Thank you to Rachel Branch, producer of the television show Solutions Rising for including a “BEAT” series for people to learn more about the fracked gas pipelines proposed to bring gas from the fracking fields of Pennsylvania across New York, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire to a gas hub in Dracut, MA. The show interviews many people providing information about the proposed pipelines as well as the many alternatives to these pipelines.
Attorney General’s ‘listening session’ takes aim at Kinder Morgan, GE plans
About 70 area residents attended a state Attorney General’s office “listening session” on Thursday — aiming to fight giants like Kinder Morgan and General Electric. Though physically at the Ralph Froio Senior Center in Pittsfield, most minds seemed in the Otis State Forest, on protected lands Kinder Morgan hopes to traverse for its Connecticut Expansion Project natural gas pipeline expansion project. Many of the other attendees vented about GE’s Housatonic River cleanup plan — deemed weak and likely to leave most of the PCB-contaminated material in the river. By Phil Demers, The Berkshire Eagle, May 26, 2016
EPA insists off-site disposal of PCB sediment is preferred option
A status update issued Wednesday (May 25) by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the General Electric’s Company’s cleanup of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from the Housatonic River appears to have been distributed to clear up “incorrect” information in a “recent [newspaper] article.”EPA Public Affairs Specialist Kelsey O’Neil wanted to further “correct any confusion regarding EPA’s position on disposal of PCBs,” something Berkshire County residents are keeping a close eye on. “To reiterate,” she wrote, “the EPA’s recommendation for disposal of excavated material is for off-site disposal at an existing licensed facility. EPA’s recommendation has been consistent in all its proposals.” There are no such licensed disposal facilities in Massachusetts. By Heather Bellow, The Berkshire Edge, May 29, 2016.
Action Alert – Support Endangered Rattlesnake Recovery Plan
Please consider writing a letter in support of Timber Rattlesnake conservation in Massachusetts! The plan to conserve Timber Rattlesnakes was developed by the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program in conjunction with scientists from UMass Amherst. This is a science-based recovery plan. Any questions of public safety were thoroughly vetted during state hearings. BEAT believes that recovery plans for endangered species should be developed by the appropriate scientists and ecologists and not stopped because of someone’s irrational phobia.The Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program should be allowed to follow its legislative mandate to protect all native species in the Commonwealth without further legislative interference.
Elizabeth Kolbert to Receive Massachusetts Book Award in Nonfiction
Elizabeth Kolbert, winner of the 2015 Massachusetts Book Award for Nonfiction for “The Sixth Extinction,” will be honored on Thursday, June 9 at 2:00 p.m. at the David & Joyce Milne Public Library in Williamstown. Massachusetts Center for the Book is joining Representative Gailanne M. Cariddi (D-North Adams) to present the award at the ceremony, generously hosted by the Milne Library.
2016 Massachusetts Envirothon Winners Announced
Local teenagers were rewarded for their hard work and the environmental knowledge they gained in preparing for this year’s Massachusetts Envirothon, held on Thursday, May 12th at Hopkinton State Park, Hopkinton, Massachusetts. More than 250 high school students from over 30 Massachusetts communities gathered to compete in the 29th Annual Envirothon. Top honors went to a team of students from Newton North High School.
Jobs
Watershed Ecologist (Environmental Analyst IV) – Boston
Mohawk Forest Environmental Education Internship – North Adams
Confronting Climate Change Internships: Five On-campus summer emissions research positions – Williams College
Outdoor Educator – Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center, Cropseyville, NY
Assistant Director, Summer Camp – Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center, Cropseyville, NY
Greenagers Summer Jobs – Trail Crews & Agricultural Apprentices – Various locations in Berkshire and Columbia Counties
Landscape Design Assistant, Garden Installation Manager & Crew, Fine Garden Maintenance Crew – Helia Native Nursery and Land Design
Camp Counselors – Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary of Mass Audubon
Attorney General’s ‘listening session’ takes aim at Kinder Morgan, GE plans
By Phil Demers
The Berkshire Eagle
May 26, 2016
PITTSFIELD — About 70 area residents attended a state Attorney General’s office “listening session” on Thursday — aiming to fight giants like Kinder Morgan and General Electric.
