Re: [ECOLOG-L] Recommendations for rugged tablet for tropical canopy research

[Howard, Tim G (DEC)]

We use the Galaxy Tab Active2 (SM-T390NZKAXAR) in the field and have had no 
problems with it. We are in the Northeast US, so it isn't the tropics but it 
has performed well in the rain.  For carrying, the Latch 2 kit from otterbox 
works pretty well 
(https://www.otterbox.com/en-us/utility-series/latch-ii-7-8-inch/apl8-latch-7.html),
 but the corner straps do come off sometimes so depending on them while in the 
canopy might be risky. 

Tim


Timothy G. Howard, Ph.D.
Director of Science | New York Natural Heritage Program
Adjunct Assistant Professor | SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
625 Broadway, 5th floor, Albany, NY 12233-4757
(518) 402-8945
tim.how...@dec.ny.gov



> -Original Message-
> From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ECOLOG-
> l...@listserv.umd.edu] On Behalf Of Michelle Spicer
> Sent: Thursday, December 13, 2018 11:44 AM
> To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
> Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Recommendations for rugged tablet for tropical canopy
> research
> 
> ATTENTION: This email came from an external source. Do not open
> attachments or click on links from unknown senders or unexpected emails.
> 
> 
> Hello,
> 
> I am looking for recommendations for a tablet to use for tropical canopy
> research. I'd be using it to enter data (in an Excel spreadsheet or similar) 
> and
> simultaneously look at labeled photos of the plants we are studying. Since 
> I'll
> be working in a tropical rain/cloud forest, the tablet needs to be
> "ruggedized": still works in the rain, drop-resistant, etc. and have a 
> relatively
> long battery life (>8 hours) and ample storage space. Since we're bringing it
> up to the canopy, I would prefer that there is some sort of hook or
> something that I can attach it to a harness. Budget is pretty small so 
> anything
> <$1000 is preferred. Right now the option I was considering was the Samsung
> SM-T390NZKAXAR Galaxy Tab Active2 8" 16 GB Wi-Fi Ruggedized Tablet.
> 
> Any recommendations, reviews, or opinions are appreciated.
> 
> Thanks!
> Michelle Spicer
> 
> Hola,
> 
> Busco recomendaciones para una tableta para investigaciones del dosel
> tropical. Usaré la tableta para entrar datos (en Excel o otro programa) y al
> mismo tiempo mirar fotos de las plantas del proyecto. Necesito una tableta
> fuerte "ruggedized" que es impermeable a la lluvia, resistente a impactos,
> etc. y con vida de batería largo (por lo menos ocho horas) con memoria de
> por lo menos 16 GB. Preferiría que la tableta tiene gancho o algo para
> conectarla a mi arnés de escalar. Mi presupuesto es bastante pequeño, así
> prefiero una tableta que cuesta menos de $1000. Ya estoy considerando el
> Samsung SM-T390NZKAXAR Galaxy Tab Active2 8" 16 GB Wi-Fi Ruggedized
> Tablet.
> 
> Recomendaciones, críticas, o opiniones son apreciados.
> 
> Mil gracias,
> Michelle Spicer

[ECOLOG-L] Project Coordinator, Breeding Bird Atlas

[Howard, Tim G (DEC)]

ANNOUNCEMENT OF FULL-TIME PROFESSIONAL VACANCY



The Research Foundation of the State University of New York

for the College of Environmental Science and Forestry

1 Forestry Drive, Syracuse, New York 13210-2778



August 7, 2018



TITLE:  Principal Research Support Specialist



DESCRIPTIVE TITLE:  Project Coordinator, Breeding Bird Atlas



DEPARTMENT:  New York Natural Heritage Program, Albany, NY



SALARY:  $50,000 annually (Full time); position is based in Albany, Syracuse, 
or Ithaca, NY.



PROGRAM BACKGROUND

The New York Natural Heritage Program (NYNHP) is a program of the Research 
Foundation for the State University of New York College of Environmental 
Science and Forestry (SUNY- ESF) whose mission is to facilitate the 
conservation of New York’s biodiversity by providing comprehensive information 
and scientific expertise on rare species and natural ecosystems. NYNHP works in 
partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation 
and other state, federal and private organizations involved in natural resource 
management, land protection and stewardship, and advancing the conservation of 
biodiversity.



PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Breeding Bird Atlases, in which volunteer birders systematically 
document the presence and behavior of bird species over multiple years, are 
important for obtaining baseline data on a jurisdiction’s breeding birds and 
documenting distributional and phenological change. From 2020-2025, New York 
will be the first state to conduct its third Breeding Bird Atlas and for the 
first time will be using eBird (www.ebird.org) to 
facilitate the collection and storage of data. This Atlas is a partnership 
between NYNHP, SUNY ESF faculty, the New York State Department of Environmental 
Conservation, the New York State Ornithological Association, Audubon NY, 
Cornell University, and the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology. The Coordinator 
plays key roles in running day-to-day operations, engaging experienced and 
novice birders, and ensuring the collection of high-quality data on New York’s 
birds.

Funding for this position is in place until summer 2023, after 
which a renewal through the end of the Atlas is possible pending additional 
funding.



BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

  *   Oversees the day-to-day implementation of the project by tracking 
progress on volunteer recruitment and data collection.
  *   Presents on the Breeding Bird Atlas project and demonstrates eBird to a 
variety of technical and nontechnical audiences.
  *   Recruits and oversees regional coordinators and project volunteers around 
New York.
  *   Develops scopes of work for contracts and cooperative agreements and 
administers those agreements.
  *   Trains groups of birders in project methodology and connects interested 
birders to other participants.
  *   Works with eBird team to visualize and summarize Atlas data for a variety 
of audiences.
  *   Reports to project Steering Committee at regular meetings and provides 
periodic progress reports to NYS DEC.
  *   Works with project Steering Committee to identify and pursue additional 
funding opportunities.
  *   Assists Steering Committee and subcommittees with development of field 
and reporting methodology.
  *   Drum up enthusiasm for this large citizen science effort.
  *   Develops and disseminates atlas materials.
  *   Provide frequent public presentations.



REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  *   Bachelor’s Degree in ornithology, wildlife biology or management, 
zoology, conservation biology, natural history, natural resources, 
environmental science, forestry, biology, ecology, environmental education, or 
related field.
  *   Expertise in eastern bird identification in the field by sight and sound.
  *   Experience in avian observational and/or survey methods.
  *   Project management and coordination experience
  *   Strong communication skills (written and oral) to clearly articulate 
vision and plans, and provide instruction effectively.
  *   Prioritize activities and multitask.
  *   Travel throughout NYS; must have valid driver’s license.



PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  *   Connections with the birding community in New York.
  *   Connections with New York State government agencies and non-government 
organizations with land management or wildlife management responsibilities.
  *   Proficiency with mobile and desktop versions of eBird.
  *   Familiarity with the status and distribution of eastern birds, especially 
New York.
  *   Familiarity with atlasing methodology.
  *   Experience with ArcMap or related computer mapping products.
  *   Experience with web design, social media, and other outreach tools.



WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL EFFORT

  *   May travel throughout New York State conducting field work and may work 
in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous 
terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances, in 

[ECOLOG-L] NYNHP Database Specialist job

[Howard, Tim G (DEC)]

All, 
Please see the posting for a Database Specialist at the New York Natural 
Heritage Program, below.  
Best, 
Tim Howard


The direct link to the posting is:
https://esf.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=93696



ANNOUNCEMENT OF FULL-TIME PROFESSIONAL VACANCY

The Research Foundation for the State University of New York
for the College of Environmental Science and Forestry
1 Forestry Drive, Syracuse, New York 13210-2778

January 22, 2018

Title:  Programmer/Analyst II
Descriptive Title:  Database Specialist
Department:  New York Natural Heritage Program, Albany, NY 
Salary:  Minimum $47,500 depending on experience (Full time); position is based 
in Albany, NY.

