The BEAT News | January 24, 2017

Going Fossil Free

Join BEAT, 350-MA Berkshire Node, and Berkshire Citizens for Peace & Justice for a livestream watch-party! On Wednesday, January 31st we’ll watch Bernie Sanders, Bill McKibben & other leaders across the climate movement lay out a plan to resist Trump’s attacks on our communities and build 100% renewable energy for all. <more>

Open House Meetings on Off-Shore Drilling
Due to the shutdown these meetings have been postponed but comments should still be accepted 

You may have seen headlines recently about the Trump administration’s plan to open up the Outer Contintental Shelf (OSC) to drilling for gas and oil. This program, planned to run from 2019–2024, would open up over 90% of the OSC to exploration and exploitation. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has scheduled a series of Open House style public meetings to allow for public comment on the 2019-2024 National OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Program FROM NO FRACKED GAS IN MASS <more>

Mink exploring streams

The pattern of diagonally-paired tracks indicates that it’s likely that a member of the weasel family has been travelling on top of this mostly-frozen stream.  The presence of water makes it likely that a Mink made them. For the most part, Mink are restricted to forest cover and ponds, streams and rivers. When bounding, their hind feet register almost exactly where their front feet were, creating this double-print pattern. FROM NATURALLY CURIOUS WITH MARY HOLLAND <more>

Wisconsin Tribe Going to Court to Keep a Massive Open Pit Mine Out of Ancestral Lands

Imagine the reaction if developers proposed digging a massive open pit mine on the banks of the Potomac River at Arlington National Cemetery.The outrage of a corporation planning to mine on a hallowed burial site isn’t imaginary at all for my people, the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin. With the help of Earthjustice, we’re fighting the development of an open-pit metallic sulfide mine and processing facility just 50 yards from the Menominee River, on the Wisconsin-Michigan border. FROM GARY BESAW, MENOMINEE TRIBAL LEGISLATURE CHAIRMAN & EARTH JUSTICE <more>

Judges skeptical of request to dismiss ‘burdensome’ children’s climate lawsuit

December 11, 2017 — A panel of federal appeals court judges on Monday expressed skepticism over the Trump administration’s request to halt a high-profile climate change lawsuit brought by 21 children, which had been scheduled to begin early next year. An administration attorney asked the three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit to effectively dismiss the lawsuit, claiming that the discovery requests in the case were “burdensome” and that litigating the case could distract the executive branch from carrying out “its constitutional duties.” FROM THE WASHINGTON POST <more>

Jobs (click for full job listings)

Conservation Administrator | Town of Belchertown, MA

Various Internships | Mass. Assn. of Conservation Commissions | Belmont, MA
Paid Turtle Internship | The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Inst. | Front Royal, VA

Office Manager | Berkshire Agricultural Ventures | Great Barrington, MA

Executive Director | Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition | Sudbury, MA

Western MA Organizer | Massachusetts Jobs With Justice | Springfield, MA

Freshwater Projects Coordinator | The Nature Conservancy | Adirondack Region, NY

Conservation & Projects Manager | Kestrel Land Trust | Amherst, MA

Environmental Education Intern | Mass Audubon | Lenox, MA

Early Childhood Program Leader / Naturalist | Mass Audubon | Lenox, MA

Wildlife & Plant Conservation Intern | Mass Audubon | Lenox, MA

Nature Day Camp Educator – Summer 2018 | Mass Audubon | Lenox, MA

Land Management & Stewardship Intern | Mass Audubon | Lenox, MA

Environmental Justice Community Organizer | Arise for Social Justice | Springfield, MA

Conservation Agent | Town of Becket | Becket, MA

Executive Coordinator & Trustee Liaison | The Nature Conservancy | Boston, MA

Fee Stewardship Coordinator | MA Dept. of Fish & Game | Westborough, MA

Interpretive Writer | Hiltown Families | Williamsburg, MA

Development & Sales Officer | Hiltown Families | Williamsburg, MA

Executive Director | Hiltown Families | Williamsburg, MA

MA Community Organizer | Mothers Out Front | Worcester, MA

Government Relations Specialist | The Nature Conservancy | Boston, MA

Event Planner | Wild & Scenic Westfield River Committee | Westfield, MA

Campus Organizer | PIRG Campus Action | Western MA

Regional Recycling Coordinator | City of Pittsfield | Pittsfield, MA

Director of Ecological Restoration | MA Dept. of Fish & Game | Boston, MA

Community Solar Interns | Co-op Power | Florence, MA

Energy Efficiency Intern | Co-op Power | Florence, MA

Community Solar Program Director | Co-op Power | Florence, MA

Energy Efficiency Program Manager | Co-op Power | Florence, MA

Chief Executive Officer | Co-op Power | Florence, MA


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Going Fossil Free
Join BEAT, 350-MA Berkshire Node, and Berkshire Citizens for Peace & Justice
for a livestream watch-party 

