| 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. Due to Covid-19, events and trainings are subject to change in response to an increase in the number of cases in the Hudson Valley region. Such changes include, but are not limited to: trainings being held remotely, requesting symptomatic members to stay home from events, and asking members to test prior to Corps gatherings. SCA Hudson Valley AmeriCorps partners with State and non-profit agencies to address the conservation needs of the Hudson River Watershed region. Corps members are placed at individual host sites, where service activities range from providing environmental education to underserved youth, to restoring streambanks along the Hudson River, and beyond. Members join together regularly for trainings, service projects, or other events. |
Purpose of the Program:
Aid in management and outreach for the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly in the Saratoga-Capital Region of NYS Parks. Primary duty is as a site steward, leading on-the-ground conservation and outreach at Saratoga Spa State Park. Secondary duty is to work directly with their supervisor to assist with surveys and restoration work two Karner sites at Moreau Lake State Park as needed.
Community Needs that the Program Serves:
The extremely tenuous nature of the Karner blue population (in general but particularly at Saratoga Spa State Park) along with the unique local conditions combine to create a site that warrants very close attention. The partnership with AmeriCorps members helps provide the on-site presence needed to allow for a greater level of management for a species in desperate need, including other rare species like frosted elfin butterflies. And with large scale restoration getting underway at Moreau, assisting conservation there will help NYS Parks establish a viable metapopulation that is key to securing the long-term viability of Karner blues in New York.
Through habitat restoration and education programming, AmeriCorps members will be directly addressing both the Environmental Stewardship and Education Focus Areas of the Serve America Act.
Values and Standards of the Program:
SCA’s mission is to build the next generation of conservation leaders and inspire lifelong stewardship of the environment and communities by engaging young people in hands-on service to the land.
AmeriCorps Member Duties and Responsibilities:
At Saratoga Spa State Park: monitor populations of Karner blues, frosted elfins, and other rare species: monitor/manage habitat and host plant quality; assist with habitat restoration projects; provide outreach to area visitors; and improve compliance with protective measures. At Moreau Lake State Park: under direct supervision of the Karner Blue Butterfly Conservation Supervisor, monitor/manage habitat and assist with restoration projects.
How the AmeriCorps Member’s Role Aligns with the Organization:
This position furthers NYS Parks’ mission to provide safe and enjoyable recreational and interpretive opportunities for all New York State residents and visitors and to be responsible stewards of our valuable natural, historic and cultural resources.
Performance Goals for the AmeriCorps Member:
Goal 1: Complete and document monitoring for spring and summer butterfly broods
Goal 2: Complete spring and summer habitat monitoring in all management areas
Goal 3: Assist with habitat restoration/improvement projects, including invasive species control and native plant restoration
Goal 4: Provide positive interpretive interactions with the public, including working with Park and patrons to improve compliance with area regulations. ompliance with area regulations.
Candidate Qualifications:
Ability to pass a background check.
At least two years of college experience in a relevant field
Valid driver license of 3+ years with a clean driving record
Must be able to work outside, often in hot, sunny conditions
Skills:
Preferred = GIS, GPS, Field survey experience with vegetation and insect monitoring.
Knowledge:
Preferred = Entomology, Botany, Natural Resource Management
Training:
Preferred = Public speaking, education/outreach
Benefits:
Amount of the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award being offered for successful completion of the member’s term of service: $6,895
Amount of living allowance member will receive:
$350/week living allowance
$1,000/month housing allowance upstate
$1,100/month housing allowance in NYC
Healthcare coverage (if applicable):
Eligible for free health insurance
Childcare coverage (if applicable):
Eligible for childcare assistance through AmeriCorps
Student loan forbearance and interest payments, (if the member qualifies): Eligible for Federal Student Loan forbearance and interest payment deferment through AmeriCorps for qualifying student loans.
Training Opportunities:
All Hudson Valley Corps members receive Wilderness First Aid, CPR, Environmental Leadership Institute, Hudson River Citizen Science curricula, Trail Skills, Project WILD curricula, and professional development. Optional trainings include Leave No Trace, Mental Health First Aid, and other opportunities that arise.
Position ID: PO-00736166
Expected Dates: January 22, 2024 - November 18, 2024
Location:
Saratoga Spa State Park
19 Roosevelt Drive
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
US
Handicap Accessible?: No
Main Area of Focus: Wildlife Mgmt
Further Details
AmeriCorps Eligible: Eligible
Driving Logistics: Required
A personal vehicle is required to access amenities such as grocery stores, libraries, etc. as well as travel to Hudson Valley Corps trainings and events.
Housing or Stipend Provided?
D. No housing is available
Housing stipend will be provided to member
Indoor/Outdoor: Combination
US Citizenship: Yes