physical removal of infestations, and mapping/surveying of reported colonies. As management of Mile-A-Minute in New York now includes an expanded biocontrol program, the member will be responsible for coordinating the regional biocontrol effort with partner organizations.Coordinate and compile reports/sightings of MAM - 10%Biocontrol Program Coordination and Outreach - 25%Manage Other Priority Invasive Species - 20%Field Component of Biocontrol - 25%SCA Events and Paperwork - 15%Meetings/Conferences/Events - 5%