Internship-Natural Resource Steward-Old Forge

About us:

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults. Program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, and community green spaces across the country.

Program Dates: July 22 - positions are rolling-based, starting as early as possible but with flexibility on the start date.

Program Description:

Calling all hikers! Come help protect the scenic Adirondack Park while gaining valuable conservation skills by becoming a Natural Resource Steward!

* 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.*

The Student Conservation Association, in collaboration with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, seeks to place an intern in Old Forge, NY, located in the Central-Western Adirondack mountains. This intern will work for a duration of 16 weeks alongside personnel from the NYSDEC on projects that help preserve and protect this unique natural resource. The intern will receive a weekly living stipend and will be eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education award at the completion of their service.

The intern will gain valuable resource management skills 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.

Objective/Targets:

• Encourage responsible recreational use by the public

• Improve recreational infrastructure such as trails and designated campsites

• Support recreational impact monitoring efforts

• Candidate to gain experience in public land management

Member Duties and Responsibilities:

• Educating the public on the proper use of public lands, and providing information on trail conditions and Rules and Regulations

• Educating the public regarding current topics that could influence fragile ecosystems

• Notifying the Forest Ranger and Forester with respect to potential problems such as those involving hazardous trail conditions, public use, and emergencies that they encounter

• Performing minor maintenance (such as removing blowdown, installing, or replacing trail markers and signs, cleaning drainage devices, fencing;) and work with other staff as requested

• Monitoring human visitation patterns, ecosystem condition

• Performing first aid and CPR in emergencies

• Providing support for existing volunteer networks

Member Benefits:

Member Qualifications:

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

Required Skills:

• Physically fit to hike/work in rugged terrain in remote areas

• Willingness and ability to work alone and independently

• Willingness to work in inclement weather conditions

• Ability to properly read and use a map and compass

• Strong backpacking and general outdoor skills are essential

• Willingness to learn

• Self-starter/independent worker

• Critical thinker

• Solid people skills

• Interest in the outdoors

Training Opportunities:

• 4-Day SCA orientation

• Trail tool safety

• DEC / Radio Rules and Regulations

• First Aid

• Anti-Harassment Training

• Driver Safety Training

Professional Development Opportunities:

A professional development series is hosted by the New York State SCA Program Coordinators over one month. Dates TBD but topics include:

• Resume Workshop

• Job Board Navigation

• How to Interview

• Intro to GIS/GPS

Depending on your site and workload, you may not be able to attend the live events, but recordings and opportunities for discussion will be made available to you.