South Florida Land Conservation Steward Intern
Expected Dates
August 16, 2017 to August 12, 2018
Site
The Nature Conservancy Blowing Rocks Preserve
Position ID
PO-00723788
Based out of The Nature Conservancy’s (TNC) Blowing Rocks Preserve in Hobe Sound, Florida, the South Florida Land Conservation Stewardship Intern will learn to perform a variety of skills relating to natural resource management and land conservation stewardship relating to The Nature Conservancy’s mission “to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends.” Blowing Rocks Preserve is a 73-acre protected sanctuary that is open to the public located on a barrier island on the southeast coast of Florida. Natural features at the Preserve include maritime hammock, coastal strand, beach dune, coastal scrub, mangrove swamp, the Indian River Lagoon shoreline and Atlantic Ocean, Anastasia limestone rock formation outcroppings, and Sabellariid reefs.
The Land Conservation Stewardship Intern will participate in habitat management work at TNC’s Blowing Rocks Preserve, and on other TNC Partner lands, and conduct activities such as invasive species control, native plant propagation and planting, and wildland fire management. Other stewardship responsibilities may include assisting with habitat and species mapping and monitoring, water quality monitoring, sea turtle rescue, data management, and other natural resource management activities. Preserve maintenance duties will include mowing, trimming, and trail maintenance. Preferred skills include basic carpentry, painting, plumbing and mechanical skill to perform light facilities and equipment maintenance. The Land Conservation Stewardship Intern will be expected to participate in some daily Preserve operations, including opening and closing of the preserve, collecting and sorting trash and recycling, and public restroom upkeep. Intern may also have the opportunity to assist with visitor management and public education and outreach responsibilities may include working with volunteers, school, and other groups on a variety of projects such as lagoon and beach cleanups, answering visitor questions, leading guided nature tours, and assisting with educational and interpretive programming at the Preserve. The Intern will receive training for the use of ATV, UTV, truck, tractor, landscaping equipment, and computer programs such as ARCMap/GIS. The Intern will be expected to possess or obtain certifications for First Aid/CPR/AED and Type II Wildland Firefighter if the training is available in the area. Additional objectives may be developed based on the intern’s personal interests and/or skills.
Days of work: Wednesday - Sunday, 8:30am-5 pm
Location Description
Blowing Rocks Preserve, Hobe Sound, FL 33455
Training Provided
First Aid/CPR/AED, Wildland Firefighter, ARCMAP/GIS, plant identification, herbicide application, land stewardship, education and outreach.
Educational/Recreational Opportunities
Introduction to the preserve features and The Nature Conservancy. Volunteer & group supervision. Land conservation stewardship work. Vehicle and equipment usage. Snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and hiking recreational activities.
Handicap Accessible?
Yes
Main Area of Focus
Natural Resources Mgmt
Education, Training & Skills Expected
Biology
some coursework or experience
Ecology & Restoration
some coursework or experience
Resource Management
some coursework or experience