We’ll watch Bernie Sanders, Bill McKibben & other leaders across the climate movement lay out a plan to resist Trump’s attacks on our communities and build 100% renewable energy for all.

Meet others in the Berkshires who want to organize to build local power and take climate action. Working together, we will end the use of fossil fuels and transition our world to 100% renewable energy for all. Find out what you can do to begin to build the Fossil Free future we need.

Wednesday, January 31, 2018 at 7:15pm – 9:15pm
UU Church 175 Wendell Ave. Pittsfield, MA

RSVP here.

Co-sponsored by 350MA-Berkshires, Berkshire Citizens for Peace & Justice, and Berkshire Environmental Action Team.

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Open House Meetings on Off-Shore Drilling
Due to the shutdown these meetings have been postponed but comments should still be accepted 

FROM NO FRACKED GAS IN MASS

You may have seen headlines recently about the Trump administration’s plan to open up the Outer Contintental Shelf (OSC) to drilling for gas and oil. This program, planned to run from 2019–2024, would open up over 90% of the OSC to exploration and exploitation. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has scheduled a series of Open House style public meetings to allow for public comment on the 2019-2024 National OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Program.

UPDATE: 1/21/18: Due to the government shutdown, BOEM has postponed its New England based National OCS program proposal public meetings scheduled for this week (official notice from BOEM circulating on 1/22/18). We will announce new dates for these meetings as soon as they are set. In the meantime, you should still be able to submit written comments online or by mail – see instructions below.

Please make your voice heard on this disastrous plan!
FURTHER INFO ON PROPOSAL:
National OCS Program Public Meetings
For those unable to attend one of the scheduled meetings, BOEM is offering a Virtual Meeting Room https://www.boem.gov/National-Program-Virtual-Room/ where participants can visit the same stations available at the open house meetings. There they are able to review and download the same handouts and posters offered at the meetings and provide comments.
FROM THE FEDERAL REGISTER:
“The DPP for the 2019-2024 Program would make more than 98 percent of the OCS resources available to consider for oil and gas leasing during the 2019-2024 period. Including at this stage nearly the entire OCS for potential oil and gas discovery is consistent with advancing the goal of moving the United States from simply aspiring to energy independence to attaining energy dominance. This DPP would allow for unprecedented increases in access to America’s extensive offshore oil and gas resources, a critical component of the Nation’s energy portfolio, and emphasizes the importance of producing American energy in America.”
» Read the full notice, including additional comment information
SurfRider Foundation gears up for action on the Public Hearings
FROM SURF-RIDER FOUNDATION:
The public meetings are in an open-house format so participants can arrive any time during the scheduled meeting time to express concerns about the National OCS Program. While it’s nice that people can come and go, BOEM is not providing a REAL opportunity here for the public to speak openly and on the record to voice concerns about this proposal. Additionally, ONE public meeting for the entire state, is inadequate. COME PROTEST!
Give a shout if YOU and/or your organization or business would like to help in the coordinated campaign effort: mgates@surfrider.org.

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Mink exploring streams

FROM NATURALLY CURIOUS WITH MARY HOLLAND

The pattern of diagonally-paired tracks indicates that it’s likely that a member of the weasel family has been travelling on top of this mostly-frozen stream.  The presence of water makes it likely that a Mink made them. For the most part, Mink are restricted to forest cover and ponds, streams and rivers. When bounding, their hind feet register almost exactly where their front feet were, creating this double-print pattern.

Many members of the weasel family [Mustelids], including Long-Weasels, Ermine (Short-tailed Weasels), and Fishers, also make these paired tracks, especially in deep snow. Size is one way to discriminate between them, with the size of Mink tracks (1 ½”-long) falling in between 3″- long Fisher tracks and 1”- long weasel tracks.

