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Kinder Morgan/TGP File Renewed Request for Notice to Proceed with Tree Felling

Last Friday, KM/TGP filed a renewed request for Notice to Proceed with Tree Felling for the entire CT Expansion Project. KM is anxious to complete tree felling before March 31st, during the “environmentally preferred window” to protect migratory birds. Today they filed their Biweekly Status Report, again claiming to have “received all federal permits needed for tree felling.” That’s not quite true. In addition to not having a final section 401 water quality certification from MassDEP (because of our ongoing appeal), there are several issues as yet unresolved that must be completed before FERC can consider allowing tree felling for the project.  From Katy Eiseman, PLAN-NE, January 31, 2017. <more>

FERC Issues Certificate of Public Necessity and Convenience for Spectra’s Atlantic Bridge Pipeline Expansion Project

On January 25th, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission issued a certificate of public necessity and convenience for Spectra’s Atlantic Bridge pipeline expansion project, clearing the way for the project to move forward. This project includes a compressor station in Weymouth, Massachusetts. The Baker administration still needs to provide state permits, including a Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management (CZM) decision for the Weymouth Compressor Station. Press Release from Toxics Action Center, January 26, 2017. <more>

Governor Releases Budget for Fiscal Year 2018

On January 26, Governor Baker released his $40.5 billion budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2018, which begins on July 1. Spending for environmental agencies amounts to $236 million, which is an increase of about $16 million over the budget the legislature passed for FY2017. This funding level keeps environmental spending at about half a penny of every dollar in the state operating budget. ELM’s goal is 1% for the environment – one penny of every dollar. From the Environmental League of Massachusetts (ELM). <more>

Spokane Arrestees Sue U.S. Government: Seek to Overturn Federal Preemption of Local Health and Safety Laws Concerning Coal and Oil Trains

Jobs

Conservation District Grant Administrator – Pittsfield, MA

Caretaker – Cold Brook Wildlife Sanctuary – Otis, MA

Streamflow Restoration Specialist (Environmental Analyst II) – Boston

GIS Manager – Housatonic Valley Association (HVA) – Cornwall Bridge, CT

Volunteer Ambassadors Needed at Notchview – Windsor, MA

Visitor Services Internship – U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service – Northeast Regional Office – Hadley, MA

2017 SCA MA Forests & Parks AmeriCorps Position – DCR-Wompatuck – Hingham, MA

Trail Team Massachusetts Corps – SCA Massachusetts AmeriCorps – Hawley, MA

Plant Conservation Volunteer – New England Wild Flower Society – Western Mass

Hoosic River Revival – Executive Director – North Adams, MA

Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation – Executive Director – Williamstown, MA



Spokane Arrestees Sue U.S. Government: Seek to Overturn Federal Preemption of Local Health and Safety Laws Concerning Coal and Oil Trains

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Jobs

Conservation District Grant Administrator – Pittsfield, MA

January 27, 2017 – Pittsfield, MA – The Berkshire Conservation District is seeking a part-time Program Administrator to administer grant funds over a three-year period and implement a work plan to help improve basic operations and secure long-term stability to improve its sustainability as an organization. Berkshire Conservation District is a state-mandated agency whose mission is to support local agriculture and environmental sustainability in Berkshire County through education. The goals of this position are to:

-Develop work plans, budgets, and a 5-year strategic plan

-Plan and hold 1–3 events or workshops annually

-Recruit new supervisors (board members)

-Strengthen and expand current programs

Skills and experience required for the position include an ability to work independently, to multitask and stay organized, and meet deadlines. Experience writing grants, administering grant funds, and/or work with small non-profits is preferred. Candidate should have a strong interest in environmental conservation issues. A Berkshire County resident is preferred but not required. This position is based in Pittsfield and features a flexible schedule with some ability to work remotely.

To apply, please send a cover letter, resume and three professional references to BerkshireConservationDistrict@gmail.com with the subject line “Program Administrator Position.” No walk-ins or phone calls please.

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Caretaker – Cold Brook Wildlife Sanctuary – Otis, MA

Contact Person: Stephen Hutchinson
Contact Email: shutchinson@massaudubon.org

Job Description:The Resident Caretaker serves as a friendly and professional representative of Mass Audubon to wildlife sanctuary visitors, as well as within nearby communities of the property. The caretaker provides ongoing security and monitoring of the property and responds quickly to emergency issues as they arise. He/she performs facility and/or property management duties on the property for a specified number of hours each week, often in conjunction with Mass Audubon staff and/or volunteers. Residing in a Mass Audubon residence on the premises is a requirement, which includes signing and abiding by all the provisions of a housing license. Housing provided in exchange for 8 hours/week work. Caretaker responsible for utilities. This position runs from February 1, 2017 through July 31, 2017 with a possible extension after that initial time period.

