[ECOLOG-L] Research Internship Manager in the Rainforest in Ecuador
Introduction: A few years ago, a few of us—ecology, economics, and business graduates—founded a non-profit organization called Third Millennium Alliance (TMA). We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve in coastal Ecuador. There was a small patch of previously degraded land right in the middle where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture), which also serves as our field headquarters for biological scientific research and forest monitoring. Our reserve (called the Jama-Coaque Reserve) is one of the last remnants of Pacific Equatorial Forest, part of the Tumbes-Choco-Magdalena Biodiversity Hotspot, which is designated as one of the most bio-diverse and endangered ecosystems on earth. Only 2% of native forest remains in coastal Ecuador; we’re trying to preserve the last of it and begin the task of restoring what has already been lost. Job Summary: As Internship Coordinator the chosen candidate will work closely with individuals from diverse backgrounds to facilitate project-based internship experiences in the fields of research, conservation and permaculture. Projects are developed to achieve the research goals of the organization and serve as catalysts for interns as they navigate their academic and professional careers. As Reserve Manager he/she will synthesize and report the information generated from program projects/investigations to the management team and directors to prioritize conservation goals and land management strategies. Primary responsibilities are to manage the internship program and to manage the Research Station as an operating center. He /She will be the responsible for intern recruitment and processing of applications, organizing and leading intern orientation, and serving as an advisor/facilitator/mentor for interns and their related projects, although deferring to the Manager of Permaculture Operations with respect to guidance of food-based intern projects. He/She is responsible for site logistics such as supply runs, monthly accounting, and managing the flow of people in and out of the reserve. Field Management Team: As Reserve Manager/Internship Coordinator you will work closely with the other members of the Field Management Team - Reserve Manager/Intern Coordinator, the Manager of Field Operations, and the Manager of Permaculture Operations. Although each member of this team has his or her own primary responsibilities, there will inevitably be overlap and the need for a lot of team work and collaboration. As such, the three of you should always stagger your off-time, to ensure that at least one of you, although usually two of you, are on-duty at any time. Responsibilities: • Coordinate, lead, and facilitate 8 week tropical field internships in Research, Conservation Permaculture • Provide logistical and technical support to facilitate successful completion of research, conservation, and permaculture based field projects. • Receive, process, and respond to intern applications. Monthly compensation for the entire field management team is entirely funded from intern fees. The operations of this project are dependent on filling up every intern session to capacity. This particular task is incredibly important for the on-going viability of this project. Initiate, build, and maintain long-term relationships with local conservation organizations and communities • Produce weekly and monthly accounting of expenses • Submit monthly reports to the Directors • Develop overall educational quality of the internship program through field activities, assignments, required readings. Please note: The field station and sites are living entities, constantly evolving into yet more functional, comfortable, self-sufficient and sustainable systems. When you are not otherwise occupied with office work and leadership duties (i.e. on-and-off throughout weeks 4-8 of each session) much of your time and energy will be devoted to brainstorming, prioritizing, designing/planning, and realizing additions and changes to the existing infrastructure Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Studies or related field • 4 years of work/life experience following undergraduate studies* • Experience in experimental design, field methods, statistical analysis and scientific writing • 1 year field research or project management experience • Strong leadership skills • Excellent communication and organization skills • Fluent in English and at least highly proficient in Spanish • Physical and mental strength to live in a remote, off-the-grid field station with 5-8 interns for 2 months at a time • Dedicated to sharing research
[ECOLOG-L] Internship Coordinator in coastal Ecuador rainforest - bio research and sustainable food production
A few years ago, a few of us—ecology, economics, and business graduates—founded a non-profit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve in coastal Ecuador. There was a small patch of previously degraded land right in the middle where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture), which also serves as our field headquarters for biological scientific research and forest monitoring. Our reserve (called the Jama-Coaque Reserve) is one of the last remnants of Pacific Equatorial Forest, part of the Tumbes-Choco-Magdalena Biodiversity Hotspot, which is designated as one of the most bio-diverse and endangered ecosystems on earth. Only 2% of native forest remains in coastal Ecuador; we’re trying to preserve the last of it and begin the task of restoring what has already been lost. Job Summary: As Internship Coordinator the chosen candidate will work closely with individuals from diverse backgrounds to facilitate project-based internship experiences in the fields of research, conservation and permaculture. Projects are developed to achieve the research goals of the organization and serve as catalysts for interns as they navigate their academic and professional careers. As Reserve Manager he/she will synthesize and report the information generated from program projects/investigations to the management team and directors to prioritize conservation goals and land management strategies. Primary responsibilities are to manage the internship program and to manage the Research Station as an operating center. He /She will be the responsible for intern recruitment and processing of applications, organizing and leading intern orientation, and serving as an advisor/facilitator/mentor for interns and their related projects, although deferring to the Manager of Permaculture Operations with respect to guidance of food-based intern projects. He/She is responsible for site logistics such as supply runs, monthly accounting, and managing the flow of people in and out of the reserve. Field Management Team: As Reserve Manager/Internship Coordinator you will work closely with the other members of the Field Management Team - Reserve Manager/Intern Coordinator, the Manager of Field Operations, and the Manager of Permaculture Operations. Although each member of this team has his or her own primary responsibilities, there will inevitably be overlap and the need for a lot of team work and collaboration. As such, the three of you should always stagger your off-time, to ensure that at least one of you, although usually two of you, are on-duty at any time. Responsibilities: - Coordinate, lead, and facilitate 8 week tropical field internships in Research, Conservation Permaculture - Provide logistical and technical support to facilitate successful completion of research, conservation, and permaculture based field projects. - Receive, process, and respond to intern applications. Monthly compensation for the entire field management team is entirely funded from intern fees. The operations of this project are dependent on filling up every intern session to capacity. This particular task is incredibly important for the on-going viability of this project. Initiate, build, and maintain long-term relationships with local conservation organizations and communities - Produce weekly and monthly accounting of expenses - Submit monthly reports to the Directors - Develop overall educational quality of the internship program through field activities, assignments, required readings. Please note: The field station and sites are living entities, constantly evolving into yet more functional, comfortable, self-sufficient and sustainable systems. When you are not otherwise occupied with office work and leadership duties (i.e. on-and-off throughout weeks 4-8 of each session) much of your time and energy will be devoted to brainstorming, prioritizing, designing/planning, and realizing additions and changes to the existing infrastructure Qualifications - Bachelor’s degree in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Studies or related field - Experience in experimental design, field methods, statistical analysis and scientific writing -1 year field research or project management experience -Strong leadership skills - Excellent communication and organization skills -Fluent in English and at least highly proficient in Spanish - Physical and mental strength to live in a remote, off-the-grid field station with 5-8 interns for 2 months at a time -Dedicated to sharing research experience and knowledge of global conservation issues in educational settings -Passion to mentor,