[ BEAT NOTE: On Saturday, February 17th acclaimed naturalist Sue Morse will present The Mysterious Mustelids in Great Barrington at Monument Mountain Regional High School. This fascinating evening is free & open to everyone (even the kids!) so come on out and learn more about mink, otter, and the rest of the mustelids! ]

 

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Wisconsin Tribe Going to Court to Keep a Massive Open Pit Mine Out of Ancestral Lands

Imagine the reaction if developers proposed digging a massive open pit mine on the banks of the Potomac River at Arlington National Cemetery.

The outrage of a corporation planning to mine on a hallowed burial site isn’t imaginary at all for my people, the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin. With the help of Earthjustice, we’re fighting the development of an open-pit metallic sulfide mine and processing facility just 50 yards from the Menominee River, on the Wisconsin-Michigan border.

The mine would cover more than 80 acres and stretch 750 feet deep, reaching far below the natural water level. Its proximity to the river, along with the slag piles and hazardous waste holding ponds, are unacceptable risks to public health, water quality, wetlands, fish and wildlife, and the environment.

Today we asked a federal court to force the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to take responsibility for a wetland permit that is key to the future of the controversial Back Forty Mine proposal. The agencies have been allowing the state of Michigan to oversee the permitting process.

As chairman of the Tribal Legislature, I see this as a battle for the future of a healthy environment in the region. It is also a battle about showing proper respect for the Menominee Tribe’s traditional cultural landscape that contains ancient garden beds, burial mounds and sacred sites.

The Back Forty Mine developer—Aquila Resources, Inc.—describes the project as an “open-pit volcanogenic massive sulfide deposit,” and is tempting potential buyers with the promise of zinc and gold, among other metals. In November, Aquila completed a $65 million financing agreement with Osisko Bermuda, Ltd. based on the mine’s potential output.

It’s the latest proof that Aquila and its investors have chosen to brush off the objections of seven local counties, two towns, two cities, dozens of tribal governments and intertribal organizations, and many other organizations, all of which have passed resolutions opposing the mine.

When a basic online search reveals this overwhelming local opposition, investors can no longer cite ignorance as an excuse. Developers, investors and financial institutions that back these controversial projects cannot simply state their commitments to corporate social responsibility on paper—they must implement them through action.

The Menominee River is a major Lake Michigan tributary, and part of the largest watershed in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The river attracts people for its rafting and fishing. The Menominee River State Recreation Area encompasses an undeveloped, 17-mile stretch of the river prized for its hiking trails and whitewater access.

Across this country, similar battles are being fought.

Whether it’s the Standing Rock Sioux’s heroic opposition to the Dakota Access Pipeline, people on the five reservations in Minnesota’s 8th District voicing concerns about a proposed open-pit copper/nickel mine there, or Pacific Northwest Tribes joining forces to help stop the nation’s largest oil-by-rail terminal from being built in Washington state,  we gain courage from their struggles.

It is critical for people to stand up to the tyranny of those who see our natural resources as precious only for the dollars that can be made from tearing into them.

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Judges skeptical of request to dismiss ‘burdensome’ children’s climate lawsuit

December 11, 2017 — A panel of federal appeals court judges on Monday expressed skepticism over the Trump administration’s request to halt a high-profile climate change lawsuit brought by 21 children, which had been scheduled to begin early next year.

An administration attorney asked the three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit to effectively dismiss the lawsuit, claiming that the discovery requests in the case were “burdensome” and that litigating the case could distract the executive branch from carrying out “its constitutional duties.”

The landmark lawsuit, initially filed in 2015 against the Obama administration, argues that the government’s actions to bolster fossil fuel production amount to a violation of the young plaintiffs’ constitutional right to a clean environment. The goal of the lawsuit is to force the U.S. government to scale back its support for fossil fuel extraction and production and to back policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Climate activists have viewed the case as a unique and potentially effective means to force policymakers in Washington to act, even as President Trump and top administration officials have questioned the science underpinning climate change and have rolled back many measures that President Barack Obama put in place to try to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

In the past two years, the case has survived several legal challenges, and a judge this summer set a trial date for February 2018. But weeks later, a federal appeals court temporarily halted the proceedings after the administration filed a petition seeking a rare legal procedure known as a writ of mandamus. It called for the 9th Circuit to reconsider a decision made by a federal judge last year to allow the climate lawsuit to move to trial.

