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Program Dates: 06/03/2024 - 11/10/2024

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

Program Description:
The Botany and Stewardship Technician Intern will assist with land stewardship and enhancement  work throughout the Prairie-Forest Border Ecoregion of Central and Southeastern Minnesota. Work will occur on lands owned by The Nature Conservancy, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and MN Department of Natural Resources.

Primary duties will include native prairie seed collection and processing, monitoring vegetation and pollinator species, and GIS data collection. Interns will also participate in various land stewardship tasks such as invasive species control and tree/brush removal, with the potential to participate in prescribed fire if weather conditions allow. The position will entail plant identification, collecting and processing seed from native plants, conducting vegetation transect surveys, data entry and GIS data management, herbicide application, and use/maintenance of equipment such as chainsaws, brush cutters, hand tools, etc.

Some work will include strenuous physical labor and all work will be in an outdoor, all-weather environment. Occasionally, travel on short notice and irregular working hours may be required. Overnight stays at different crew housing facilities around the state may occasionally be required as well. A vehicle will be provided for traveling to various work sites across the landscape. Interns will live and work with a crew, and will work closely with Conservancy staff, partner agency staff, cooperating scientists, and volunteers. 

This position is an ideal opportunity for an aspiring field botanist with a desire to gain experience in a variety of land management practices. A strong interest in developing botany or plant ecology skills is essential, as well as a desire to apply GIS skills in a conservation setting. Self-motivated aspiring field ecologists with minimal experience in wildlife habitat management will also be considered. This is an excellent opportunity for motivated hard-working individuals who are eager to learn new skills and explore the unique beauty and biodiversity of Minnesota’s prairie landscape. 

Minimum Qualifications:
•    Motivation to develop strong plant identification skills.
•    Knowledgeable in the use of GPS, orienteering/map reading, and basic use of GIS for data collection.
•    Ability to learn to operate and maintain various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. ATV, pumps, engines, backpack sprayer, chainsaw, brush-cutter, leaf blower, & two-way radio).
•    Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.
•    Ability to work outdoors in remote rough terrain, variable weather, and under physically demanding circumstances while maintaining a positive and productive work ethic.
•    Ability to follow detailed instructions, and work independently or with minimal supervision.
•    Ability to work and live in a shared crew environment and maintain a positive and cooperative attitude.
•    Valid Driver's license and good driving record.
•    High school diploma and 1 year training in science-related field or related experience in land management.

Member Benefits:

  • $450/week* Living Allowance
  • $1,100* To/From Travel Allowance, paid one with first paycheck
  • $275 reimbursable fire boot allowance (for purchase of fire boots)
  • Free Housing - Shared crewhouse environment
    • Housing will be a shared crew house with 3-4 bedrooms and 1-2 bathrooms.  Full kitchen facilities
  • Health Insurance (if needed)
  • Eligible for AmeriCorps Education Award of $3,447.50, received upon successful completion of position and 1200 hours or more of service

*All allowances subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

Member Qualifications:

  • Driver's license
  • Personal vehicle required

Additional: 

Must be eligible to serve as an AmeriCorps Member. This includes:  

  • Being a citizen, permanent resident, or national of the United States;
  • Being at least 18 years or older;
  • Having a high school diploma or equivalent;
  • Being willing to undergo National Service Criminal History Check, including criminal background, sex offender and FBI checks.