PROGRAM BACKGROUND
   The New York Natural Heritage Program (NYNHP), a program of the Research 
Foundation for the State University of New York College of Environmental 
Science and Forestry (SUNY- ESF), facilitates the conservation of New York's 
biodiversity by providing comprehensive information and scientific expertise on 
rare species and natural ecosystems. NYNHP works in partnership with the New 
York State Department of Environmental Conservation and other state, federal, 
and private organizations involved in natural resource management, land 
protection and stewardship, and biodiversity conservation. 
   The New York Natural Heritage Program uses MS Access, MS Excel, ArcGIS, 
Crystal Reports, the R statistical environment, and various scripting and 
programming languages. NYNHP also uses customized spatial and database 
applications for field data collection on Android mobile devices, an integrated 
web-enabled platform, Biotics 5, which includes an ArcGIS Server-based mapping 
platform for spatial data, and an Oracle relational database for tabular data 
on rare species and natural communities.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:
. Contribute to the maintenance and development of many of New York Natural 
Heritage Program's databases and applications.
. Provide technical expertise to staff using databases in daily activities and 
work with staff in fulfilling database needs.
. Design and debug relational databases.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
. Associates Degree in computer sciences, information technology, or related 
field, plus 1-2 years of experience using, developing, or maintaining 
relational databases.
. Demonstrated experience with using, populating, maintaining, and reporting 
from relational databases including MS Access.
. Experience with SQL and VBA. 
. Demonstrated experience in relational database best practices, concepts, 
relationships, and design.
. Ability to analyze technical specifications and interfaces, debug 
applications, and produce effective user and technical documentation.
. Experience with use of PC operating systems and hardware, office productivity 
software and desktop utilities.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
. Bachelor's degree and experience in relational databases and computer 
programming.
. Experience in scripting/programming with R, Python, and/or Java.
. Experience with Oracle, PostgreSQL, MySQL, and SQLite.
. Experience with mobile technology application development for Android.
. Desire to apply technical skills to environmental and biodiversity 
conservation.
. Ability to work in a busy, open environment with a diverse load of tasks and 
ever-rotating needs from colleagues. 

Application Deadline:  Although applications will be accepted until the 
position is filled, candidates should submit their application by February 7, 
2018 to ensure optimal consideration.

Application Procedure: Employment application is required to be submitted 
on-line at http://www.esf.edu/hr/  Attach cover letter, curriculum vitae, 
resume, and contact information for three employment references.

In accordance with the "Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and 
Campus Crime Statistics Act" institutions of higher education are required to 
prepare an annual report containing information on campus security policies and 
campus statistics. This report includes statistics for the previous three years 
concerning reported crimes that occurred on-campus; in certain off-campus 
buildings or property owned or controlled by SUNY-ESF; and on property within, 
or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. The report also 
includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies 
concerning sexual assault, and other matters. You can obtain a printed copy of 
this report by contacting SUNY-ESF University Police at 315-470-6667 or by 
accessing the following web site: http://www.esf.edu/univpolice/crimereports/
The Research Foundation is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. 
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without 
regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, 
national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other 
characteristic protected by law.  
Visit SUNY-ESF at 

[ECOLOG-L] ANNOUNCEMENT OF VACANCY - Research Scientist (Ecologist)

[Howard, Tim G (DEC)]

All, 
The New York Natural Heritage Program, a program of The State University of New 
York College of Environmental Science and Forestry is looking for an ecologist 
to be a part of our team. This is a great position and this person will get to 
conduct field work in some great natural areas in New York State. The New York 
Natural Heritage Program is based in Albany, NY. 

Here's the link to the specific job description and directions for applying:

https://esf.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=85059

Here's the text of the position announcement. 

Research Scientist -Descriptive Title: Ecologist
About College of Environmental Science and Forestry:
Founded in 1911, the State University of New York College of Environmental 
Science and Forestry (ESF) is the nation's oldest and most respected school 
dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies 
and building a sustainable future. The ESF main campus is in Syracuse, NY and 
has regional campuses throughout Central New York and the Adirondack Park. ESF 
consistently earns high rankings in US News and World Report, Forbes, 
Peterson's Guide, The Washington Monthly, Princeton Review and other national 
college guidebooks.

Job Description:
Title: Research Scientist
Descriptive Title: Ecologist
Department: New York Natural Heritage Program, Albany, NY
Salary: Minimum $49,000 per year (Full time) depending on experience; position 
is based in Albany, NY.

