Big Bend National Park Environmental Restoration Team
PO-00735352
Team Dates: 09/4/2023- 10/6/2023
Project Leader Dates: 8/14/2023- 10/13/2023
Pay Information: $600 per week living stipend (40hrs)
Travel Funds: $1100 in travel funds to get to the site provided for the team members.
Project Description:
The Big Bend National Park Environmental Restoration Team, made up of one Project Leader and five Crew Members (ages 18+), will work in Big Bend National Park with the National Park Service (NPS) for the 5 weeks of the program.
As a member of the Big Bend National Park Environmental Restoration team, you will be working on a team of 6 young adults from all over the United States. The crew’s primary focus will be invasive species removal, mainly addressing the pressing issue of invasive grasses, especially buffelgrass, which causes an increased fire risk and habitat degradation in various areas of the park. Herbicide application and mechanical removal of invasive grasses comprise a major part of this position. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to the conservation efforts of Big Bend National Park by participating in a dedicated team while combatting invasive grasses and restoring the park's vital habitats. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in preserving the park's biodiversity and safeguarding it against the threat of wildfires caused by invasive species.
This team will work with NPS staff to mechanically and chemically control invasive species. The targeted invasive species will mostly be aggressive buffelgrass. NPS staff will train this team on species identification and treatment techniques such as herbicide application and mechanical removal along with environmental safety awareness.
Equipment Use:
The refuge will provide all herbicide and application equipment for the chemical treatment of invasive species. Any use of chemicals will require pesticide use training as well as a review of the label and safety data sheet for every chemical used. The use of personal protective equipment will be mandatory for any activity that requires it, especially for herbicide application. Local training is allowed for small equipment such as lawnmowers, weed eaters, ATVs, and UTVs. The Park Service will provide specialized tools such as brush cutters when modified treatment techniques become necessary.
Schedule: This team will work Monday- Friday or 4x10s for 40 hours per week. Please note the schedule is expected to change depending on partner needs, inclement weather days and COVID-19 protocols.
Housing: Housing is provided at Big Bend National Park.
Work Breakdown (Work is %100 outside)
- 50 % Herbicide Application
- 40 % Mechanical Removal
- 10 % Administration
Site Description:
Big Bend National Park is protected by the National Park Service (NPS) and is comprised of 800,000 acres in the Chihuahua Desert along the Rio Grande.
Qualifications:
- Must be available for the FULL program.
- Applicants must be 18+
- Ability to work in remote and challenging outdoor environments for extended periods.
- Outdoor skills; experience working with diverse groups; ability to maintain a safe, productive, and enjoyable work environment.
Position ID: PO-00735352
Expected Dates: September 4, 2023 - October 6, 2023
Training Provided: Herbicide application Plant identification Invasive species management Leadership and Collaboration
Main Area of Focus: Natural Resources Mgmt
Further Details
AmeriCorps Eligible: Not Eligible