Bats are an important component of North American ecology and play an essential role in the energy dynamics of lava tube cave environments. Bats are one of the most important wildlife we manage at El Malpais National Monument in northwest New Mexico. Conservation efforts are underway to understand their population dynamics, roost sites, and impacts on them from monument visitors, environmental changes, and white-nose syndrome (WNS). WNS, a fungal disease spreading westward and decimating many bat populations, is expected to arrive in New Mexico within the next few years. This makes the collection of pre-disease baseline data of bats in the monument essential for natural resource management decisions. The primary role for the intern will be assisting our staff in conducting bat counts in over 200 of our lava tube caves, look for indications of WNS, detect signs of disturbance using FLIR camera and acoustical monitoring devices, and collect cave microclimate data. This basic information is critical for managing these unique and important animals. Interns may also also assist with mapping caves, terrestrial Lidar, photogrammetry, and condition assessments of caves.
Compensation amounts:
- $1,100 – one time RT travel allowance
- $400 – weekly living allowance
- $3,447- AmeriCorps Education Award
- Housing included
*For SCA's COVID-19 guidance, please refer to www.thesca.org/covid
Position ID: PO-00735604
Expected Dates: September 25, 2023 - March 31, 2024
Location:
123 E. Roosevelt Ave
Grants, NM 87020
US
Training Provided: Interns will be trained in GIS, caving, backcountry and wilderness ethics, and bat biology.
Educational/Recreational Opportunities: New Mexico has a large number of areas that are famous for their cultural and natural resources. There are many areas in New Mexico and Arizona that provide opportunities for cave exploration and backpacking. Ski resorts in the Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and
Handicap Accessible?: Yes
Main Area of Focus: Natural Resources Mgmt
Further Details
AmeriCorps Eligible: Eligible
Driving Logistics: Required
Housing is outside of the city limits. It is outside of normal walking distance to get to a a grocery store and headquarters. Public transportation is not available.
Housing or Stipend Provided?
A. Partner will provide suitable housing for the member
The monument leases a 3br/2ba house in San Rafael for use by interns. It's a modern, well-kept house with basic furnishings - beds, dressers, and kitchen pots/pans/utensils. Individual bedrooms will not be shared, but the household will be, and possibly with different genders. Park Service staff will check-in/check-out all tenants and enforces good housing cleanliness with regular inspections. Internet Services available only through cell service "hot spots." Internet available at the office.
Indoor/Outdoor: Outside
US Citizenship: Yes