Natural Resource Steward - Catskill Mountain Park R4

Natural Resource Steward - Catskill Mountain Park R4

Expected Dates

May 22, 2022 to September 10, 2022

Site

NYS Department of Environmental Conservation

Position ID

PO-00732664

Come protect the scenic Catskill Park while gaining valuable conservation skills by becoming a Natural Resource Steward! The Student Conservation Association, in collaboration with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, seeks to place a cohort of 2 interns within high-use and ecologically sensitive parts of the Catskill Park. The interns will work alongside personnel from the NYSDEC on projects that help preserve and protect this unique natural resource. The interns will work alongside personnel from the NYSDEC on projects that help preserve and protect this unique natural resource. Interns receive a $160 weekly stipend, a $570 monthly housing allowance, and are eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award at the completion of their service. Interns gain valuable resource management experience and perform a variety of duties which involve the preservation, protection and enhancement of the natural resources and the safety and well-being of the public using these resources. This includes, but is not limited to: -Performing trail maintenance activities including removing blowdown, installing or replacing trail markers and signs, trail brushing (side and overhead cutting), cleaning drainage devices -Removing/rehabilitating primitive campsites and working with other Forestry and Forest Ranger staff as requested -Performing maintenance activities of Back-Country Lean-Tos (to include staining and other activities) -Performing Hand Tool maintenance to keep tools sharp and in good working condition -Monitoring public use and ecosystem condition, reporting on them according to prescribed protocols -Recording each days activities in a Daily Logbook -Educating the public on the proper use of Forest Preserve and providing information on trail conditions and Rules and Regulations -Educating the public regarding current topics that could inuence fragile ecosystems -Notifying the Forest Ranger and Forester about potential problems such as hazardous trail conditions, public use, and emergencies encountered; -Using a portable radio to communicate with dispatch, Forest Rangers, Foresters and other DEC personnel as needed. -Participating in DEC training as required and provide support for existing volunteer networks on trail maintenance. -Assisting in backcountry emergencies including search and rescue, injuries and evacuation -Maintaining documentation of work performed on a map over the course of the season This position requires the willingness and ability to travel by foot and work alone or in small groups in remote, sometimes rugged terrain and inclement weather conditions. The interns will mostly work Thursday-Sunday. The ability to use a map and compass, a GPS unit and strong backpacking skills are essential. The SCA is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status. Conditions of Employment Candidates will be required to demonstrate full vaccination status for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) with a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized or FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine; OR Receive from SCA a reasonable accommodation granting an exemption from vaccine requirements based on a medical disability or because of a sincerely held religious belief. Additional information and instructions regarding how to request a reasonable accommodation will be provided at the time of selection.

• Location Description

New York State owned Catskill Forest Preserve is comprised of nearly 300,000 acres of land managed as Forever Wild. Recreational opportunities abound with 98 mountain peaks over 3,000 feet high and over 300 miles of trail.

• Training Provided

4 day training/orientation and Leave No Trace Trainer Course

• Educational/Recreational Opportunities

The work location for the position is in the heart of the Catskill Mountains where recreational opportunities abound.

• Handicap Accessible?

No

Main Area of Focus

Backcountry/Trail work

Education, Training & Skills Expected

Backpacking

some experience

Data Entry

some experience

Hand Tools

some experience

Community Engagement

some experience

Trail Maintenance

some experience

Further Details

AmeriCorps Eligible

Eligible

Driving Logistics

Valid Drivers License Needed

Personal Vehicle Required

Needs to be able to drive to site.

Housing or Stipend Provided?

Yes

Certification Requirements

Basic First Aid;CPR

Indoor/Outdoor

Outdoor

US Citizenship

Required