[ECOLOG-L] Tropical Conservation, Permaculture Research Internship in the Rainforest of Ecuador - June 8th -August 3rd
Applications for the summer internship session are due Monday, May 13th. We are working towards a sustainable future in the rainforest of Ecuador and we need help! In 2007, a few of us—ecology, economics, and business graduates—founded a non-profit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve (Jama-Coaque Reserve). There was a small patch of previously degraded land right in the middle where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture), which also serves as our field headquarters for biological scientific research and forest monitoring. Project Activities: Interns are encouraged to take on high-impact and dynamic projects; we are a young organization forging our path as we discover it. There is a tremendous amount of work to be done and experience to be gained – for interns and for us. Above all, creativity, innovation, and self-motivation are the fuel of our intern program. In addition to work managing the agroforestry production zone and organic vegetable garden, each intern is assigned a personal project, which is akin to a thesis of sort, but of a much more practical nature. Generally speaking, there are three categories of personal projects: 1) conservation biology research and 2) permaculture/sustainable food production and land management, and 3) appropriate technology. The following is a list of projects we're looking to tackle during the upcoming summer session. Flora Fauna Research: • Camera trap survey of wild felines (ocelot, margay, jaguarundi, puma) • Herpetological inventory of sample plots in an agroforestry/reforestation zone • Ethnobotany* (requires strong Spanish-speaking skills) Food Production • Building a mushroom propagation system on natural logs • Diversifying shade-grown cacao plots with supplemental agroforestry food crops • Design and plant an ornamental garden in and around the agroforestry production zone • Vegetable garden assistant Appropriate Technology • Design and build a solar food dehydrator • Design and build a non-electrical refrigerator • Working with natural materials (mainly, native bamboo) to build home appliances (e.g., cutlery, etc.) Summer Internship Dates: June 8 – August 3 Application Deadline: Monday, May 13th. To see a complete program description, please visit our Internship page at our website at www.tmalliance.org. Here you can download the application form and contact details, as well as other media, such as the intern-maintained blog, and the program FAQ. Jordan Trujillo Internship Coordinator Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.tmalliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Summer Internship in the Rainforest of Ecuador - new program description
For those who tried to apply last week, we apologize for the technical difficulties on our website--some people said that they had trouble downloading the Program Description. That problem has been fixed as of today, April 22. The Program Description should now be download-able on our website. Applications for the summer internship session are due Tuesday, April 28. We are working towards a sustainable future in the rainforest of Ecuador and we need help! In 2007, a few of us—ecology, economics, and business graduates—founded a non-profit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve (Jama-Coaque Reserve). There was a small patch of previously degraded land right in the middle where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture), which also serves as our field headquarters for biological scientific research and forest monitoring. Project Activities: Interns are encouraged to take on high-impact and dynamic projects; we are a young organization forging our path as we discover it. There is a tremendous amount of work to be done and experience to be gained – for interns and for us. Above all, creativity, innovation, and self-motivation are the fuel of our intern program. In addition to work managing the agroforestry production zone and organic vegetable garden, each intern is assigned a personal project, which is akin to a “thesis” of sort, but of a much more practical nature. Generally speaking, there are three categories of personal projects: 1) conservation biology research and 2) permaculture/sustainable food production and land management, and 3) appropriate technology. The following is a list of projects we’re looking to tackle during the upcoming summer session. Flora Fauna Research: • Camera trap survey of wild felines (ocelot, margay, jaguarundi, puma) • Herpetological inventory of sample plots in an agroforestry/reforestation zone • Ethnobotany* (requires strong Spanish-speaking skills) Food Production • Building a mushroom propagation system on natural logs • Diversifying shade-grown cacao plots with supplemental agroforestry food crops • Design and plant an ornamental garden in and around the agroforestry production zone • Vegetable garden assistant Appropriate Technology • Design and build a bicycle-powered blender and grain grinder • Design and build a solar food dehydrator • Design and build a non-electrical refrigerator • Working with natural materials (mainly, native bamboo) to build home appliances (e.g., cutlery, etc.) Summer Internship Dates: June 8 – August 3 Application Deadline: Tuesday, April 17 To see a complete program description, please visit our “Internship” page at our website at www.tmalliance.org. Here you can download the application form and contact details, as well as other media, such as the intern-maintained blog, and the program FAQ. We look forward to working with you! Jordan Trujillo Internship Coordinator Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.tmalliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Conservation, Permaculture Research Internship in the Rainforest of Ecuador - applications due April 22
Applications for the summer internship session are due Tuesday, April 22. We are working towards a sustainable future in the rainforest of Ecuador and we need help! In 2007, a few of us—ecology, economics, and business graduates—founded a non-profit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve (Jama-Coaque Reserve). There was a small patch of previously degraded land right in the middle where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture), which also serves as our field headquarters for biological scientific research and forest monitoring. Project Activities: Interns are encouraged to take on high-impact and dynamic projects; we are a young organization forging our path as we discover it. There is a tremendous amount of work to be done and experience to be gained – for interns and for us. Above all, creativity, innovation, and self-motivation are the fuel of our intern program. In addition to work managing the agroforestry production zone and organic vegetable garden, each intern is assigned a personal project, which is akin to a “thesis” of sort, but of a much more practical nature. Generally speaking, there are three categories of personal projects: 1) conservation biology research and 2) permaculture/sustainable food production and land management, and 3) appropriate technology. The following is a list of projects we’re looking to tackle during the upcoming summer session. Flora Fauna Research: • Camera trap survey of wild felines (ocelot, margay, jaguarundi, puma) • Herpetological inventory of sample plots in an agroforestry/reforestation zone • Ethnobotany* (requires strong Spanish-speaking skills) Food Production • Building a mushroom propagation system on natural logs • Diversifying shade-grown cacao plots with supplemental agroforestry food crops • Design and plant an ornamental garden in and around the agroforestry production zone • Vegetable garden assistant Appropriate Technology • Design and build a bicycle-powered blender and grain grinder • Design and build a solar food dehydrator • Design and build a non-electrical refrigerator • Working with natural materials (mainly, native bamboo) to build home appliances (e.g., cutlery, etc.) Summer Internship Dates: June 8 – August 3 Application Deadline: Tuesday, April 17 To see a complete program description, please visit our “Internship” page at our website at www.tmalliance.org. Here you can download the application form and contact details, as well as other media, such as the intern-maintained blog, and the program FAQ. We look forward to working with you! Jordan Trujillo Internship Coordinator Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.tmalliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] GIS Work-Trade - Live in the Ecuadorian Rainforest for Free