On Monday, Chief Judge Sidney Thomas and Judge Marsha Berzon appeared skeptical about the government’s request to halt the case at this juncture and undermine the lower court’s decision, saying it would be an unprecedented and potentially unwarranted decision.

“If we set precedent on this kind of case, there is no logical boundary to it,” Thomas told administration attorney Eric Grant, arguing that countless other defendants would seek similar relief.

Although Grant acknowledged that the government was calling for a “drastic and extraordinary remedy,” he insisted that it was necessary given the broad claims being made by the plaintiffs and the burdens it would create, such as filling requests for government data going back decades and making numerous public officials available for depositions.

“This court is on a collision course with the executive branch,” he said, arguing that the judges “should grant this writ and put an end to this case.”

Judge Alex Kozinski, meanwhile, challenged the attorney for the 21 youths behind the case, questioning whether they had adequate legal standing to bring such a complaint. He also raised the question of what would happen if the courts ordered the government to tackle climate change but the White House arrived at scientific conclusions or policy prescriptions at odds with the judges. (Kozinski was accused last week of sexual misconduct.)

“Whose policy prevails?” he asked.

“Hopefully not President Trump’s,” replied Julia Olson, the attorney for the youths and executive director of Our Children’s Trust.

Kozinski also asked how the young plaintiffs were suffering any more than other Americans from the effects of climate change.

Olson replied that not only do children suffer disproportionate harm now from environmental problems, but that they would continue to suffer in the future.

“They will live far longer than you,” she told Kozinski, noting projections about the consequences of rising sea levels in coming decades. “The significance of the harm, the monumental threat these injuries pose to the plaintiffs, is very distinguishable from the rest of the country.”

Ultimately, Olson said, it was up to the courts to act as an “impenetrable bulwark” against abuses of power by the government.

Grant, meanwhile, implored the judges to stop the lawsuit from going any further.

“This case is not like the run-of-the-mill case,” he said. “If allowed to go forward, it will offend the separation of powers, particularly where there is no merit to the plaintiffs’ claims.”

UPDATE FROM OUR CHILDREN’S TRUST: The trial originally scheduled for February 5, 2018 has ben delayed due to the Trump administration’s drastic tactics before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to silence the voices of youth and keep science out of the courtroom.

Until then, we ask for your help in recognizing February 5th as a day these youth should have given open arguments in Court. It is a day to recognize six months of the Trump administration doubling down on the violation of the fundamental rights of young people. He has opened up vast fossil fuel resources at the expense of our children and used rarely invoked legal tactics to avoid a fair and full trial. It is a day to stand up for no more delay.

We will take to social media to show the federal government and the world that our youth plaintiffs would #RatherBeInCourt. Join us by posting a photo of yourself holding a sign that reads “I would #RatherBeInCourt” on your social media channels with the hashtags #RatherBeInCourt and #youthvgov. And stay tuned also for a special video message from Our Children’s Trust on February 5th.

Jobs

Various Internships
Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions

The Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC) is a non­profit corporation whose mission is to protect Massachusetts’ natural resources by supporting conservation commissions through education and advocacy. MACC provides legal, scientific, policy, and technical training to Massachusetts Conservation Commissions. MACC works collaboratively with gov­ernment agencies, nonprofits, and volunteers to achieve its environmental protection mission.

MACC is seeking environmental students to assist our association with educational events, conferences, database evaluations, fundraising projects, and/or environmental policy research. Internship applications will be accepted on a rolling basis at MACC. Our preference is to have interns work with us for a minimum of 8 to 16 hours per week, for a three to four-month period.

Internships are unpaid, but the experience will provide an excellent opportunity to learn first-hand about how small, statewide environmental non-profit organizations perform important educational and advocacy roles. It is possible that one intern could implement some, or many of the tasks listed below, depending upon candidate backgrounds and MACC priorities at that time.

INTERN POSITIONS

Communications, Finance, and Development Intern: This intern position will provide a key role assisting MACC with grant applications, fundraising campaigns, website updates, database management, and social media outreach. Candidates should have strong organizational and communication skills.

Educational and Event Management Intern. The Educational and Event Management Intern will assist the Associate Director in preparing educational courses, coordinating workshop events, and assist with workshop planning, conference coordination, and webinar implementation. Candidates should have strong communication skills and interest in independent project work.