Responsibilities: Property Management 1. Ensure the maintenance and security of the properties by regularly monitoring and patrolling the premises, as well as responding to emergencies as they arise. Arrange for alternative security if absent from property for more than 24 hours. 2. Maintain grounds, buildings, and property as needed by: assisting in developing and maintaining a schedule of tasks to be completed, keeping records and reporting monthly to supervisor on tasks planned and completed; supervising contracted services, as well as volunteers; assisting with purchasing supplies and equipment;assisting with equipment and building repair and maintenance; and providing support for ecological management activities. Work independently at times as well as identify and resolve facility and property maintenance issues. 3. Assist Mass Audubon staff and volunteers with tasks related to the sanctuary or other Mass Audubon properties as directed. Visitor and Community Relations Ensure positive visitor experiences; promote membership in Mass Audubon; assist visitors with orientation and admission; install and maintain interpretative signage and exhibits; and establish and maintain positive community relations.

Qualifications: Demonstrated interest and support for the mission and goals Mass Audubon. Mature, responsible, and organized; experience in buildings and grounds maintenance, including proficiency in using hand tools, operating power tools, vehicles, and landscaping equipment, Must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license. Must have at least two years related experience. Strong ability and willingness to communicate well with staff, volunteers. and thepublic.

Physical Demands: The physical demands listed are representative of those that must be met by the caretaker to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodation maybe made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. While performing the duties of this position, the caretaker is required to talk, hear, sit,stand, and walk. The caretaker is required to bend/stoop, crawl/kneel, carry, reach, push/pull,walk over uneven terrain, and operate power tools and equipment, climb ladders, and lift up to 50 lbs. The caretaker is required to apply limited manual dexterity in combination with eye-hand coordination, such as basic keyboarding, basic hand tools and equipment, filing, operating office equipment, and operating a motor vehicle. The caretaker must have good vision to read documents for general understanding and for analytical purposes. Occasionally, the caretaker is required to review non-written materials for general observation purposes and for analytical,detailed purposes. Occasionally it is necessary for the caretaker to differentiate between colors.

Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that the caretaker encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Routinely work is performed outdoors or in unheated building spaces.Work may require performing responsibilities on evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Tools and Equipment Used: The employee is required to use a personal computer and general office equipment (e.g., telephone, calculator, adding machine, copier, facsimile, etc.) as well as hand tools, ladders, power equipment, and vehicles. May require the use of two-way radios for communication with staff. Requires a valid driver’s license.

Compensation and Benefits: Housing provided in exchange for 8 hours/week work. Caretaker responsible for utilities. This position runs from February 1, 2017 through July 31, 2017 with a possible extension after initial time period.

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Streamflow Restoration Specialist (Environmental Analyst II) – Boston

Date of posting: 1/26/17

Closing: The position will remain open until filled. However, first consideration will be given to those candidates who apply within the first 14 days.

The Streamflow Restoration Specialist works w​ith partners to gather and assess high quality data on streamflow and to promote and support restoration of more natural streamflow regimes and aquatic ecosystem health. This position will support the collection and analysis of streamflow data to inform sustainable water management and ecological restoration actions. Work will involve monitoring equipment installation and maintenance, field measurements, local outreach and education, volunteer coordination, technical and policy support, and data analysis and modeling. The Streamflow Restoration Specialist will also coordinate and manage holistic streamflow restoration projects, and provide technical assistance, such as monitoring support, to the Division of Ecological Restoration’s river and wetland restoration projects. ​This is anticipated to be a one-year contract position. Interested candidates can learn more about DER and view the full job announcement here: http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/der/.

To apply online, please visit the MassCareers website at

https://massanf.taleo.net/careersection/ex/jobdetail.ftl?job=160008O5

For more information about the position, please contact Michelle Craddock at michelle.craddock@state.ma.us or 617-626-1544.

Michelle Craddock
Watershed Ecologist
Division of Ecological Restoration
Department of Fish and Game
251 Causeway Street Boston, MA 02114
617-626-1544

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GIS Manager – Housatonic Valley Association (HVA) 
Cornwall Bridge, CT

Full-Time Position Opening. The Housatonic Valley Association (HVA) seeks a skilled and motivated Geographic Information Systems (GIS) professional, with strong geospatial expertise with ERSI’s desktop and online platforms, a facility for problem-solving and a talent for creating maps that tell a compelling story. GIS is a core competency for HVA, a nationally recognized regional watershed organization and accredited land trust working across 1,250,000 acres in western New England and eastern New York.