Third Millenium Alliance is working towards a sustainable future in the rainforest of Ecuador and we need help! Our reserve (called the Jama-Coaque Reserve) is one of the last remnants of Pacific Equatorial Forest, part of the Tumbes-Choco-Magdalena Biodiversity Hotspot, which is designated as one of the most bio-diverse and endangered ecosystems on earth. Only 2% of native forest remains in coastal Ecuador, and we are trying to preserve the last of it. We have a work-trade position available for someone experienced in GIS mapping. The candidate will live and work at the Bamboo House Research Station located on the reserve and work closely with the Reserve Manager and the Permaculture Managers. In addition to the management of the reserve itself, the Bamboo House Research Station in the Jama-Coaque Reserve serves two functions: It is a living laboratory for sustainable systems research, where we grow our own food and manage the land according to the principles of permaculture design, with a particular focus on appropriate technology and reforestation. It is a center for biological research. Past studies include Paul S. Hamiltons discovery of new species of frog and Maria Eugenia Gavilaness study of primate migrating patterns, and our doors are always open to graduates and professionals interested in pursuing new research projects Work-Trade This is a work-trade position that will cover room and board at the Bamboo House Research Station in exchange for 30-35 hrs/wk of GIS related work. This position would be ideal for a professional looking for an interesting experience living in the Coastal Ecuadorian Raingforest, a someone looking to build their CV to make them a better candidate for job applications, or a recent graduate with adequate undergraduate training and field experience looking for an opportunity to stand out on graduate school applications. What we need: We currently do not have any GIS maps and are looking for someone to map the reserve, its trails and different plant assemblages and ecosystems and essentially create a foundation for spatial modeling. We would also want this person to integrate data sets from previous research investigations. Ideally the candidate will have Technical Experience in: - Processing spatial data, including input, storage and retrieval; manipulation and analysis - Building geoprocessing models. - Hydrologic basins - Spatial statistics - Scientific writing Personal Attributes: -Independent self-starter who can meet deadlines with little supervision - Detail oriented, organized and reliable - Energetic and dynamic - Punctual and mature Note: It would also greatly help if you already have GIS software, as we currently do not. If interested, please contact for more details. Jordan Trujillo Manager, Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve Email: trujillo.jor...@yahoo.com
[ECOLOG-L] Spring Internship in the Rainforest of Ecuador - Conservation, Permaculture Research
We are working towards a locally appropriate model of sustainable living in the rainforest of Ecuador and we need help! Our goal for ourselves is 100% food self-sufficiency within ten years. For the surrounding communities we seek economically and ecologically sustainable alternatives to logging, hunting, and cattle ranching, which are the major threats to this endangered habitat. Another primary focus is conservation biology research, such as flora and fauna inventories, camera trap surveys of wild felines and other mammals, watershed research, etc. Interns are encouraged to take on high-impact and dynamic projects; we are a young organization forging our path as we discover it. There is a tremendous amount of work to be done and experience to be gained for interns and for us. Above all, creativity and innovation are the bases for our intern program. Our mission, as lofty as it sounds, is to find, prepare, and join forces with the next generation of practitioners and leaders in the field of ecologically sustainable human progress. Upcoming Session: - Spring 2013: March April 2 - May 28th. Applications are due February 10th. Please visit our website for full program description and application documents: http://3malliance.org/internship We look forward to working with you!
[ECOLOG-L] Paid Job in Ecuador: Sustainable Community Development, Eco-Education, and Internship Manager
Summary: Two-year paid position to manage a community center in rural Ecuador and coordinate the intern/volunteer program that is used to staff the center and implement projects aimed at sustainable development opportunities, ecological education, and the broadening of social, artistic, and cultural horizons in the community. The ideal candidate is a versatile and resourceful leader, age 24-32, preferably with some education experience and food-growing experience, fluent in English and highly proficient in Spanish, with a lot of initiative and passion. Background: A few years ago a small group of American and Ecuadorian conservationists founded a nonprofit organization, purchased several hundred acres of rainforest and cloud forest in coastal Ecuador, and established an ecological reserve. In the middle of the reserve we built a sustainable research station, which is affectionately called the Bamboo House. Once we had our feet under us in the reserve, we partnered with a local family to establish a learning center and volunteer house in the nearby hamlet of Camarones. There we pursue sustainable community development and education for children and adults. From these two project sites we are working for a locally appropriate model of sustainable living. Our goal for ourselves is 100% food self-sufficiency within ten years, primarily through the use of agroforestry and permaculture land management techniques. For the surrounding communities we seek livelihoods based in economically and ecologically sustainable alternatives to logging, hunting, and cattle ranching, which are the major threats to this endangered habitat. Our flagship program in the community is the guidance of a local Youth Group as they develop their own small-scale organic farm, as means for local youth to gain skills in leadership, personal initiative, group work dynamics, entrepreneurship, and a strong sense of character, in addition to providing an ecologically-friendly economic alternative. Job Description: For a complete job description, please visit our website at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=527 Here you can download a PDF file of the job description, which also includes application instructions. The ideal start-date is October 15th, although there is some room for flexibility. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and we are eager to fill this position quickly, so if you are interested, please apply as soon as you can. We look forward to hearing from you! Isabel Dávila, Laura Randall, and Jerry Toth Third Milllennium Alliance www.3malliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Community Education and Sustainable Development Internship in Ecuador
A few years ago, a few of usecology, economics, and business graduatesfounded a nonprofit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically-endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve. We first built an innovative research station out of bamboo, then we partnered with a family in the adjacent community of Camarones and built a community learning center by hand with the help of community members. People became curious of our goals to become 100% self-sufficient, to conserve forest, and use resources sustainably. In response, we have developed an afterschool program for local children, a teen program, and various projects in collaboration with the families of Camarones. With our presence established, we grow together in education exploring the environment, various arts (culinary, theater, music, and studio), culture and teaching English. The date range for the Late Summer program is August 1September 29, 2012 and the cost is $1050. Projects for the Late Summer Internship include: Kids Program Environmental Education with emphasis in Sciences and Arts for children from K to 12 (leading activities and updating curriculum) Vocational Training for Young Leaders of Camarones leading vocational activities directly related to nature conservation through arts, sciences and sustainable development Youth Farmers Organic Market - establish a small but commercially viable organic farm, to be managed and operated exclusively by local teenagers. Sustainable Solutions Agroforestry shifting unsustainable economic practices in the community to a more balance sustainable development Arts Program painting the Camarones Historical Mural (the theme is: reaching into the future through the past) Filmmaking and Edition- For this summer we also need an intern with experience or willingness to develop experience with us on film and video editing, with the aim of developing a short video that shows the traditional coffee making process and the development of the Historical Mural for the community of Camarones. As we dont have tech equipment of this magnitude, we will need for you to bring your own equipment. Other Activities for all interns this summer are: o Weekly Film Forum for Children and Youth o Movie and Ludic Nights for Adults o Traditional Music/Acoustic concerts. If you would like to learn more, please visit our Internship page on our website, where you can download a PDF file which includes a detailed program description, at: http://3malliance.org/internship Application instructions are also included in the program description.Were very happy to open this opportunity up to people with the passion and the interest to get involved in an experience like this, and we look forward to working with you in this beautiful land!