Though physically at the Ralph Froio Senior Center in Pittsfield, most minds seemed in the Otis State Forest, on protected lands Kinder Morgan hopes to traverse for its Connecticut Expansion Project natural gas pipeline expansion project.
Many of the other attendees vented about GE’s Housatonic River cleanup plan — deemed weak and likely to leave most of the PCB-contaminated material in the river.
Much of the session took on the character of a brainstorming session between residents and a very sympathetic trio of AG consumer advocates, on potential legal avenues to defeat Kinder Morgan on the pipeline or garner concessions from GE.
“This is the most incredibly legally astute audience I think we’ve ever had,” Melissa Hoffer, AG Environmental Protection Division chief, said at one point, earning laughter from the audience. “You should all come work for us.”
A majority of the residents there became educated fighting Kinder Morgan’s now-abandoned Northeast Energy Direct pipeline proposal and now have shifted that energy toward blocking CEP expansion.
The 13.42-mile expansion of an existing gas line route — 3.81 miles in the Berkshires and 2.3 within Otis State Forest — won federal approval in March, and authority to access the site was upheld in Berkshire Superior Court. Eminent domain for an approved project was upheld as overriding the state’s constitutional conservation protection in Judge John A. Agostini’s ruling earlier this month.
In the case, AG office attorneys — including Assistant Attorney Gen. Matthew Ireland, who was present Thursday — argued that Article 97 of the state constitution prohibits such use of protected conservation land without a two-thirds vote of the state Legislature.
The dominant message residents sought to convey on Thursday was: Appeal the decision.
“I want my state to protect Article 97 lands,” Jean Atwater-Williams, of Sandisfield, said. “The [Otis State Forest] had been identified 15 years before its purchase as a ‘key acquisition’ for the state. It paid $5.2 million for it. If this land cannot be protected, what land can be?”
Ireland seemed doubtful about the prospects of an appeal, but also assured the audience. “This isn’t over,” he said.
Residents were also concerned about the weight of the trucks Kinder Morgan would bring onto Otis and Sandisfield roads, the one million gallons of water the company plans to remove from Spectacle Pond to flush the line, and the prospect that Agostini’s decision could become a precedent-setting case upon which more pipelines will be approved.
Regarding the latter, Ireland said, “It’s not a binding precedent. That’s an important point for people to understand.”
Other residents looked at a bigger picture.
Williamstown resident Shira Wohlberg said that since the natural gas such pipelines propose to supply is of dubious necessity — an AG report saying as much about NED — then perhaps the federal law that permits interstate gas projects should be repealed, referring to the Natural Gas Act of 1938.
“It was created at a particular moment in history,” Wohlberg said. “Now is not that moment.”
Renewable energy sources, energy efficiency and conservation,and a better knowledge of the environmental harm caused by pollutants, necessitate a new approach, Wohlberg said.
“I’d like to see Massachusetts step up and help dismantle that law that really shouldn’t exist anymore, so we can move forward to the kind of future that we need,” Wohlberg said.
GE, on the other hand, was attacked as a “multi-billion dollar corporation that pays virtually no taxes and wants to save a few dollars here in the Berkshires” by scrimping on the cleanup of the contaminated Housatonic River.
Susan May of Lenox said the company’s PCB dump site near Allendale Elementary School and wishes to dump the additional waste at more local sites, “shows exactly what kind of commitment they have to the health and well-being of the residents here.”
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has strongly recommended against the local dumps, proposed for Lenox Dale, Lee and Great Barrington.
Another resident said GE’s recent headquarters move to Boston should become a factor in necessitating a more robust cleanup.
The AG employees present said they would take these and other GE concerns back to Boston.
GE previously entered into a consent agreement in 2000 to pay for PCB work around its former industrial facilities in Pittsfield, and a similar agreement now is being negotiated for cleanup of contamination in the Housatonic south of the city center. GE has objected to aspects of a plan approved by the EPA and could appeal to federal courts.
Other residents who attended the session sought ways to make residential solar easier and strongly advocated for a commuter rail to Boston.
The AG represents state residents on consumer issues surrounding water, electricity, gas and a wide array of other concerns.