BACKGROUND
The New York Natural Heritage Program (NYNHP) is a program of the Research 
Foundation for the State University of New York College of Environmental 
Science and Forestry (SUNY- ESF) whose mission is to facilitate the 
conservation of New York's biodiversity by providing comprehensive information, 
database applications, and scientific expertise on rare species and natural 
ecosystems. NYNHP works in partnership with the New York State Department of 
Environmental Conservation and other state, federal and private organizations 
involved in natural resource management, land protection and stewardship, and 
advancing the conservation of biodiversity.

The New York Natural Heritage Program uses an integrated web-enabled platform, 
Biotics 5, for tabular and spatial data management. Hosted in a shared cloud 
environment by NatureServe, and used by members of the NatureServe Network, 
Biotics provides built-in support for shared methodology and data standards for 
natural heritage programs and conservation data centers across the United 
States and Canada. NYNHP also uses ArcGIS, MS Access, MS Excel, iMapInvasives, 
the R statistical environment, various scripting and programming languages, and 
customized spatial and database applications for field data collection on 
Android mobile devices

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:
Serve as a project manager by coordinating the work of NYNHP staff and 
contractors working on ecology projects. Act as a liaison to project sponsors, 
present project overviews at conferences and meetings, and write progress 
reports as needed. 

Conduct landscape analyses to assess ecological integrity and identify 
potential inventory sites using remote sensing data, other digital and 
hard-copy data layers, and information from the scientific literature, 
government agencies, and knowledgeable individuals.

Conduct field surveys to document natural communities and rare plants using the 
methods and techniques developed by the Natural Heritage Network and other 
experts. Transcribe, update, and map significant natural community and rare 
plant element occurrence records. Assess site condition using metrics collected 
onsite and remotely. 

Assist the Chief Ecologist in the development of the state ecological community 
classification by transcribing and updating of high-priority natural community 
element occurrence records, maintaining natural community element files, and 
revising community descriptions. 

Participate in the ongoing development of new tools, methods, processes, and 
techniques that improve the collection, storage, analysis, interpretation, 
dissemination, and application of NYNHP information. 

Communicate the role of the NYNHP in the conservation of New York's 
biodiversity, and explain the utility of inventories and landscape analyses to 
partners and members of the public.

Respond to requests for ecological information from the NYNHP database and 
provide interpretation, as needed

Maintain relationships with outside partners, state/local/federal agencies, 
land managers, private landowners and the academic community.

Requirements:
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree with 1-3 years of experience in ecology or biological 
sciences.
Course work or field experience in community ecology and plant species 
identification.
Familiarity with aerial photograph interpretation and community mapping.
Experience in ArcMap or related computer mapping products.
Experience in using common software applications (e.g.; Word, 

[ECOLOG-L] POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT - Senior Research Support Specialist, SUNY-ESF, Albany NY

[Howard, Tim G (DEC)]

Ecologgers,
Please see the announcement below. Feel free to distribute!  
Here's a direct link to the announcement online:
https://esf.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=81781

Thanks,
Tim Howard, New York Natural Heritage Program. 
>

The Research Foundation for the State University of New York
For the College of Environmental Science and Forestry
1 Forestry Drive, Syracuse, New York 13210-2778

February 24, 2017

Title:  Senior Research Support Specialist 

Descriptive Title:  Assistant Zoologist

Department:  New York Natural Heritage Program, Albany, NY 

Salary: Minimum $45,000 depending on experience (Full time); position is based 
in Albany, NY.


PROGRAM BACKGROUND
The New York Natural Heritage Program (NYNHP) is a program of the Research 
Foundation for the State University of New York College of Environmental 
Science and Forestry (SUNY- ESF) whose mission is to facilitate the 
conservation of New York's biodiversity by providing comprehensive information 
and scientific expertise on rare species and natural ecosystems. NYNHP works in 
partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation 
and other state, federal and private organizations involved in natural resource 
management, land protection and stewardship, and advancing the conservation of 
biodiversity. 