[ECOLOG-L] Community Education and Sustainable Development Internship in Ecuador
A few years ago, a few of usecology, economics, and business graduatesfounded a nonprofit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically-endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve. We first built an innovative research station out of bamboo, then we partnered with a family in the adjacent community of Camarones and built a community learning center by hand with the help of community members. People became curious of our goals to become 100% self-sufficient, to conserve forest, and use resources sustainably. In response, we have developed an afterschool program for local children, a teen program, and various projects in collaboration with the families of Camarones. With our presence established, we grow together in education exploring the environment, various arts (culinary, theater, music, and studio), culture and teaching English. The date range for the Late Summer program is August 1September 29, 2012 and the cost is $1050. Projects for the Late Summer Internship include: Kids Program Environmental Education with emphasis in Sciences and Arts for children from K to 12 (leading activities and updating curriculum) Vocational Training for Young Leaders of Camarones leading vocational activities directly related to nature conservation through arts, sciences and sustainable development Youth Farmers Organic Market - establish a small but commercially viable organic farm, to be managed and operated exclusively by local teenagers. Sustainable Solutions Agroforestry shifting unsustainable economic practices in the community to a more balance sustainable development Arts Program painting the Camarones Historical Mural (the theme is: reaching into the future through the past) Filmmaking and Edition- For this summer we also need an intern with experience or willingness to develop experience with us on film and video editing, with the aim of developing a short video that shows the traditional coffee making process and the development of the Historical Mural for the community of Camarones. As we dont have tech equipment of this magnitude, we will need for you to bring your own equipment. Other Activities for all interns this summer are: o Weekly Film Forum for Children and Youth o Movie and Ludic Nights for Adults o Traditional Music/Acoustic concerts. If you would like to learn more, please visit our Internship page on our website, where you can download a PDF file which includes a detailed program description, at: http://3malliance.org/internship How to Apply: Please only apply if you know that 1) you will be available during the program dates, 2) you can afford the program fee, and 3) you are seriously interested in this program. As we spend most of the time in the forest, we do not have time to engage in lengthy back-and-forth email banter. The intern coordinator only goes into town 1-2 days per week, so internet access is limited to as little as 2 hours per week. For this reason, our application procedure has been created to make this process as efficient as possible. This is how it works: Send us an email with short answers to each of the questions listed below. Please try to limit each answer to just a couple of sentences. In most cases we will respond within one week. In some cases it may take up to two weeks. If you havent heard from us within two weeks, please feel free to re-submit your applicationthat kind of enthusiasm shows that youre really interested in this program. We respond to your email by proposing 1-3 primary projects that we think you would be a good fit for. We also attach several info documents that should answer all of your logistical questions, such as travel info, packing list, medical info, where ATMs are relative to the site, etc. Then we ask you two questions. First, we ask you to choose which of the aforementioned primary projects are most interesting to you. Then, we ask you: If given an offer, would you accept this position. And if yes, would you be willing and able to commit to the program (i.e., pay the deposit) within one week of receiving the offer? In short answers, explain which of the projects most appeals to you. Also, let us know if you are prepared to commit to the program or not. We will take 1-2 weeks to review applications and get back to you with a firm answer. If we give you an offer, you will be expected to commit to the program within 1-2 weeks of receiving the offer, depending on how far along the application process is Application Questions: Please limit yourself to just a few sentences per question. What is your background? What stage of life are you in right now? Why do you want to participate in this program? What kind of experience do you have in developing countries? What kind of experience do you have in
[ECOLOG-L] Sustainable Community Development Internship in Ecuador - Late Summer/Fall
A few years ago, a few of usecology, economics, and business graduatesfounded a nonprofit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically-endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve. We first built an innovative research station out of bamboo, then we partnered with a family in the adjacent community of Camraones and built a community learning center by hand with the help of community members. People became curious of our goals to become 100% self-sufficient, to conserve forest, and use resources sustainably. In response, we have developed an afterschool program for local children, a teen program, and various projects in collaboration with the families of Camarones. With our presence established, we grow together in education exploring the environment, various arts (culinary, theater, music, and studio), culture and teaching English. The date range for the Late Summer program is August 1September 29, 2012. The cost is $960, which comes out to about $16/day. Priorities for the Late Summer Internship include: Planning and leading children´s program Developing curriculum for art and environmental education Assisting the teen program garden and activities Organizing community workshops/vocational trainings Teaching English language Developing Organic Market If you would like to learn more, please visit our Internship page on our website, where you can download a PDF file which includes a detailed program description, at: http://3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 How to Apply: Please only apply if you know that 1) you will be available during the program dates, 2) you can afford the program fee, and 3) you are seriously interested in this program. As we spend most of the time in the forest, we do not have time to engage in lengthy back-and-forth email banter. The intern coordinator only goes into town 1-2 days per week, so internet access is limited to as little as 2 hours per week. For this reason, our application procedure has been created to make this process as efficient as possible. This is how it works: Send us an email with short answers to each of the questions listed below. Please try to limit each answer to just a couple of sentences. In most cases we will respond within one week. In some cases it may take up to two weeks. If you havent heard from us within two weeks, please feel free to re-submit your applicationthat kind of enthusiasm shows that youre really interested in this program. We respond to your email by proposing 1-3 primary projects that we think you would be a good fit for. We also attach several info documents that should answer all of your logistical questions, such as travel info, packing list, medical info, where ATMs are relative to the site, etc. Then we ask you two questions. First, we ask you to choose which of the aforementioned primary projects are most interesting to you. Then, we ask you: If given an offer, would you accept this position. And if yes, would you be willing and able to commit to the program (i.e., pay the deposit) within one week of receiving the offer? In short answers, explain which of the projects most appeals to you. Also, let us know if you are prepared to commit to the program or not. We will take 1-2 weeks to review applications and get back to you with a firm answer. If we give you an offer, you will be expected to commit to the program within 1-2 weeks of receiving the offer, depending on how far along the application process is. Application Questions: Please limit yourself to just a few sentences per question. What is your background? What stage of life are you in right now? Why do you want to participate in this program? What kind of experience do you have in developing countries? What kind of experience do you have in tropical forests (or non-tropical forests)? How would you describe your interpersonal style? How is your Spanish? Which of the projects listed above most interest you? Do you have any dietary restrictions or medical restrictions? Send emails to Laura Randall at la...