EPA insists off-site disposal of PCB sediment is preferred option
By Heather Bellow
The Berkshire Edge
May 29, 2016
Boston — A status update issued Wednesday (May 25) by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the General Electric’s Company’s cleanup of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from the Housatonic River appears to have been distributed to clear up “incorrect” information in a “recent [newspaper] article.”
In a prepared statement EPA Public Affairs Specialist Kelsey O’Neil wrote that the article “mistakenly stated that GE was originally asked to remove almost three times the amount of soil it is responsible for today, but that EPA had compromised with GE to allow for a speedier cleanup.”
That wasn’t all that needed clearing up, O’Neil noted: “GE’s Corrective Measures Study evaluated alternatives for addressing the sediments and floodplains. That set of alternatives did include one alternative (out of eight, including a no action alternative) with three times the volume of material than proposed…EPA never asked/directed or indicated this was EPA’s preferred remedy in any document…”
A court-ordered Consent Decree is forcing GE to clean up the “Rest of River” from south of the company’s former electric transformer plant in Pittsfield to the Connecticut border. PCB-laced industrial waste was for decades discharged into the river from the plant and still continues to seep into it, polluting its sediment.
While some earlier EPA documents say PCBs are “probably human carcinogens,” the EPA now says “PCBs have been demonstrated to cause a wide variety of adverse health effects, including cancer. PCBs also cause serious non-cancer health effects in animals, including effects on the immune system, reproductive system, nervous system, endocrine system and other organs. Studies in humans provide supportive evidence for potential carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic effects of PCBs.”
In September 2015 the EPA issued its intended final cleanup decision, and GE entered dispute resolution in which it argued with the EPA over several of its decisions, including shipping the PCB sludge out of state to a facility that can handle it. Instead, GE is considering dumping the waste into three proposed Berkshire county sites.
Nothing appears to have changed with this reminder from O’Neil. Both the EPA and GE’s positions are “currently under review by an EPA decision maker,” she wrote. Beyond that, she added, “the next formal step in the Consent Decree is for EPA to issue a final cleanup decision.”
O’Neil wanted to further “correct any confusion regarding EPA’s position on disposal of PCBs,” something Berkshire County residents are keeping a close eye on.
“To reiterate,” she wrote, “the EPA’s recommendation for disposal of excavated material is for off-site disposal at an existing licensed facility. EPA’s recommendation has been consistent in all its proposals.” There are no such licensed disposal facilities in Massachusetts.
The EPA has proposed a “combination of different types of remediation, including specifically: excavation and backfill of an estimated 990,000 cubic yards of PCB-contaminated material;
Containment/capping of remaining PCBs; Monitored Natural Recovery where appropriate; use of a sediment amendment, such as activated carbon, to reduce mobility of PCBs.”
EPA Community Involvement Coordinator Jim Murphy told the Edge that O’Neil’s dispatch was “just a status update.”
For further information, check the EPA website at https://www.epa.gov/ge-housatonic
Elizabeth Kolbert to Receive Massachusetts Book Award in Nonfiction
Elizabeth Kolbert, winner of the 2015 Massachusetts Book Award for Nonfiction for “The Sixth Extinction,” will be honored on Thursday, June 9 at 2:00 p.m. at the David & Joyce Milne Public Library in Williamstown. Massachusetts Center for the Book is joining Representative Gailanne M. Cariddi (D-North Adams) to present the award at the ceremony, generously hosted by the Milne Library.
“The Sixth Extinction,” a Pulitzer Prize winner, National Book Critics Circle Award finalist, New York Times bestseller and among its “Ten Best Books of the Year,” is a sobering page-turner about how human beings have altered life on the planet.
Calling Kolbert “one of our very best science writers,” Al Gore wrote in his New York Times book review: “(The Sixth Extinction) is a clear and comprehensive history of earth’s previous mass extinctions – and the species we’ve lost – and an engaging description of the extraordinarily complex nature of life. Most important, Kolbert delivers a compelling call to action.”
A Williamstown resident, Kolbert is a staff writer about politics and the environment at The New Yorker and the Class of 1946 Environmental Fellow-in-Residence at Williams College. “Elizabeth Kolbert is a strong voice from the Commonwealth who has gained recognition around the world for her thought-provoking writing about one of the pressing issues of our time,” said Representative Cariddi. “I look forward to honoring her for this important work.”