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES
. Processes data collected into databases, including NYNHP Field Forms database 
and Biotics (Biodiversity Tracking and Conservation System).
. Maps occurrences of rare animals using the standardized Natural Heritage 
methodology.  
. Assists biologists in conducting fieldwork on animals across New York State.
. Compiles data from internal and external sources on field sites to be 
visited, including data from Natural Heritage databases and GIS, landowner 
information, historical documentation and more.
. Compiles and prepares data for analysis with ArcGIS analyses and statistical 
software. 
. Assists with obtaining information from partners. 
. Reviews scientific literature and museum collections as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
. A Bachelor's Degree in zoology, natural history, natural resources, 
environmental science, forestry, biology, ecology, or related field.  
. Course work or field experience in one or more of the following areas: 
community ecology, wetland systems, zoology, botany, wildlife management. 
. Experience with ArcMap or related computer mapping products. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
. Familiarity with field sampling methods and collecting 
biological/environmental data.
. Familiarity with aerial photography and field navigation using aerial and 
topographic maps. 
. Knowledge of regional fauna and flora, natural communities, ecosystems, or 
ecosystem processes. 
. Familiarity with taxonomic keys and field guides.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL EFFORT
. May travel throughout New York State conducting field work and may work in 
variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous 
terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances, in isolated settings.


Application Deadline:  Although applications will be accepted until the 
position is filled, candidates should submit their application by March 17, 
2017 to ensure optimal consideration.

Application Procedure: Employment application is required to be submitted 
on-line at http://www.esf.edu/hr/. Attach cover letter, curriculum vitae, 
resume, and contact information for three employment references.

In accordance with the "Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and 
Campus Crime Statistics Act" institutions of higher education are required to 
prepare an annual report containing information on campus security policies and 
campus statistics. This report includes statistics for the previous three years 
concerning reported crimes that occurred on-campus; in certain off-campus 
buildings or property owned or controlled by SUNY-ESF; and on property within, 
or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. The report also 
includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies 
concerning sexual assault, and other matters. You can obtain a printed copy of 
this report by contacting SUNY-ESF University Police at 315-470-6667 or by 
accessing the following web site: http://www.esf.edu/univpolice/crimereports/

The Research Foundation is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. 
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without 
regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, 
national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other 
characteristic protected by law. 

Visit SUNY-ESF at www.esf.edu

[ECOLOG-L] Programmer/Analyst II (Database Specialist) at the New York Natural Heritage Program

[Howard, Tim G (DEC)]

Hi All - 
The New York Natural Heritage Program is looking for Database Specialist. 
Here's a link to the posting:

http://esf.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=75126


And here are more details. Please distribute as you see fit. Upstate New York 
is a great place to be and the Heritage Program is a great place to work!
 - Tim

ANNOUNCEMENT OF PROFESSIONAL VACANCY

The Research Foundation for the State University of New York
for the College of Environmental Science and Forestry
1 Forestry Drive, Syracuse, New York 13210-2778

August 10, 2016

Title:  Programmer/Analyst II
Descriptive Title:  Database Specialist
Department:  New York Natural Heritage Program, Albany, NY 
Salary:  Minimum $47,500 depending on experience (Full time); position is based 
in Albany, NY.

PROGRAM BACKGROUND
The New York Natural Heritage Program (NYNHP), a program of the Research 
Foundation for the State University of New York College of Environmental 
Science and Forestry (SUNY- ESF), facilitates the conservation of New York's 
biodiversity by providing comprehensive information and scientific expertise on 
rare species and natural ecosystems. NYNHP works in partnership with the New 
York State Department of Environmental Conservation and other state, federal, 
and private organizations involved in natural resource management, land 
protection and stewardship, and biodiversity conservation. 
The New York Natural Heritage Program uses MS Access, MS Excel, ArcGIS, Crystal 
Reports, the R statistical environment, and various scripting and programming 
languages. NYNHP also uses customized spatial and database applications for 
field data collection on Android mobile devices, an integrated web-enabled 
platform, Biotics 5, which includes an ArcGIS Server-based mapping platform for 
spatial data, and an Oracle relational database for tabular data on rare 
species and natural communities.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:
*   Contribute to the maintenance and development of many of New York 
Natural Heritage Program's databases and applications.
*   Provide technical expertise to staff using databases in daily 
activities and work with staff in fulfilling database needs.
*   Design and debug relational databases and web-based applications that 
use both tabular and spatial data.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
*   Associates Degree in computer sciences, information technology, or 
related field, plus 1-2 years of experience using, developing, or maintaining 
relational databases.
*   Demonstrated experience with using, populating, maintaining, and 
reporting from relational databases including MS Access.
*   Experience with SQL and VBA. 
*   Demonstrated experience in relational database best practices, 
concepts, relationships, and design.
*   Ability to analyze technical specifications and interfaces, debug 
applications, and produce effective user and technical documentation.
*   Experience with use of PC operating systems and hardware, office 
productivity software and desktop utilities.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
*   Bachelor's degree and experience in relational databases and computer 
programming.
*   Experience in scripting/programming with R, Python, and/or Java.
*   Experience with Oracle, PostgreSQL, MySQL, and SQLite.
*   Experience with mobile technology application development for Android.
*   Some familiarity with and interest in biology, ecology, and 
conservation desirable. Familiarity with Natural Heritage Programs and their 
methodology helpful.
*   Familiarity with ESRI's ArcGIS software or other Geographic Information 
Systems.
*   Ability to work in a busy, open environment with a diverse load of 
tasks and ever-rotating needs from colleagues. 