@3malliance.org with the subject heading COMMUNITY INTERNSHIP PROGRAM and copy Jerry Toth at je...@3malliance.org. Please dont take it personally if we keep our responses short were just doing it to economize on time spent in front of a computer. Laura usually checks email on either Tuesday or Sunday, although there may be exceptions to this. For additional information, you can visit our website at www.3malliance.org, which also includes a 10-minute video about the ecosystem, a 2 minute video made by former interns about their experiences, and a photo gallery. All that said, were very happy to open this opportunity up to people with the passion and the interest to get involved in an experience like this, and we look
[ECOLOG-L] Summer Internship in Ecuador - Tropical Conservation, Permaculture Research
*NOTE: 1 position left A few years ago, a few of us ecology, economics, and business graduates founded a nonprofit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically-endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve. There was a small patch of previously-degraded land right in the middle, where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo, by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture). Our goal is 100% food self-sufficiency within 10 years. So far, were maybe 20% of the way there. Likewise this is a testing ground for appropriate technology, such as off-the-grid renewable energy, water treatment and management, organic pesticide production, etc. We are also in need of various biological research projects and inventories. The date range for the summer program is May 24 July 22. Priorities for the Summer Internship include: Forest mammal inventory with photo trap cameras (on-going project) GIS mapping of the reserve and/or wild cat survey area Organic pesticide research and development (on-going) Low-tech mushroom propagation system Wild mushroom identification and photo inventory Native bamboo propagation through the chusquin method If you would like to learn more, please visit our Internship page on our website, where you can download a PDF file which includes a detailed program description, at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 After reading the PDF file, if you would like to apply, send an email to the address listed in the program description. We hope you work with you! Sincerely, Bryan Criswell, Isabel Dávila, Jerry Toth Directors, Jama-Coaque Reserve Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Summer Internship in Ecuador - Tropical Conservation, Permaculture Research
A few years ago, a few of us ecology, economics, and business graduates founded a nonprofit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically-endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve. There was a small patch of previously-degraded land right in the middle, where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo, by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture). Our goal is 100% food self-sufficiency within 10 years. So far, were maybe 20% of the way there. Likewise this is a testing ground for appropriate technology, such as off-the-grid renewable energy, water treatment and management, organic pesticide production, etc. We are also in need of various biological research projects and inventories. The date range for the summer program is May 24 July 22. Priorities for the Summer Internship include: Forest mammal inventory with photo trap cameras (on-going project) Data collection in preparation for regional camera trap survey of wild cats Organic agriculture/gardening for home vegetable production Organic pesticide research and development (on-going) Low-tech mushroom propagation system on natural logs (to see a demo, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jMreaSglYog) Wild mushroom identification and photo inventory If you would like to learn more, please visit our Internship page on our website, where you can download a PDF file which includes a detailed program description, at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 To get a better idea of what the project is like, you can view a 2-minute filmed by former interns at: http://vimeo.com/39561585 You can also check out our new blog at: https://3malliance.wordpress.com/ But most important is the program description. After reading the PDF file, if you would like to apply, send an email to the address listed in the program description. We hope you work with you! Sincerely, Bryan Criswell, Isabel Dávila, Jerry Toth Directors, Jama-Coaque Reserve Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Tropical Conservation, Permaculture Research Internship in Ecuador
A few years ago, a few of us ecology, economics, and business graduates founded a nonprofit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically-endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve. There was a small patch of previously-degraded land right in the middle, where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo, by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture). Our goal is 100% food self-sufficiency within 10 years. So far, were maybe 20% of the way there. Likewise this is a testing ground for appropriate technology, such as off-the-grid renewable energy, water treatment and management, organic pesticide production, etc. We are also in need of various biological research projects and inventories. Priorities for the Summer Internship include: Forest mammal inventory with photo trap cameras (on-going project) GIS mapping of the reserve Contour mapping of our agroforestry production zone Organic pesticide research and development (on-going) Low-tech mushroom propagation system Wild mushroom identification and photo inventory Misc. appropriate technology projects If you would like to learn more, please visit our Internship page on our website, where you can download a PDF file which includes a detailed program description, at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 After reading the PDF file, if you would like to apply, send an email to the address listed in the program description. We hope you work with you! Sincerely, Bryan Criswell, Isabel Dávila, Jerry Toth Directors, Jama-Coaque Reserve Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Grant writing volunteer opportunity in Quito, Ecuador
Third Millennium Alliance is a US non-profit organization based in Ecuador. Our mission is to preserve the last remnants of Pacific Equatorial Forest in coastal Ecuador and the wide range of endangered and endemic species therein contained. In 2007 we established the Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve, which protects one of the last major remnants of tropical rainforest and cloud forest in coastal Ecuador and is likewise one of the last refuges for endangered wild cats in the region. We are also working to restore habitat through our Micro-Forestation program with local landholders. Another critical element of our work is directly involving local communities in conservation activities, especially children, youth, and young adults, through ecological education, biological research, nature trail guiding, and reforestation activities. We are looking for someone to help write grants and develop new project proposals that are focused on biodiversity conservation and community development. As a young organization, we are seeking a professional individual that has a passion for conservation and wildlife, with a background in marketing and public relations. Experience in the non-profit sector and with grant writing would be ideal. You will be