The Massachusetts Book Awards, administered by Massachusetts Center for the Book, is the largest state book awards program in the country. They are awarded to compelling literary works in five categories published in the previous year by Massachusetts authors or about a subject of particular interest to the Commonwealth. The nationwide prominence of these awards is a reflection of the Bay State’s historically strong culture of writing and publishing.
The public is welcome to attend the ceremony on June 9. For more information, please visit http://milnelibrary.org/.
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Action Alert – Support Endangered Rattlesnake Recovery Plan
Please consider writing a letter in support of Timber Rattlesnake conservation in Massachusetts!
The plan to conserve Timber Rattlesnakes was developed by the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program in conjunction with scientists from UMass Amherst. This is a science-based recovery plan. Any questions of public safety were thoroughly vetted during state hearings. BEAT believes that recovery plans for endangered species should be developed by the appropriate scientists and ecologists and not stopped because of someone’s irrational phobia.The Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program should be allowed to follow its legislative mandate to protect all native species in the Commonwealth without further legislative interference.
Currently, there are proposed amendments to the State Budget Bill that would prevent establishing a new population of Timber Rattlesnakes on the island in Quabbin Reservior, and would also prevent re-introducing this endangered species at other historic sites. This sets a very bad, politically driven precedent for all future conservation efforts in Massachusetts.
Please contact Senator Eric Lesser and Senate President Stan Rosenberg’s and ask them to withdraw the budget amendment that stops the conservation of Timber Rattlesnakes. Allow Natural Heritage do its job and conserve the endangered Timber Rattlesnake.
Contact information:
Stan Rosenberg, Massachusetts Senate President, (413) 584-1649Stan.Rosenberg@masenate.gov 1 Prince St. Northampton MA 01060 Contact via web: http://www.stanrosenberg.com/contact-me
Senator Eric Lesser, (413) 526-6501eric.lesser@masenate.gov, 60 Shaker Rd, Unit 3B, East Longmeadow MA 01028
Here is a list of Conference Committee Members that will resolve differences between the House and Senate bills. This committee will decide whether the “rattlesnake amendment” stays or goes before the final bill goes to the governor.
Karen E. Spilka – Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov
Sal N. DiDomenico – Sal.DiDomenico@masenate.gov
Viriato Manuel deMacedo – Vinny.deMacedo@masenate.gov
Brian S. Dempsey – Brian.Dempsey@mahouse.gov
Stephen Kulik – Stephen.Kulik@mahouse.gov
Todd M. Smola – Todd.Smola@mahouse.gov
2016 Massachusetts Envirothon Winners Announced
Local teenagers were rewarded for their hard work and the environmental knowledge they gained in preparing for this year’s Massachusetts Envirothon, held on Thursday, May 12th at Hopkinton State Park, Hopkinton, Massachusetts. More than 250 high school students from over 30 Massachusetts communities gathered to compete in the 29th Annual Envirothon. Top honors went to a team of students from Newton North High School.
For the past school year, high school students across the Bay State have been studying soil, water, wildlife and forestry, as well as researching the role of human activity in the spread and control of invasive species as they participated in this environmental education program.
At the event, teams rotated through four “ecostations” where they answered written questions and engaged in hands-on activities such as soil analysis, wildlife habitat assessment, tree identification, and water quality measures. Each team can have up to 10 participants who split into specialized sub-teams during the competition, each focusing their efforts at different ecostations.
At the fifth station, the Current Issue, each team gave a 15-minute presentation on “Managing Invasive Species” to a panel of judges. Teams researched the Current Issue in their own community in preparation for their presentation. Judges included environmental professionals from government agencies, non-profit organizations, academia and private industry. Teams were asked to assess the effects of invasive species in their community and to recommend steps that their city or town and individuals, including young people, should take to address the issue.
“The Envirothon not only increases awareness of significant environmental issues, such as the spreading of invasive species, but most importantly, it engages and challenges young minds to think and prepare for possible solutions for future generations,” said Matthew Beaton, Secretary of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs.
