* 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.*
Calling all paddlers! Come be a part of the Natural Resource Steward program and help protect the scenic Whitney Wilderness in the Adirondack Park while gaining valuable natural resource management experience!
The Student Conservation Association, in collaboration with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, seeks to place an intern within a popular and ecologically sensitive parts of the Adirondack Mountains in the Whitney Wilderness for a 16-week term of service. The interns will work alongside personnel from the NYSDEC on projects that help preserve and protect this unique natural resource.
What your day-to-day will look like: You’ll be canoeing to inspect and maintain scattered campsites and talking with visitors about Leave-no-Trace principals and proper camping practices. At times interaction with visitors will occur at parking areas. Most of the time will be spent working alone.
This position requires the willingness and ability to travel by canoe and by foot and work alone in remote, rugged terrain and during inclement weather conditions. The campsites are located on lakes that are subject to conditions that can quickly result in white-cap waves forming. Strong canoe skills are essential.
You will be required to work weekends. Most days will be spent in the field. On most days you would return to the headquarters area in the evening. Over the summer you may need to camp alone in the backcountry for several nights. The ability to use a map and compass (or GPS unit) is important. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential. You may be required to drive your personal vehicle on a rough, dirt road to reach one of the canoe launches.
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 own camping gear – backpack, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, cook stove, water filter, rain gear, orienteering-style compass, etc
- Must be physically capable of performing field work common to the assigned work area over rough terrain and during inclement weather
Member Duties and Responsibilities:
- Perform impacted site restoration
- Perform routine maintenance on campsites, trails, and other facilities using hand tools (e.g. axe, bow saw, loppers, etc.) including the removal of garbage
- Provide information and education to visitors relating to the proper use and protection of the natural resource
- Promote Leave-No-Trace practices
- Provide assistance and advice to users regarding trails and campsites
- Inspect trails and campsites to determine condition and maintenance requirements
- 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
- Provide radio communication for emergency operations
- Maintain records, prepare and submit reports relating to daily activities, public use, maintenance needs, and special reports as needed
- Some college level education in Forestry, Biology, Earth Science, Outdoor Education, trail work, Conservation, Geography or related field preferred
Benefits:
$160/week living allowance
$570/month housing allowance if housing is not provided
$80 reimbursement for work pants
$1,718 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.
If you have any questions or would like more information about opportunities with the Natural Resource Stewards, do not hesitate to contact Victoria Yargeau at [email protected] or call 571-895-1742 between the hours of 9 AM – 5 PM (EST).
For SCA’s COVID guidance, please refer to www.thesca.org/covid
Position ID: PO-00734906
Expected Dates: May 22, 2023 - September 10, 2023
Location:
901A Sabattis Rd
Long Lake, NY 12847
US
Training Provided: • 4-Day SCA orientation • Trail tool safety • DEC / Radio Rules and Regulations • First Aid • Anti-Harassment Training • Driver Safety Training
Educational/Recreational Opportunities: This position is in the heart of the Adirondack Park, which is a prime destination for a wide range of recreational experiences. Hiking, biking, camping, canoeing, rock climbing, wildlife watching are a few of activities that the area provides.
Handicap Accessible?: No
Main Area of Focus: Backcountry/Trail work
Further Details
AmeriCorps Eligible: Eligible
Driving Logistics: Required
May be required to use personal vehicle for job duties. A vehicle is required to reach groceries and other amenities.
Housing or Stipend Provided?
C.Partner will pay the SCA to provide housing allowance for the member.
Indoor/Outdoor: Outside
US Citizenship: Yes