American Conservation Experience: Catalina Island Fence and Ecology Internship
ACE is a 501 (c)(3) Non-Profit Organization. To learn more, please visit www.usaconservation.org. Position Start Date: May 29, 2010 Position Duration: 3 months Project Description: ACE Intern maintains fence on Catalina Island, protecting areas with high rare plant diversity that are recovering from large fire of May 2007. Project Location: Catalina Island is located 30 miles off the coast of Southern California and consists of 42,000 acres. The island is known for clear water, steep, rugged mountains, and an abundance of rare and endemic plant and animal species. 80 percent of the island has been set aside for permanent conservation to be run by the Catalina Island Conservancy, a Non-Profit Organization. Primary Task: Hikes steep fence lines to monitor for fence breaks. Keeps collection of maps updated with current status to plan fence fixing activities. Fixes most smaller breaks when found. Plans field days with volunteers or staff to fix larger holes. Occasionally works with, teaches and leads volunteers to rebuild fences. Occasionally works in other parts of the Conservation Department such as the nursery, wildlife, and invasive plants. Project Schedule: ACE intern will work Monday through Friday each week, with most weekends off to explore the island, camp on remote beaches, or take the ferry to the mainland. Some weekend work will be required when volunteer events are scheduled. Room and Board: Housing is provided in a shared intern dormitory in Avalon, CA. ACE intern may share a room with another intern or staff member from the Catalina Island Conservancy. Housing must stay clean at all times. ACE intern will be provided with a $70/week stipend to cover the cost of food and incidental expenses. Training: The Catalina Conservancy emphasizes public education. As a committed intern on the island, you will receive training in GPS, local flora and fauna, and local ecology, as well as a variety of work skills. Requirements: Interest in and passion for the environment and protection of plants. Driver's license and good knowledge of driving. Experience with four wheel driving a plus. Most days are spent alone in the field, so good, safe hiking ability and fitness is necessary. Fences are 8 feet (2.45m) tall so taller individuals will find the work easier. Interest in living in a small, friendly island community with incredible natural scenery needed. To Apply: Please email resume and cover letter along with three professional references to Joel Baker of American Conservation Experience at j...@usaconservation.org with “Catalina Island Fence and Ecology Internship” in the subject heading. Position to be filled immediately.