“These teams work hard getting to know their local ecosystems and how their communities depend on them. We test their scientific knowledge, but we also like to hear their stories about how they have gotten muddy, cold, and tired, and otherwise had fun and fallen in love with nature in their neighborhood. The best hope for the future comes from engaged, scientifically literate citizens who care about their communities and the environment,” said Massachusetts Envirothon Steering Committee Chair Will Snyder of the University of Massachusetts Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment.
The 2016 Massachusetts Envirothon is made possible through the contributions of partnering agencies and organizations, including financial support from the 2014 Massachusetts Environmental Bond Bill, the U.S. Forest Service, the Massachusetts Grange, Environmental Business Council of New England, Wegman’s supermarkets and local conservation districts.
Fifteen federal and state environmental agencies, conservation districts, non-profit organizations, higher educational institutions, and businesses provide expertise and help organize the event. Dozens of volunteers will also be on hand on May 12th to handle all the event logistics from setting up tents, tables and chairs, checking-in teams, serving food, scoring tests and cleaning up.
For more information on the Massachusetts Envirothon and the list of winning teams in the overall competition, eco-stations, and current issue presentations, please visit www.massenvirothon.org
Jobs
Watershed Ecologist (Environmental Analyst IV) – Boston
Date of posting: 5/6/2016
Closing: The position will remain open until filled. However, first consideration will be given to those candidates that apply within the first 14 days.
The Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration is hiring!
The Watershed Ecologist provides overall leadership and administration of the Division of Ecological Restoration’s (DER) Flow Restoration Program and manages staff and fiscal resources to achieve Program goals. The position directs and oversees the priorities, strategic planning, resource allocation, scientific integrity, and overall operations of the Program and coordinates flow restoration activities within the Division. The position supervises staff scientists as well as interns, ensuring that their work is scientifically sound and supports DER strategic priorities. This position also serves as an advisor to state agency workgroups, commissions, and initiatives to inform science, policies, and regulations that impact in-stream flow and aquatic ecosystem protection and restoration. 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=1600025T
Mohawk Forest Environmental Education Internship,
North Adams
The Mohawk Forest summer internship places one to two interns with the Caleb Group at Mohawk Forest Apartments in North Adams to work with teen leaders and elementary school children. The teens are part of a teen leadership development and employment program and the youth are part of the summer day camp program. The intern(s) work under Kathy Keeser, the Resident Services and Program Coordinator at Mohawk Forest. The internship is for 35 hours/week, for eight-ten weeks during the summer (specific dates are flexible based on the intern’s and Resident Coordinator’s decision).
The intern(s) work with teen leaders to help them set up and implement neighborhood improvement projects, including:
• Access to healthy and local food, such as nutrition or cooking projects for day camp, community awareness of local resources like the farmer’s market and working with teen-generated ideas for further programming
• Trash/recycling: which might include addressing community efforts and awareness of keeping the community clean and beautified, encouraging and teaching recycling, which last year included a recycling rewards program. Last summer a compost bin was purchased and the teens worked with the youth to separate food scraps for the compost from trash at lunch. The compost will be used for the small youth community garden.
• Fitness: working with the teens to lead current efforts for getting families and kids out and active and to brainstorm new opportunities.
• Other Environmental Awareness or action projects that the teens and youth develop. Last year this included an energy conservation tip sheet that the teens researched, printed and distributed to all 190 apartments. The tip sheet was also sent to the Caleb Group’s head office for distribution to other Caleb Group housing sites.
The intern(s) will work with an older elementary school day camp group, assisted by the teen leaders to implement neighborhood improvement projects in the Mohawk Forest community. The intern(s) will also bring an environmental focus into the summer youth day camp program through experiential education including field trips, activity days and special events.
The internship is a great opportunity for those who are committed to education, community empowerment, and to developing leadership opportunities end environmental consciousness in the Berkshires.
Interns are eligible to apply for funding through the Center for Environmental Studies, which offers a stipend of $400/week and housing on campus. Internship is open to current freshmen.
If interested, please send a resume and brief cover letter to Julia Yarak: jly1@williams.edu
Confronting Climate Change Internships
On-campus summer emissions research positions
The 2016-17 academic year will focus on “Confronting Climate Change” (CCC) at Williams. As part of this CCC initiative we will be closely examining campus emissions and holding some exercises, such as the wedge game,* to demonstrate the options for the campus to meet its CO2 emissions reductions goals.