Legislative and Policy Research: The Legislative and Policy Research Intern will assist the Executive Director with providing research support on wetlands, open space, and climate change policy topics. An ideal applicant will have an interest and enthusiasm for a wide variety of environmental issues, have experience with fast-paced research projects, and strong communication skills.

Application Instructions

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to: staff@maccweb.org

Paid Turtle Internship
The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute

The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute provides the opportunity for an intern to gain experience with the study of the ecology and conservation of threatened Virginia turtle species. The intern will assist with three projects. The first is an ongoing population monitoring project examining the distribution and status of wood turtle (Glyptemys insculpta) populations across northern Virginia. The second is a master’s research project examining wood turtle movement at the landscape level. The third project is a new study that is part of a multi-state grant to determine the status and distribution of spotted turtles (Clemmys guttata) across their range. The intern will assist with aquatic visual encounter surveys and trapping for both turtles. They will also assist with radio telemetry for one or both species and outreach activities to promote conservation in the Commonwealth.

This is a paid internship opportunity wherein the intern will support the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute. Through this internship, interns will: Radio-locate turtles and manage GPS data Provide technical assistance to stakeholders and help manage a collaborative wood turtle database Complete a required brief report at the conclusion of their tenure

Qualifications: Candidates should have graduated from a college or university within the last 12 months and have undergraduate coursework in ecology, conservation biology or a closely related field. Knowledge and field experience with ecology and conservation issues is required, as well as the ability to devote long hours in cold and wet conditions in remote field settings. Candidates should take directions easily and work well with others, yet have the ability to work independently. Individuals with previous mark-recapture and aquatic survey experience, and spatial data management and analysis skills (e.g. GIS) are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants should have plans for continued education or a career in ecology or conservation.

Stipend: The stipend is $700-900 per month (dependent on education level, coursework and skills).

Housing: Housing is provided at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia.Parking is available at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia.

Term of appointment: This is a six-month internship, starting March 5, and is a full-time appointment (40 hours per week). There is an opportunity for extension up to one year.

Application deadline(s): Monday, January 22, 2018

How to Apply: To apply, go to: https://solaa.si.edu/solaa/SOLAAHome.html. Select “New to SOLAA? Create Account Here” and complete the information to create an account.

Information that will be requested (in SOLAA) includes:

  • Basic personal information
  • Professional resume or CV
  • A one-page statement of your interest in pursuing this position. The statement should mention relevant experience, career goals, your reasons for wanting this internship and what you hope to gain from the experience. Your statement is very important during application evaluations.
  • Transcripts from your current and/or previous institutions. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
  • Two letters of reference (One must be from a current or former supervisor)
  • Schedule of availability

Once you create your account and provide the information above, you will see a screen where you select the type of appointment you are interested in. You will select: Type of appointment: “Internship” Unit of interest: “National Zoological Park” Program: “National Zoological Park Internship Program” Project: “SCBI – Wood Turtle Ecology” IMPORTANT: Your application is considered complete when you hit “Submit.” Your SOLAA submitted application with references must be received by the deadlines as noted above. For Additional Information Questions about this internship should be sent to Alison Ochs at ochsa@si.edu.

Office Manager
Berkshire Agricultural Ventures

This is a full-time position and it will evolve in responsibilities as the organization itself evolves. The successful candidate will be a creative generalist with superb interpersonal skills who is highly organized, adaptable, strategic and detail oriented. This position is a good fit for an energetic self-starter who is interested in helping a start-up organization to grow. The work will focus on three essential areas: general office support; communications management and fundraising support.

Anyone who is interested in this position should contact me at cynthia@berkshireagventures.org. This position is open until filled.

VIEW FULL JOB DESCRIPTION HERE

Executive Director
Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition

The Board of Trustees of the Mass Land Trust Coalition is seeking a full-time Executive Director with strong non-profit management experience and a highly diverse skill set.

The ideal candidate will have 5 years financial management, fundraising, grant writing, communications, governance, and administrative experience. Candidates with a working knowledge of land conservation and/or natural resource management may be given preference.

Full Job Description here.