Position Description: This is a full-time position with benefits and salary commensurate with experience. Working from our main office in Cornwall Bridge, Connecticut, the GIS manager is a core member of the leadership team. This person maintains and enhances natural resource and parcel-based GIS data for the entire Housatonic Valley Watershed across portions of three states and multiple jurisdictions. The GIS Manager will develop geospatial models to perform spatial and tabular analysis, and publish cartographic products as static paper maps and dynamic web-based applications.

Required Qualifications:

Proven capabilities with ArcGIS Desktop 10.4.1 and ArcGIS Online Proven Project Management Skills, both individually and in a team setting

Enthusiasm to remain current in GIS technologies

Passion for Environmental Protection and Land Conservation Strong cartographic instincts Positive, solution-oriented Willingness to assist with non-GIS related activities

Valid Driver’s License Valid Employment Status (Applicants with H-1B Visas must confirm they could work for HVA)

Desired Qualifications: Familiarity with GIS data sources for CT, MA and NY

Experience with GPS and mobile GIS data collection Familiarity with ArcGIS Story Maps Experience using Data Driven Pages, ModelBuilder

Experience managing ArcGIS Online Organization Account

Email cover letter, resume, examples of recent GIS work and references to tim.abbott@hvatoday.org. The position will remain vacant until filled.

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Volunteer Ambassadors Needed at Notchview Reservation – Windsor, MA

Volunteers Needed: Help us Help Others enjoy the winter wonders of Notchview. Indoor Visitor Center & Outdoor trail opps. Assist for 2 hrs. on your ski days or join one day/wk. Fun. Social. Family opps. Free ski lesson. Notchview Reservation, 83 Old Route 9, Windsor, MA 01226. www.thetrustees.org/volunteer or 413.532.1631 ext. 3119


Visitor Services Internship – U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service – Northeast Regional Office, Hadley, MA

The individual will serve as a visitor services and communications intern for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Northeast Regional Office. This will include assisting Service staff with a variety of projects related to public use of national wildlife refuges such as environmental education, environmental interpretation, hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, volunteers, Friends and community partnerships, the Urban Refuge Initiative, and connecting people with nature. On the job training will be provided and there is the potential opportunity for further training regionally or nationally. For more information & to apply, click here.


2017 SCA MA FORESTS & PARKS AMERICORPS POSITION DCR-WOMPATUCK – Hingham, MA

This position is part of the Student Conservation Association Massachusetts Forests & Parks AmeriCorps program. MA Parks is seeking 6 Preservation & Stewardship Crew Members to serve at the MA Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)’s Wompatuck State Park in Hingham, MA. For more information and to apply, click here.

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Trail Team Massachusetts Corps – SCA Massachusetts AmeriCorps – Hawley, MA

SCA Massachusetts AmeriCorps is a residential program based in the Kenneth Dubuque State Forest in Hawley, MA, an 8,000 acre forest located in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts.

During conservation service season, members get to travel the state of Massachusetts working and camping on public lands for 10 days at a time.

The SCA Massachusetts Corps is a partnership between SCA, AmeriCorps, The Massachusetts Service Alliance, and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. SCA Massachusetts AmeriCorps members serve the lands and people of Massachusetts for five months through the completion of high priority conservation service projects on public lands. SCA Massachusetts Trail Team members will begin their service in March 2017, joining 18 other SCA Massachusetts AmeriCorps members who will have been serving since October 2016.

The majority of the position is dedicated to hands-on, outdoor conservation projects ranging from trail construction and maintenance to habitat restoration and invasive plant species removal. Leadership development is an important component of the program. Each member will serve as a crew leader for at least one 10 day field project. A typical field project or “hitch” will consist of collaborating as part of a five or six-person crew for 10 days at a time, returning to Kenneth Dubuque State Forest for a three or four day break between hitches. A portion of the position is spent earning certifications and attending trainings such as Wilderness First Responder, leadership, chainsaw, rigging, carpentry, and general trail maintenance and construction. Members will also spend time developing teaching skills through presenting environmental education based lessons and engaging volunteers in service activities. Community based living is a large component of this program. The living conditions are simple, rustic, and community focused. The corps is made up of 18 – 25 year olds with diverse backgrounds from around the country.

For more information, click HERE.