provided with a very comfortable apartment/office in the capital city of Quito, and all the resources and amenities with which to work, but you will be responsible for covering your own living expenses such as food and other personal expenses. Most likely you will be sharing the apartment with another intern. Although the position is on a volunteer basis, a commission may be awarded for successful grant proposals, as a form of compensation. Position overview: Research, write and follow up on proposals and project reports to institutional funders Work with executive director and program staff to ensure that all proposals accurately reflect the mission, policies, budgets and programs Manage scheduling process and ensure timely submission of proposals and reports Conduct research on existing and potential funders There will be an incentive for each granted proposal If you would like to learn more, please visit our Internship page on our website, where you can download a PDF file which includes a detailed program description, at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 After reading the PDF file, if you would like to apply, send an email to the address listed in the program description. We hope you work with you! Sincerely, Bryan Criswell, Isabel Dávila, Jerry Toth Directors, Jama-Coaque Reserve Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Tropical Conservation, Permaculture Research Internship in Ecuador
A few years ago, a few of us ecology, economics, and business graduates founded a nonprofit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically-endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve. There was a small patch of previously-degraded land right in the middle, where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo, by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture). Our goal is 100% food self-sufficiency within 10 years. So far, were maybe 20% of the way there. Likewise this is a testing ground for appropriate technology, such as off-the-grid renewable energy, water treatment and management, organic pesticide production, etc. We are also in need of various biological research projects and inventories. Priorities for the Spring Internship include: Forest mammal inventory with photo trap cameras (on-going project) GIS mapping of the reserve and/or wild cat survey area Organic pesticide research and development (on-going) Entomology (insect) inventory (even if its just a partial/photo inventory) Low-tech mushroom propagation system Wild mushroom identification and photo inventory If you would like to learn more, please visit our Internship page on our website, where you can download a PDF file which includes a detailed program description, at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 After reading the PDF file, if you would like to apply, send an email to the address listed in the program description. We hope you work with you! Sincerely, Bryan Criswell, Isabel Dávila, Jerry Toth Directors, Jama-Coaque Reserve Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Community Development Internship in Ecuador
We are now accepting applications for the Spring session of the Community Education and Sustainable Development Internship, in the Community Learning Center in the small rural community of Camarones, which runs from March 15 through May 13! Join our team in working within the community of Camarones to develop educational, vocational, and social development projects! We are currently running programs including: English language, environmental education, culture and arts, family movie nights, vocational workshops, and social events in the community. We are looking for interns to help run these programs as well as work on community projects which include: organizing a community market event, reforestation project, school garden project, teen program, and women's workshops. If you are interested in learning more about the position, please click on the link below to download the program descriptions of each respective program. http://3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 How to Apply: First, peruse our website (3malliance.org), which includes a 10-minute video and an extensive photo gallery of past interns and the community. Then, if you want to apply for the internship, send an email to Laura Randall at la...@3malliance.org with the following subject heading: Community Education Internship with a formal resume and the answers to the following questions: 1. What stage of life are you at right now? (Finishing university, starting university, working professionally, between jobs?) 2. Why do you want to participate in this internship? 3. What relevant skills or experience do you have, if any? 4. How is your Spanish? 5. When would you like to come? We look forward to hearing from you!
[ECOLOG-L] Tropical Conservation, Permaculture Research Internship in Ecuador
A few years ago, a few of us ecology, economics, and business graduates founded a nonprofit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically-endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve. There was a small patch of previously-degraded land right in the middle, where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo, by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture). Our goal is 100% food self-sufficiency within 10 years. So far, were maybe 20% of the way there. Likewise this is a testing ground for appropriate technology, such as off-the-grid renewable energy, water treatment and management, organic pesticide production, etc. We are also in need of various biological research projects and inventories. Priorities for the Spring Internship include: Forest mammal inventory with photo trap cameras (on-going project) GIS mapping of the reserve Organic pesticide research and development (on-going) Forest succession research Entomology (insect) inventory (even if its just a partial inventory) Mushroom propagation system Implementing of a small-scale aquaculture system If you would like to learn more, please visit our Internship page on our website, where you can download a PDF file which includes a detailed program description, at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 After reading the PDF file, if you would like to apply, send an email to the address listed in the program description. We hope you work with you! Sincerely, Bryan Criswell, Isabel Dávila, Jerry Toth Directors, Jama-Coaque Reserve Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Community Education and Sustainable Development Internship
We are now accepting applications for the Spring session of the Community Education and Sustainable Development Internship, in the Community Learning Center in the small rural community of Camarones, which runs from March 15 through May 13! Join our team in working within the community of Camarones to develop educational, vocational, and social development projects! We are currently running programs including: English language, environmental education, culture and arts, family movie nights, vocational workshops, and social events in the community. We are looking for interns to help run these programs as well as work on community projects which include: organizing a community market event, reforestation project, school garden project, teen program, and women's workshops. If you are interested in learning more about the position, please click on the link below to download the program descriptions of each respective program. http://3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 How to Apply: First, peruse our website (3malliance.org), which includes a 10-minute video and an extensive photo gallery of past interns and the community. Then, if you want to apply for the internship, send an email to Laura Randall at la...@3malliance.org with the following subject heading: Community Education Internship with a formal resume and the answers to the following questions: 1. What stage of life are you at right now? (Finishing university, starting university, working professionally, between jobs?) 2. Why do you want to participate in this internship? 3. What relevant skills or experience do you have, if any? 4. How is your Spanish? 5. When would you like to come? We look forward to hearing from you!