Send resume and cover letter by January 5, 2018 to Executive Director, Marylynn Gentry at mgentry@massland.org

Western MA Organizer
Massachusetts Jobs With Justice

Massachusetts Jobs with Justice (www.massjwj.net) is seeking a dedicated, hardworking individual to coordinate and carry out the overall work of the organization as well as helping with campaigns, communications and administration of our growing community labor coalition in Western Massachusetts.

The Senior Organizer/Coordinator will work with other Jobs with Justice staff, partners, and activists to carry out the work of the organization and participate fully in the planning and implementation of our workplan as outlined by our Steering and Executive Committees. The Organizer will work under the supervision of the Executive Director based in our headquarters in Boston. LEARN MORE & APPLY HERE.

Freshwater Project Coordinator
Adirondack Chapter of The Nature Conservancy

The Freshwater Project Coordinator develops, coordinates, and advances aquatic connectivity projects, including but not limited to helping municipalities install climate-resilient and fish-friendly road-stream crossing replacements. This position will contribute to building a model aquatic regional partnership in the Adirondack region of New York State that might be replicated in other geographies. The Freshwater Project Coordinator is a three-year full-time position with the possibility of extension. LEARN MORE & APPLY HERE.

Conservation & Stewardship Manager
Kestrel Land Trust

Kestrel Land Trust is now seeking applicants for a new full-time staff position: Conservation and Stewardship Manager.
This full-time staff member will manage land conservation and stewardship projects in partnership with municipal, state and federal agencies. The position will include negotiating and drafting conservation restrictions, as well as managing stewardship of these lands after they are conserved.
Applications will be accepted through January 31, 2018. LEARN MORE.

Mass Audubon Jobs

Environmental Education Intern
Early Childhood Program Leader / Naturalist – Part-Time, Seasonal
Wildlife & Plant Conservation Intern
Nature Day Camp Educator – Summer 2018
Land Management & Stewardship Intern

Environmental Justice Community Organizer
Arise for Social Justice

Arise for Social Justice, a member-led low-income rights community organization in Springfield, MA seeks a community organizer to oversee our Environmental Justice and Public Health work in Springfield.

Responsibilities include working with community members to address ongoing sources of pollution, partnering with local and statewide organizations to develop and advocate for socially justice policy and solutions, and advancing the mission of our organization. Our Environmental Justice Organizer also coordinates the Springfield Climate Justice Coalition, an alliance of over 45 community organizations, faith based groups, civic organizations, and businesses working together for Climate Justice.

Qualified candidates will have some community organizing experience, familiarity with environmental and/or public health issues, a flexible work schedule, an understanding of the political processes and government structures, strong communication skills, the ability to manage multiple projects, and a commitment to community and social justice.

Additional preferred qualifications are experience in grant writing, researching, and reporting, experience in using social media as an organizing tool, and a familiarity with the Springfield, MA region.

Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to AriseForSocialJustice@gmail.com, ATTN: Michaelann Bewsee, Executive Director.

This is a 1099 consultant position, based on 30 hours a week at $20/hr ($600 a week). Benefits include some paid time off and sick time.

Conservation Agent
Town of Becket

The Town of Becket is seeking qualified applicants for the part-time (average seventeen (17) hours per week) non benefited position of Conservation Agent Working under the direction of the Town Administrator and general guidance of the Conservation Commission Chairman, the Conservation Agent is to provide technical and administrative assistance to the Conservation Commission. Required tasks include administering the Wetlands Protection Act and associated laws and town by-laws. The Conservation Agent to the Becket Conservation Commission will need to attend Conservation Commission Meetings, which are normally held on the 3rd Tuesday of the Month at 6:30 PM in the Becket Town Hall. Applicant must be able to develop draft and final permit approvals, orders of conditions and other Commission-issued permits as needed as well as set agendas and provide file maintenance. Must perform on-site inspections, verify wetland resource boundaries and review applications. Will need to maintain office hours for the public, day and time are negotiable but need to be consistent.

Qualifications: college degree in environmental science or other appropriate field with two or more years’ experience in wetland resource administration, or any equivalent combination of education and experience are highly desirable. Position requires sustained periods of walking and hiking, sometimes in construction zones, knowledge of Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, and ability to communicate clearly orally and in written form. The Agent must be familiar with Conservation Commission procedures and will need to interface with the public, volunteers, and various other departments in town.

Please mail or e- mail a cover letter and resume to Edward Gibson, Town Administrator, Becket Town Hall, 557 Main Street, Becket, MA. 01223; Administrator@townofbecket.org. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Becket is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer.