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Plant Conservation Volunteer – New England Wild Flower Society

New England Wild Flower Society is seeking enthusiastic people who have a commitment to plant conservation and protecting natural habitats to participate in their Plant Conservation Volunteer Program. Plant Conservation Volunteers (PCVs) puts the skills of citizens to work collecting information on rare plants and their habitats across all six New England states. The majority of the work focuses on rare plant monitoring, but there are also opportunities to assist with invasive species removal, habitat management projects and botanical surveys that benefit rare plants. The Society also offers free field trips and some learning opportunities to PCVs. It’s an excellent opportunity to develop your botanical skills and put them to work, learn more about the flora of New England, meet others with similar interests, and help preserve your state’s natural heritage.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Attend the annual 1-day training session held on a weekend in March/April for each of the New England states to review surveying protocols and PCV guidelines. The schedule is on our website for training sessions.
  • Review available surveys and choose ones for your abilities and/or surveys that will excel the New England Plant Conservation Program.
  • Complete at least one rare plant survey including research on plant/accessing location, coordinating with other volunteers to survey, conducting the survey and completing and submitting field forms digitally through a secure website.
  • Conduct possible seed collections on rare plants following specific protocols.
  • Represent the PCV program and conduct work in a professional manner.
  • Keep ALL data on rare plant populations confidential.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Good candidates are motivated, independent workers; have some skill in plant identification, good observation skills and are adventurous.
  • Ability to collect and organize scientific data and filing field forms in a timely manner.
  • Some computer proficiency is required for communication and submitting field forms.
  • The physical ability to hike in uneven terrain and varying weather conditions.
  • The ability to work independently or with a team of other volunteers.
  • Ability to travel some distance to survey sites and endure possible long days in the field.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply visit our website and fill out the electronic application by February 1st, 2017:

http://newenglandwild.org/conserve/saving-imperiled-plants/plant-conservation.html/

Interested applicants with botanical knowledge and are outside of Eastern Massachusetts are encouraged to apply. All who are interested must apply and be accepted into the program before attending a training session due to the sensitive nature of rare plant data and data security agreements we have with each state’s Natural Heritage.

Applications are reviewed during the winter (January – February) to be considered for that field season year. To be considered for the 2017 season, please submit your application via the online application by February 1st, 2017.

QUESTIONS? Contact: Laney Widener, Botanical Coordinator, New England Wild Flower Society, 508-877-7630 ext. 3204, lwidener@newenglandwild.org

If you would like a botanical adventure, join the PCV program. This is a great way to meet new friends, explore a wide range of habitats while contributing to the knowledge of our flora.  I joined the PCV program the first year it was in Maine and love it as a way to help our environment.   ~ B. G.

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Hoosic River Revival – Executive Director

The Hoosic River Revival, based in North Adams, Massachusetts, seeks an Executive Director to lead our river restoration efforts. We are a community-based nonprofit working to contribute to North Adams’ urban renaissance by transforming an unattractive concrete-walled section of the Hoosic River into a beautiful, ecologically-sound and publicly-accessible riverscape. This full-time position provides an opportunity to live in the beautiful New England Berkshires and oversee a project that will benefit local ecosystems and economies. No previous experience with river ecology is required. Our ideal candidate will have strong experience with project management and working closely with a board, as well as navigating government processes. To read the full job description go to http://www.hoosicriverrevival.org/position-opening-executive-director.

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 Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation –
Executive Director

The Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation (WRLF), a 30-year old land conservation trust and education organization in Williamstown Massachusetts, announces the retirement next year of its long-time executive director, Leslie Reed Evans, and the search for her replacement to lead WRLF during an exciting time in its history.  Leslie’s tenure at WRLF has spanned 23 years of exemplary service to our community. She was hired in late 1993 as interim director and was offered the permanent position in 1995 at a time when the organization was completing several major land conservation projects under her dynamic leadership and was in the midst of its largest yet, the effort to preserve the south Williamstown farm and forest lands owned by Norris Phelps along Oblong Road and extending to the Taconic Ridge. At that time, WRLF had a 14-member Board of Directors, a supporting membership of about 200 families, and an annual budget of $39,000. There were 268 acres of private land under conservation restriction, and 66 acres in WRLF’s direct ownership.

Today, WRLF annually monitors 288 acres of conservation restriction land and has close to 600 acres under its own management, including its 55-acre Sheep Hill headquarters and 380 acres on Pine Cobble, its largest preserve. Its membership has more than doubled and its annual budget has grown nearly tenfold. It has established itself as a key resource in the community and an important contributor to the beauty and quality of life which Williamstown residents and visitors alike enjoy.

During Leslie’s tenure and with the active participation of an engaged, dedicated Board of Directors, WRLF undertook many innovative projects, including managing the Reynolds limited development/conservation project, making land available for the Williamstown’s first Habitat for Humanity home, and establishing Caretaker Farm as a Community Land Trust to make it affordable to a new generation of farmers. Perhaps what Leslie is most proud of and in addition to the land conservation projects she has overseen is the acquisition and preservation of Sheep Hill and its establishment as a community resource for outdoor education and recreation for families, school children and visitors.

The search for a new executive director will begin immediately. The job posting and explanation of the application requirements are described on WRLF’s website, wrlf.org, under “Job Opportunities” on the home page. For further information contact WRLF or call its headquarters at 413-458-2494.

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