Application Deadline:  Although applications will be accepted until the 
position is filled, candidates should submit their application by August 31, 
2016 to ensure optimal consideration.

Application Procedure: Employment application is required to be submitted 
on-line at http://www.esf.edu/hr/  Attach cover letter, curriculum vitae, 
resume, and contact information for three employment references.

In accordance with the "Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and 
Campus Crime Statistics Act" institutions of higher education are required to 
prepare an annual report containing information on campus security policies and 
campus statistics. This report includes statistics for the previous three years 
concerning reported crimes that occurred on-campus; in certain off-campus 
buildings or property owned or controlled by SUNY-ESF; and on property within, 
or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. The report also 
includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies 
concerning sexual assault, and other matters. You can obtain a printed copy of 
this report by contacting SUNY-ESF University Police at 315-470-6667 or by 
accessing the following web 

Re: [ECOLOG-L] GPS recommendations

[Howard, Tim G (DEC)]

Merav,
The open source app Geopaparazzi can do all those things for you. It is Android 
only so would work on the Nexus, not the iPhone. You can find it in the Play 
Store. 

Cheers, 
Tim

> -Original Message-
> From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ECOLOG-
> l...@listserv.umd.edu] On Behalf Of Merav Vonshak
> Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 6:25 PM
> To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
> Subject: [ECOLOG-L] GPS recommendations
> 
> ATTENTION: This email came from an external source. Do not open
> attachments or click on links from unknown senders or unexpected emails.
> 
> 
> Hi all,
> I would greatly appreciate your input on a handheld GPS device. I’m looking
> for a GPS device that would allow me to navigate to my field sites, including
> uploading plot locations from Google Earth or ArcGIS and viewing them in the
> field, over an aerial photo of the site. I will also need to record data 
> points.
> I’m considering using an iPhone 6 or a Google Nexus 9 device, wondering
> about the pros and cons of each options and the app I should use in case I
> choose the iPhone or the Nexus.
> Thank you!
> Merav

Re: [ECOLOG-L] tablets in the field

[Howard, Tim G (DEC)]

Amanda, 
We have been pretty happy with Android tablets and the DroidDB database system 
for this purpose:

http://droiddb.syware.com/

You build a lot of complexity and functionality into a DroidDB database and, 
once built, you can deploy to more than one unit. We filter for species lists 
as well as strata in the plots. 

Most of the cases out there work well. I like the extra straps that Otterbox 
also sells ("Utility Series Latch II") because then you have a shoulder strap 
for the tablet, a hand strap, and a place to hold a portable backup battery in 
case you end of spending a long day in the field and the tablet needs more 
power. (I plug the tablet into the battery with a very short cord and nestle 
the battery between the elastic hand strap and the tablet). 

On a final note, if you need spatial data, we use the open-source Android App 
called Geopaparazzi. 

http://geopaparazzi.github.io/geopaparazzi/

If you need to see where you are or collect gps points (using only the tablet's 
gps at this point), this will do it. 