Executive Coordinator & Trustee Liaison
Massachusetts Chapter of the Nature Conservancy

The Massachusetts Chapter of The Nature Conservancy is recruiting for an Executive Coordinator & Trustee Liaison to be responsible for supporting the State Director, Assistant State Director, and Massachusetts Board of Trustees. S/He provides high-level administrative support and manages the operations of the Board of Trustees. For more information and to apply, visit www.nature.org/careers and search for Job #45877. Posting closes 11/29/17.

Fee Stewardship Coordinator
MA Dept. of Fisheries & Wildlife | Westborough, MA

The Department of Fish and Game, Division of Fisheries and Wildlife is accepting resumes and applications from applicants for the position of Fee Stewardship Coordinator. The Fee Stewardship Coordinator is the primary overseer and manager of the realty aspects of MassWildlife’s fee-owned properties, which include 167,000 acres assembled over the last century. The individual will have a thorough understanding of real estate terminology and research techniques and become familiar with the entirety of the agency’s portfolio of properties, in order to advise staff on matters of acquisition and stewardship.

The Fee Stewardship Coordinator will maintain realty records, coordinate boundary-marking efforts, survey contracts and other services, and manage selected boundary disputes and encroachment issues. He or she will conduct deed research and provide advice regarding property interests as necessary in support of agency stewardship, acquisition, and public enjoyment of agency lands. This effort will include periodic monitoring and site visits, collaboration in implementing the agency’s Land Information System, procuring signage, assisting in the development of agency land-use policies, and being a good colleague for the other members of the Realty Section (Chief, CR Coordinator, Realty Specialist, and interns).

To learn more and to apply, click here.

Hilltown Families Is Hiring

Hilltown Families is hiring an Interpretive Writer and Development & Sales Officer, as well as an Executive Director.

They also have openings for volunteers and interns. Take a look at their website here for all of the details.

MA Community Organizer
Mothers Out Front : Mobilizing For A Livable Climate | Worcester, MA

Position Summary: The Massachusetts Community Organizer builds and supports volunteer-led community teams to grow a diverse and powerful movement of mothers that develops and implements campaigns to achieve a swift, complete, and just transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Specifically, the Community Organizer works to:

  1. Identify mothers, grandmothers and other caregivers in Worcester and Central Massachusetts who share Mothers Out Front’s goals and are willing to take action to reduce climate change;

  2. Support the creation of member-led teams in diverse communities in Worcester and Central Massachusetts by helping to organize house parties and coaching team leaders and potential leaders;

  3. Support member-led teams to launch and carry out local Mothers Out Front campaigns;

  4. Connect local teams to state campaigns and national Mothers Out Front movement work across states; and

  5. Provide “in-the-background” support and training to team members to strengthen their leadership skills, including their use of data and technology to support organizing.

READ THE FULL JOB DESCRIPTION & APPLY HERE

Event Planner
Wild & Scenic Westfield River Committee | Westfield, MA

In 2018, the Westfield River will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary since being designated as a National Wild & Scenic River. This happens to coincide with the 50th Anniversary of the National Wild & Scenic Rivers Act. As we near a quarter century of protecting the Westfield River and half century of protecting some of the greatest rivers in the United States, we hope to celebrate the accomplishments of the National Wild & Scenic Rivers System with a series of events and promotional materials. The Wild & Scenic Westfield River Committee seeks an Event Planner to assist us with our 25th and 50th Wild & Scenic Anniversaries outreach and events in 2018. Proposals will be accepted until filled with an initial review to begin on September 28th, 2017. RFQ Details here.

Campus Organizer
PIRG Campus Action | Western MA

FULL TIME CAREER POSITION
At PIRG Campus Action, our full time organizers work on college campuses across the country to empower students to make a difference on critical environmental and social issues.

If we’re serious about climate change, we can’t afford to drag our feet—so we’re pushing cities and states to commit to 100% renewable energy, now. We rely on bees to pollinate our food, yet we’re allowing some pesticides to drive them toward extinction—so we’re working to ban these bee-killing pesticides. People in our communities and even students on college campuses are dealing with hunger and homelessness that affect their quality of life. We’re raising funds, toiletries, and food items for our local relief agencies – as well as holding fundraisers for Hurricane Relief for the communities in TX, FL, and the Caribbean who were hit from the recent natural disasters.