To this end, the Zilkha Center and the Center for Environmental Studies are hiring five summer research assistants to gather and analyze campus greenhouse gas emissions data and conduct background research for a climate-change related campus event in the next academic year.
The students will work as a team to determine the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction potential of a variety of strategies. Areas of research may include car, bus, and air transportation on college business, campus building hours and energy systems, renewable energy projects, conservation measures, and policies and practices to achieve reductions.
We are seeking students with a variety of skills but most importantly experience with data collection and analysis and an interest in primary research. We will provide training on the details of emissions calculations, but seek students with strong quantitative skills, experience with Excel, and an ability to work tenaciously to track down primary data. Applicants should have experience in visual displays of data (web/graphic design skills) and a general interest in climate change.
The work done by student researchers will be used to run events during the academic year in which groups of students, faculty and staff work together to consider combinations of strategies that can be used to achieve campus GHG emissions goals.
To: Apply:
1. Complete the online application form.https://ces.williams.edu/?page_id=7
Under “Title of Project” write “CCC Internship” and respond to each the questions below in 1 paragraph: 1) Describe your interest in campus GHG emissions and the College’s initiative to reduce emissions; 2) Explain how your experience qualifies you for this position; 3) What are your research preferences, based on the description above.
2. Submit an unofficial copy of your transcript to dlewis@williams.edu (Write CCC Internship Application” in subject line.)
3. Submit your resume to dlewis@williams.edu (Write CCC Internship Application in subject line.)
Application Deadline: March 10, 2016
*The Wedge Game is based on a 2004 paper by Rob Socolow, linked below. It is a game that demonstrates global GHG emissions in a visual way, and participants make choices about how to achieve reductions. We are planning to develop a campus version of the wedge game with campus data. Please see the paper here:https://www.princeton.edu/mae/people/faculty/socolow/Science-2004-SW-1100103-PAPER-AND-SOM.pdf
Summer 2016 Internship, Eagle Eye Institute,
MountainStar Forest, Peru, MA
This is more than an internship; it is a transformational learning opportunity!
Title: Residential Land Management Intern
Positions Available: 2
Background: Eagle Eye Institute is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization based in
Peru, MA, committed to engaging underserved urban youth with the environment
through hands-on exploratory learning, stewardship, and career bridging
programs. This internship program takes place at MountainStar Forest, a 200+
acre forest training site in Peru, MA, just 30 miles west of Northampton, MA. The
mission of the site is to protect the spirit of this forest and to conserve and
enhance its beauty and health by engaging people of all ages and cultural
backgrounds in its stewardship, so that future generations of all life can flourish.
Description: As an intern, you will live on the land for six weeks and connect
with nature, others, and yourself in an immersive outdoor setting. Housing will be
provided in private Eureka Equinox 6 standup tents, each on its own tent
platform. You will live off the grid without electronic devices, participate in food
preparation (all food is vegan and will be provided), learn about energy and water
conservation while living outdoors, help grow organic vegetables, and deepen
your overall relationship with nature. You will gain hands-on experience in land
management, including but not limited to, tree, shrub, and flower planting,
mowing and weed whacking, trail building and repair, forest management and
firewood production, brush cleanup, vegetable gardening, and traditional and
alternative building construction. You will also have the opportunity to assist with
Eagle Eye Institute overnight programs for youth held at the land over the
summer. This will include camp setup, food prep, and overall logistics. In
addition, you may keep a daily journal of your experiences, share your personal
story, and participate in daily morning meditation and exercise.
Melinda Stockmann, former MountainStar Forest intern, says:
“So, I think what I’ll tell other people is that this is a really good chance to …well,
not to be too clichéd… but to connect with yourself and with others and with
nature… and to just really get back to the basics…Coming out here for six weeks
you get to really just be. And work. And appreciate work. And appreciate play
and appreciate the food you eat. And just think about what you want to be and
what you want to do and what you are doing and what you are being. And that’s
really an opportunity that a lot of folks don’t get…It’s challenging… especially if
you’re used to being in a routine and having constant stimulation in different
ways…You have to be committed to the opportunity for what it is…I think it’s
definitely worth it and it pays off on a lot of different levels…Outdoor living is fun!”
