American Conservation Experience: Lake Tahoe Trail Crew Volunteer (short- term)
Position Description: American Conservation Experience, a Non-Profit Conservation Corps based in Santa Cruz, CA, is currently hiring energetic, ambitious young adults to participate in a 6-10 week volunteer program learning outdoor conservation skills in Lake Tahoe CA/NV. Volunteers will serve with ACE at various locations around Lake Tahoe learning trail building and maintenance skills under the supervision of professional ACE Crew Leaders. This is a volunteer position providing free camping near the town of South Lake Tahoe at a developed campground (with showers) that is just minutes from popular beaches, shops, and cafes. Food is provided on project days. This is a valuable opportunity to work alongside other conservation-minded volunteers in a stunning location. Start dates available throughout summer. A 6 week minimum is required. Potential exists to continue serving with other ACE crews beyond the 6-10 week term. Volunteer Position Major Duties and Expectations: Trail volunteers will support ACE by assisting in the construction and maintenance of hiking trails. Typical duties include: • Assisting Park staff with the construction of a variety of trail structures and performing routine trail maintenance. • Completing work tasks as instructed by ACE staff, demonstrating proper work procedures and methods while working in the field with or near other volunteer groups. • Following strict guidelines in making safety a priority, including the responsible use of personal protective gear and insuring that all tools, equipment, vehicles and other co-workers are working safely in all conditions. • Following instructions from all ACE and USFS staff and understanding and respecting all wilderness regulations and policies. • Working with a professional demeanor as a part of a team. Good public communication skills are a must. • Typical work schedule is 4 days on and 3 days off. Volunteers are free to do as they wish and go where they want on their off days. They are welcome to stay at ACE’s campsite and enjoy nearby recreational opportunities as well. Location: The crystal clear turquoise waters of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains, forests, and wilderness areas of the Lake Tahoe Basin draw outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. Known for the clarity of water and for the dramatic backdrop of a panorama of mountains, Lake Tahoe is the second deepest Lake in the United States and the 10th deepest in the world. The Lake Tahoe Basin, divided between California and Nevada, also represents one of the most fragile ecosystems in North America, as soil erosion, algae growth, and invasive plants/animals threaten the unique high elevation alpine lake. Tahoe has long sought a balance between embracing extensive recreational use and preserving the Basin’s delicate ecosystem. ACE crews will be reconstructing hiking trails to encourage recreation in a sustainable manner that does not contribute to soil erosion and does not represent a threat to lake clarity. Volunteers will spend 6-12 weeks working and camping in one of the world’s most scenic locations, with opportunities to explore surrounding wilderness areas in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, spend time paddling the lake, or delve into the festivities common to the resort town of South Lake Tahoe. Working Conditions: Work is labor intensive and strenuous, performed outdoors in steep and hilly terrain and at elevations as high as 9,000 feet. Volunteers should anticipate adverse conditions including rain, wind, and even late summer snows, interspersed among weeks of sunshine. Crews may hike several miles a day at high elevation, on steep terrain, so physical fitness is an absolute requirement. Qualifications: • Anyone physically fit, between the ages of 18 – 35, capable of hard work, with a positive attitude may apply. People looking to advance their careers in the natural resources field are strongly encouraged to apply. • Desire and ability to work outdoors, at times in inclement weather and terrain. Willingness to perform strenuous physical activity such as frequent bending and lifting and carrying heavy weights. • Drug users, including recreational smokers of marijuana, should not consider applying, as ACE reserves the right to require drug testing and generally abhors the presence of drug users in our program. • ACE campgrounds and worksites are drug and alcohol-free. • Only US citizens and green card holders are eligible to apply. • Personal medical insurance is required of all volunteers for the duration of their time with ACE. • Volunteers are responsible for transportation to and from Lake Tahoe on their start and end dates. ACE provides transportation during projects. Benefits: • Developed camping located within a few minute’s walk from the Lake. • Food while on project • Opportunity to gain a working for knowledge of trail construction and maintenance. • Experience working with a Federal agency as well as with a Non- Profit Organization. • Opportunity to live in and enjoy the scenery, wildlife and cultural resources of this spectacular area. • Opportunities to work with other volunteers from diverse backgrounds. • Opportunity to become a steward of America’s public lands. • Opportunity to meet other men and women that share a common interest in preserving and protecting our natural lands. To Apply: Please email a letter describing why you want to volunteer with ACE – include a bit about yourself, your interests and background to i...@usaconservation.org with “Lake Tahoe Trail Crew Volunteer - ECOLOG referred” in the subject heading of your email. A resume is helpful, but not required. Upcoming Start Dates: June 26, July 10, July 24, August 7, August 21 Positions Available Immediately Please note these positions are for summer only and differ from ACE’s regular volunteer program.