We’re looking for an individual who has the passion and the drive it takes to win positive change on these important issues, and who isn’t afraid of hard work. Ideally, this person has experience working on campaigns or with groups on campus. Our Berkshires organizer will mobilize a team of passionate students to run a campus chapter on two campuses in Western MA. You’ll recruit dozens of students to volunteer and get involved, and teach them how to plan and run effective campaigns through internships and on-the-ground training.

You’ll build relationships with faculty and administrators, while organizing news events and rallies, and generating the grassroots support it takes to win campaigns. During the summer, you’ll run a citizen outreach office, building the organization by canvassing and training others to canvass. And you’ll learn from some of the best organizers in the country—people who have been doing this work for more than 30 years.

Location: Western MA (organizing at Berkshire Community College and Mass College of Liberal Arts)
We’re also hiring organizers to work on college campuses in California, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Oregon and a few other states.

Pay & benefits
The target annual compensation for this position is $26,000 in the first year with room for advancement and salary increase with further commitment. We also offer a competitive benefits package including vacation days, health care, and undergraduate student loan repayment for those who qualify. We are unmatched in our entry-level organizer training program.

Apply here today or contact Samantha@masspirgstudents.org directly with any inquiries or recommendations for candidates.

Regional Recycling Coordinator
City of Pittsfield | Pittsfield, MA

The Municipal Assistance Coordinator for the Western District (WE) provides technical assistance to municipalities to increase recycling, composting, waste reduction, household hazardous waste diversion and regional cooperation. The City of Pittsfield has been awarded a Host Community grant from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) to fund this position.

The Coordinator will act under the supervision of the MassDEP and will serve 100 municipalities in a district known as “Western”. The district extends from Ware to Richmond. For a map and list of communities in the district, please visit: http://www.mass.gov/dep/recycle/reduce/macmap.htm

This is an independent contractor position. The position is funded at 36 hours per week, with an annual ceiling of 1,800 hours. Annual compensation is commensurate with experience, starting at not less than $55,000. An additional $5,000 annual reimbursement is provided for self-employment tax (Social Security and Medicare). Use of personal vehicle is required. Vehicle mileage, tolls and parking =will be reimbursed. Limited funding for in-state professional conferences is also provided.

DEADLINE TO APPLY: Friday, September 8, 2017 @ 4:00PM
Full listing and application details here.

Conservation Projects Manager
Housatonic Valley Association | Cornwall Bridge, CT

The Housatonic Valley Association (HVA) is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented environmental professional to join our Watershed Conservation Team. The successful candidate will support all aspects of HVA’s conservation projects, which include (but aren’t limited to) environmental monitoring, regional road-stream crossing assessment and replacement planning, watershed management planning, stream corridor restoration, stormwater management through Green Infrastructure development, and environmental education. This position is based out of HVA’s Connecticut office.

This is only a part of the job description. To view the full descriptions and to apply, click here.

Director of Ecological Restoration
MA Department of Fish & Game | Boston, MA

The Division of Ecological Restoration is charged with restoring and protecting the health and integrity of the Commonwealth’s rivers, wetlands, and watersheds for the benefit of people and the environment. This mission is critical to the success of the Department of Fish and Game that manages, protects, and restores the natural resources of the Commonwealth.

The Division of Ecological Restoration works with community-based partners to restore aquatic ecosystems. The Division’s ecological restoration work brings clean water, recreation opportunities, and other ecosystem services to the citizens of Massachusetts.

The Director leads the Division of Ecological Restoration, one of three Divisions (and one Office) of the Department of Fish and Game. The Director is responsible for all functions and program performance ensuring that the Deputy Director is properly managing the day-today operations of the Division and the assistant director is administering annual budgets properly. The Director develops and makes sure the annual and five-year strategic plan goals are implemented and sets procedures and program priorities for the Deputy Director and Assistant Director to faithfully administer. The Director oversees development of the operational and capital budgets and manages a diverse staff.

This is only a small part of the job description. Click here to read the full description and to apply.

Various Positions at Co-op Power

Co-op Power in Florence, MA, is hiring for:

  • Chief Executive Officer
  • Energy Efficiency Program Manager
  • Community Solar Program Director
  • Energy Efficiency Intern
  • Community Solar Interns

Full details and how to apply here.

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