[ECOLOG-L] Community Education Sustainable Development Internship in Ecuador
You will be stationed in the small rural community of Camarones, which is 3 km down the road from the Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve, and you will be living and working in U.S. Peace Corp-type conditions (but only for 2 months, as opposed to 2 years). You will literally be working in the shadow of the most threatened tropical forest in the world the last Pacific Equatorial Forests of coastal Ecuador, which loom in the background along the coastal mountains. Your Task: The quality of education in this community is currently very low. Most people only get as far as primary school education, and even when school is in session, teacher routinely dont show up, and the curriculum is very poorly suited to the very special ecological conditions in which the community lives in namely, they live on the edge of the most threatened tropical forest in the world. The adults in the community earn most of the money through forest-clearing activities, for lack of alternatives, and the effects of deforestation are not well understood by the community. Our hope is to significantly improve not only access to education in the community, but also the quality of the education, with emphasis on the issues that are most relevant to its particular conditions namely, forest and water ecology and agriculture. English takes on an especially important role in the development of this community for the many new eco-tourism opportunities that are beginning to present themselves. Most importantly, we are trying to foster a culture of conservation in this community and throughout the region, for which the wonders and power and beauty and importance of ecology needs to become household knowledge. You will be on the frontlines of this effort, which attempts nothing less than a regional consciousness shift and a generational change in natural resource management. Good Spanish speaking skills are not required but are a HUGE plus! To learn more, please visit our website, where you can download a complete program description, at www.3malliance.org (Homepage) or http://3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 (Internship page) We are also accepting applications for the winter session of our Tropical Conservation, Permaculture, and Research Internship. We hope to hear from you soon! Sincerely, Isabel Dávila Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Sustainable Development Internship in the Rainforest of Ecuador
A few years ago, a few of us – ecology, economics, and business graduates – founded a nonprofit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically-endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve. There was a small patch of previously-degraded land right in the middle, where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo, by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture). Our goal is 100% food self-sufficiency within 10 years. So far, we’re maybe 20% of the way there. Likewise this is a testing ground for appropriate technology, such as off-the-grid renewable energy, water treatment and management, organic pesticide production, etc. We are also in need of various biological research projects and inventories, such as botanical research, cloud forest precipitation research, GIS mapping, setting up sample plots for a bio-mass inventory, and building a native hardwood tree nursery and seed collection and germination system. Priorities for the Fall Internship include: • reforestation of native timber species • entomology (insect) inventory • species identification and labeling of trees in the forest • photo inventory of native flora • mushroom propagation system • implementing of a small-scale aquaculture system • grafting of fruit trees • native bamboo propagation If you would like to learn more, please visit our Internship page on our website, where you can download a PDF file which includes a detailed program description, at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 If you would like to apply, send an informal email to the address listed in the program description. We hope you work with you! Sincerely, Bryan Criswell, Isabel Dávila, Jerry Toth Directors, Jama-Coaque Reserve Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Sustainable Development Internship in the Rainforest of Ecuador
A few years ago, a few of us – ecology, economics, and business graduates – founded a nonprofit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically-endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve. There was a small patch of previously-degraded land right in the middle, where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo, by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture). Our goal is 100% food self-sufficiency within 10 years. So far, we’re maybe 15% of the way there. Likewise this is a testing ground for appropriate technology, such as off-the-grid renewable energy, water treatment and management, organic pesticide production, etc. We are also in need of various biological research projects and inventories, such as botanical research, cloud forest precipitation research, GIS mapping, setting up sample plots for a bio-mass inventory, and building a native hardwood tree nursery and seed collection and germination system. The Tropical Permaculture and Research program is based in the Bamboo House Research Station in the middle of the Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve. The Fall program is two-months long, from October 15 through December 15. Projects needed for the Fall Internship include: -Forest succession research in degraded/logged forest patches -Developing and testing organic pesticides on the fruit trees and vegetable gardens in the production zone -Helping design and implement a park monitoring/ranger system -Designing and building a small greenhouse or area for seed-germination and tree nursery -Implementing a previously-designed and partially-initiated small-scale aquaculture system -Stream analysis for water flow, invertebrate health, and other variables -Helping develop the trail system in the reserve for eco-tourism use, including making and implementing interpretative signs for educational hikes If you would like to learn more, please visit our Internship page on our website, where you can download a PDF file which includes a detailed program description, at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 If you would like to apply, send an email to the address listed in the program description and please write “Fall Internship” in the subject heading. We hope you work with you! Sincerely, Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Internship - Organic Coffee Co-op in Ecuador
Here’s the story. There are various patches of coffee growing underneath the forest canopy in both the Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve and in neighboring properties (in coastal Ecuador). Last year we started a local coffee cooperative, in which various local coffee growers (including the Reserve itself) pooled together their coffee for commercialization. A French-American intern, named Morgane Treanton, spearheaded the effort. We developed a label and acquired the necessary processing equipment and talked to each of the farmers who grow coffee, and we launched the product. The quality of the coffee is very high – very aromatic and good taste, according to feedback from customers in both Ecuador and in the US. But the “product” is still very undeveloped. Our labels and packaging were low-budget, and our marketing effort was exploratory but not concerted. This year we want to elevate the cooperative into a more commercially viable venture for local farmers. Coffee is a very forest-friendly way to generate income, because it grows semi-wild here and can be combined with other agroforestry crops (such as banana) and mature native hardwood trees – and no chemical fertilizer or pesticides are used whatsoever, 100% organic. So our goal is to make this a more economically attractive use of land than logging and cattle ranching. To do so, we need to improve the label, improve the packaging, encourage more farmers to join the cooperative, and more aggressively and innovatively market the product. The harvest is just about to begin, and processing will take place mostly in August and September. We need an intern to help with the processing and take on the tasks listed above – especially the marketing. The ideal candidate is someone who is interested in “green” business and artisanal/local production. It is also probably good to be a coffee enthusiast. It doesn’t matter if you don’t have experience in coffee production or marketing – it would be a bonus if you do, but also this is something that can be learned on the fly. What is most important is that you approach this project with a lot of energy and your own initiative. Nothing gets done easily here, and your main obstacle will be inertia in the community. Also, you will be living in Peace Corps-style conditions, in a small rural community in coastal Ecuador, where most people don’t have running water and horses are a major form of transportation. You need to be of strong spirit and durable constitution to thrive in this project. But it is very important for the economic future of this community and the ecological future of the forest that surrounds it. To read the complete program description, please visit our Internship page on our website at http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 The application deadline is THE END OF THIS WEEK (July 1st). Fortunately, the application is short and straightforward, We look foward to talking! Jerry Toth Director, Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Sustainable Development Internship in the Rainforest of Ecuador