Best, 
Tim

> -Original Message-
> From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ECOLOG-
> l...@listserv.umd.edu] On Behalf Of Amanda Goldberg
> Sent: Thursday, February 04, 2016 5:22 PM
> To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
> Subject: [ECOLOG-L] tablets in the field
> 
> I know there have been a few previous messages about using Tablets in the
> field but I was hoping to ask a few specifics.  We are planning to use these
> tablets primarily for collecting vegetation data (and maybe adding more uses
> further down the line as we work out the kinks).  This summer we would like
> to enter all our daubemire percent cover data into the tablets while we are in
> the field to minimize the amount of data entry we need to do when we
> return every evening.  Our sites contain quite a few plants so we need a pull
> down tab or some other option to identify up to 100 plant species.  My
> questions are:
> 
> 1) Is there an app that you would recommend we use to design a data sheet
> on the tablet that would be easy to use for vegetation percent cover data
> collections?  One that will allow us to enter percent cover estimates for many
> different plant species at multiple locations (we have 30, 1 meter squared
> quadrats per site or 16 per plot within each site).  We would prefer an open
> access (free) app but we are willing to pay if it means a better format for 
> our
> data collection.  We would love to be able to export the data to a computer
> each day and save or convert it to an excel format.
> 
> 2) Any particular tablets that you recommend we use (or avoid)?  We are
> budget limited so we are looking for tablets that are certainly under
> $400 each and preferably less than that.
> 
> 3) Any particular covers/cases that you would recommend for the tablets.
> We don't expect the tablets to get super wet or dirty but we work outside so
> they are not completely safe from the elements.
> 
> Any comments or suggestions on these 3 questions would be greatly
> appreciated.  Feel free to email be directly at:
> gold1...@vandals.uidaho.edu
> 
> Thank you,
> Amanda

[ECOLOG-L] Research Scientist 2, Biology - Quality Assurance Officer. NY

[Howard, Tim G (DEC)]

I am posting this for a colleague, please see contact information below. 

--

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Research Scientist 2 
(Biology)

Position: Research Scientist 2 (Biology) - Quality Assurance Officer 
Salary:   $64,302 per year (starting) to $81,415
Location: Albany, NY


Overview: The quality assurance officer manages the Division of Fish, Wildlife 
and Marine Resources' quality assurance system to ensure that laboratory work, 
data collection and analysis, and data management activities are consistently 
conducted according to valid scientific principles. A substantial portion of 
the duties involves quality assurance at the Division's analytical laboratory 
for fish contaminants.
 
Duties: Implement the Division's quality management plan. Provide quality 
assurance oversight for projects involving collection or analysis of biological 
and chemical environmental data and for ecotoxicology studies. Provide quality 
assurance oversight at the Division's analytical laboratory: maintain standard 
operating procedures, ensure that analytical instrumentation is properly 
calibrated, review chromatograms and other instrumental output to ensure that 
quantitation is correct, and maintain and review control charts and other 
aspects of analytical quality tracking. Develop and maintain procedures for the 
collection and preparation of aquatic biota for contaminant analysis by 
external agencies: evaluate biological sampling plans to ensure that data 
collection is adequate to evaluate risk to ecological receptors and human 
consumers of fish, review laboratory analytical reports, and determine whether 
adequate quality assurance procedures were followed. Audit field operations and 
data collection to check adherence to project plans, standard operating 
procedures and sound scientific practices. Ensure reliability and continuity of 
databases. Determine contaminants of emerging concern that are ecologically 
relevant to New York State aquatic biota by evaluating potential for uptake and 
passage through food webs, research appropriate analytical methods, and help 
develop procedures for a production laboratory environment with appropriate 
quality assurance procedures.

Qualifications: Candidates must have a Bachelor's Degree and three years of 
professional research experience in an appropriate scientific field (e.g., 
biology, chemistry, biochemistry, ecology, environmental chemistry); or a 
Master's Degree in the appropriate field and two years of such experience; or a 
doctorate in the appropriate field. Candidates must have a strong background, 
including course work and practical experience, in laboratory based analysis. 
Desirable attributes include experience with research design, strong writing 
skills, ability to review the work of others in a constructive manner, 
familiarity with analysis of biological tissue for contaminants and laboratory 
quality assurance, ability to read gas chromatograms, knowledge of field 
biology data collection, experience with statistics, data management and 
relational databases, and experience with laboratory and field audits.

Contact: For more information or to apply with cover letter, resume, college 
transcript (unofficial acceptable):
 Wayne Richter, Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources
 New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4756
 wayne.rich...@dec.ny.gov
Deadline: November 9, 2015

NEW YORK STATE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. It is the policy of the State 
of New York to provide for and promote equal opportunity in employment, 
compensation and other terms and conditions of employment without 
discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, disability, national 
origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, or arrest and/or criminal 
conviction record unless based upon a bona fide occupational qualification or 
other exception.

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Percent cover flashcards

[Howard, Tim G (DEC)]

I recall there being something like this in the Munsell soils books for 
estimating proportion of coarse fragments. Here are two hits online (or google: 
charts for estimating proportions of mottles and coarse fragments): 

Page 21 (pdf page 27) in here:

www.vliz.be/imisdocs/publications/217749.pdf

Slide 86 in here:

http://www.floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/onsite-sewage/training/_documents/1-soil-colors.pdf

Good luck.
Tim


 -Original Message-
 From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ECOLOG-
 l...@listserv.umd.edu] On Behalf Of Evelyn Williams
 Sent: Thursday, May 28, 2015 10:00 AM
 To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
 Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Percent cover flashcards
 
 Hello Ecolog community,
   In preparation for summer sampling, I'm looking for flashcards that show
 ways that percent cover can be distributed in a quadrat, i.e., 25% cover with
 clumped, random, and uniform distributions. Does anyone know of a source
 for this type of flashcard? Google searches are unfortunately not very
 fruitful.
   Best,
  - Evelyn Williams
 
 Chicago Botanic Garden
 Glencoe, IL

[ECOLOG-L] Position opening: wetland ecologist

[Howard, Tim G (DEC)]

All,
The New York Natural Heritage Program based in Albany, NY is currently looking 
for a wetland ecologist.  For more info, please see:

http://esf.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=57573

Thank you,
Tim

Timothy G. Howard, Ph.D.
Director of Science | New York Natural Heritage Program
Adjunct Assistant Professor | SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
625 Broadway, 5th floor, Albany, NY 12233-4757
(518) 402-8945
 tim.how...@dec.ny.gov

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Device for field work

[Howard, Tim G (DEC)]

Mauricio,
The android app called Geopaparazzi can store and display maps offline and 
polygon editing was just added this past summer, so it does all that you need. 
It still has active development but it is also stable enough for full use.  

http://geopaparazzi.github.io/geopaparazzi/

We have modified it for our own needs and are using it for biological field 
work. 
Cheers, 
Tim
-Original Message-
From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news 
[mailto:ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Mauricio Carrasquilla
Sent: Thursday, January 29, 2015 4:08 PM
To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Device for field work

Hi all,

I am planning my field work and would like some input on a specific question. 
As part of my dissertation I will be interviewing fishermen in, likely, remote 
areas with limited internet access and phone coverage. A considerable part of 
the interviews is to make the fishermen show me in charts where their fishing 
areas are and have been in the past. One option is taking printed charts and 
then digitalizing them however that may be very time consuming. I was planning 
on using a tablet (advices welcome) where I could have the study area and make 
them draw the polygons in the tablet and save them as data. I have been 
researching and it seems a bit complicated to have the maps offline and be able 
to draw polygons although there are some apps that work. 

In summary, I would appreciate any advice from people that have done similar 
surveys in similar conditions and that are able to provide input on what their 
experiences have been.

thanks in advance,

Mauricio Carrasquilla
PhD Candidate
Fisheries Ecology and Marine Conservation Group Department of Biology, 
University of Victoria

[ECOLOG-L] GIS Specialist, Spatial Ecologist, IMap Invasives Admin Assistant

[Howard, Tim G (DEC)]

The New York Natural Heritage Program is looking for people to fill the 
following three positions:

GIS Specialist
http://esf.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=54517

Spatial Ecologist/Modeler
http://esf.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=54514

iMapInvasives Administrative Assistant
http://esf.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=54502


Best, 
Tim Howard


Timothy G. Howard
Director of Science | New York Natural Heritage Program
Adjunct Assistant Professor | SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
625 Broadway, 5th floor, Albany, NY 12233-4757
(518) 402-8945
 
*** NEW EMAIL ADDRESS: tim.how...@dec.ny.gov  ***