Third Millennium Alliance is a nonprofit organization working to conserve one of the last remnants of tropical forest in coastal Ecuador and spearhead a regional movement toward sustainable land-use. We offer two internship programs. The Tropical Permaculture and Research program is based in the Bamboo House Research Station in the middle of the Jama- Coaque Ecological Reserve. The Community Education program is based in the small agricultural community of Camarones, which is 3 km down the road from the Jama-Coaque Reserve. Both programs are for two months. We are only accepting applications for August 1 through September 30. At the bottom of this posting, we have included a brief synopsis of each program. If you would like to learn more, please visit our Internship page on our website, where you can download a detailed program description, at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 If you would like to apply, send an email to the address listed in the program description and please write the subject heading as “Internship – August 1.” We hope to get a chance to work with you! Sincerely, Jerry Toth Director, Jama-Coaque Reserve Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org Tropical Permaculture Research: A few years ago, a few of us – ecology, economics, and business graduates – founded a nonprofit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically-endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve. There was a small patch of previously-degraded land right in the middle, where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo, by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture). Our goal is 100% food self- sufficiency within 10 years. So far, we’re maybe 15% of the way there. Likewise this is a testing ground for appropriate technology, such as off- the-grid renewable energy, water treatment and management, organic pesticide production, etc. We are also in need of various biological research projects and inventories, such as botanical research, cloud forest precipitation research, GIS mapping, setting up sample plots for a bio-mass inventory, and building a native hardwood tree nursery and seed collection and germination system. Community Education Internship: You will be living and working in U.S. Peace Corp-type conditions in a small rural community. The quality of education in this community is low and the curriculum is poorly suited to the very special ecological conditions in which the community lives in – namely, they live on the edge of the most threatened tropical forest in the world. The adults in the community earn most of their money through forest-clearing activities, for lack of alternatives, and the effects of deforestation are not well understood by the community. Our hope is to significantly improve not only access to education in the community, but also the quality of the education, with emphasis on the issues that are most relevant to its particular conditions – namely, forest and water ecology and agriculture. Most importantly, we are trying to foster a culture of conservation in this community and throughout the region, for which the wonders and power and beauty and importance of ecology needs to become household knowledge. You will be on the frontlines of this effort, which attempts nothing less than a regional consciousness shift and a generational change in natural resource management.
[ECOLOG-L] Tropical Permaculture Research Internship - Ecuador
We are building a sustainable research center in the rainforest of Ecuador and we need help. A few years ago, a few of us ecology, economics, and business graduates founded a nonprofit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically-endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve. There was a small patch of previously-degraded land right in the middle, where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo, by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture). Our goal is 100% food self-sufficiency within 10 years. So far, were maybe 15% of the way there. Likewise this is a testing ground for appropriate technology, such as off-the-grid renewable energy, water treatment and management, organic pesticide production, etc. We are also in need of various biological research projects and inventories, such as botanical research, cloud forest precipitation research, GIS mapping, setting up sample plots for a bio-mass inventory, and building a native hardwood tree nursery and seed collection and germination system. With the nearby community, we are experimenting with reforestation on previously-cleared land and eco-tourism alternatives, such as the Three Forest Trail. The program is two-months. A complete program description can be downloaded at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 At the top of this page, you will see links to two internship opportunities. Click on the program of your choice to access a complete program description. If, AFTER HAVING READ THE ENTIRE PROGRAM DESCRIPTION, you are still interested, please send an email to the address specified in the document, with the subject heading TROPICAL PERMACULTURE AND RESEARCH INTERNSHIP or COMMUNITY EDUCATION INTERNSHIP, depending on which program most interests you. It may take us 7-10 days to get back to you, as we may be in the forest and don't have internet there. We hope to get the chance to work with you! Sincerely, Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Ecuador/Rainforest Internship in Community Eco-Education
Summary: You will be stationed in the small rural community of Camarones, which is 3 km down the road from the Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve, and you will be living and working in U.S. Peace Corp-type conditions (but only for 2 months, as opposed to 2 years). You will literally be working in the shadow of the most threatened tropical forest in the world the last Pacific Equatorial Forests of coastal Ecuador, which loom in the background along the coastal mountains. Our hope is to significantly improve not only access to education in the community, but also the quality of the education, with emphasis on the issues that are most relevant to its particular conditions namely, forest and water ecology and agriculture. English takes on an especially important role in the development of this community for the many new eco-tourism opportunities that are beginning to present themselves. Most importantly, we are trying to foster a culture of conservation in this community and throughout the region, for which the wonders and power and beauty and importance of ecology needs to become household knowledge. You will be on the frontlines of this effort, which attempts nothing less than a regional consciousness shift and a generational change in natural resource management. A full program description can be downloaded on our website at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 Before you contact us, please read the entire program description. Contact info and a few brief application questions are included. We hope to work with you soon! Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org
[ECOLOG-L] Rainforest Reserve Manager Volunteer Coordinator in Ecuador
Summary: One-year paid position to manage a small rainforest reserve in coastal Ecuador and coordinate the intern/volunteer program at the research station inside the reserve. At the research station we are working on growing our food according to the principles of permaculture design/agroforestry, managing the land sustainably, experimenting with appropriate technology, and conducting biological research. The research station is off-the-grid and nested in a lush river valley not far from the beach. The ideal candidate is a versatile and resourceful leader, age 24-32, preferably with some field experience and/or food-growing experience, fluent in English and at least proficient in Spanish, with a lot of initiative and passion. In addition to a $500/month stipend, your lodging and food are covered. Which means, this job won't make you rich, but you'll be living large by Ecuadorian standards. Well need you to start by May 1st of this year, at the absolute latest (unfortunately there is no flexibility on this one). From someone who has given his heart to this project and has spent most of his days living and working in this reserve and in this region for the last few years, I say this to you with total honesty: this is one of the most dynamic and rewarding and challenging and exciting jobs a young-ish adult could ever ask for. For anyone who wants to be at the forefront of the global sustainability and/or ecological conservation movement, and get your hands dirty in the process, this is it. For more information, download the complete Job Description on our website at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 Please do not respond to this inquiry until you have read the entire job description. Because we spend most of our time in the forest, we dont have time for lots of email banter with people who are only half-interested. So we respectfully ask that you only contact us if, after reading the entire job description, you are gung-ho interested. We hope to join forces with you soon! Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org