We are looking for the right individuals with the following qualities:
• Hard-working
• Positive attitude
• Willingness to learn with an open mind
• Sense of humor
• Sense of cooperation
• Experience and commitment to working with diverse people, especially
urban youth of color
• Trustworthiness
• Ability to work independently and with a team
• Good communicator
• A leader who can take initiative
Qualifications:
• Current college/university student
• Good physical condition
• Knowledge of and interest in the environment
• Camping and outdoor living experience
• Use of basic hand tools: shovel, rake, mower, weedwacker, etc.
• Some carpentry skills
Additional Qualifications:
• Must have own transportation to and from the site.
• We prefer that interns have an additional living situation within
commuting distance, for weekends and days off.
• Flexibility with days and hours.
Timeline: Six weeks, approx. July 6 – August 17, 2016 (exact dates TBD).
Schedule: 40 hours per week, flexible based on weather and work to be
accomplished any given day or week.
Compensation: Room (camping) and board.
How to Apply:
Submit a resume, two character references, and a letter stating why you are
interested, why you are the best person for this internship, what skills you have to
contribute, and what you would like to learn from this experience. How do you
see this internship helping you in your own personal development?
SEEKING DIVERSE APPLICANTS
Contact: Anthony Sanchez, Board President, Eagle Eye Institute
MountainStar Forest Manager
(413) 655-0103
asanchez@eagleeyei.org
Seasonal Outdoor Educator –
Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center, Grafton, NY
Experience needed: Experience working with children in the outdoors required. Some experience in outdoor recreation preferred. Education required: Bachelor’s degree in Natural Sciences or Education.
Job Requirements: Must be able to perform physical work in the outdoors, be able to work some weekends and evenings and possess a valid driver’s license.
To apply: Please send resume and Rensselaer County application (available at www.rensco.com) to: Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center, 475 Dyken Pond Road, Cropseyille, New York 12052 or contact Lisa Hoyt at 518 658-2055 ordykenpond@gmail.com. Applications accepted until position is filled.
Visit our website for more information about our summer camp and programs at:http://www.dykenpond.org
Dyken Pond
Environmental Education Center
475 Dyken Pond Road
Cropseyville, New York 12052
518 658-2055
Assistant Director, Summer Camp –
Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center, Grafton, NY
Job Description: Assistant Director has on-site responsibility for daily camp operations including basic administrative tasks, teaching environmental education programs to youth ages 6 – 13, and supervising other staff. In addition, the Assistant Director will assist in other environmental education programs before camp starts. This position is assigned a wide variety of tasks and duties that must be performed to insure the efficient operation of the camp program. Experience needed: College degree required in natural history subject area or education. Must be 21 years old and hold a valid NYS drivers license. Experience working with elementary aged children in the outdoors required.
For more information on seasonal positions, please contact Lisa Hoyt at 518 658-2055 ordykenpond@gmail.com. To apply, please download a Renssealer County application from www.rensco.com (click on Employment) and return completed application and resume to: Lisa Hoyt, Dyken Pond Center, 475 Dyken Pond Road, Cropseyville, NY 12052
Greenagers Summer Jobs
Greenagers employs 50 youth each year for work on local trails and farms, through our trail crews (3 in Berkshire County and 2 in Columbia County) and our Farm Apprenticeships. Click here to find out more information and apply online.
Applications for trail crew positions are due on May 1st.
Trail Crews consist of 6-8 youth aged 15-19 and one skilled leader with a minimum of 3 years field experience. Our 2016 Trail Crew options are: Appalachian Trail Crew, Berkshire County Community Crews, and Columbia Land Conservancy Trail Crews.
Our 2016 Trail Partners to date are: National Park Service, Columbia Land Conservancy, Berkshire Natural Resources Council, Great Barrington Land Conservancy, Housatonic River Walk, Laurel Hill Association, The Nature Conservancy, Chesterwood, Egremont Land Trust, Sheffield, Land Trust, Hancock Shaker Village, and Town of Egremont. Please contact Elia Del Molino, Trails Coordinator, for further information.
Agricultural Apprentices are matched with area farms, from whom they learn about machinery operation, animal husbandry, organic farming and the business of agriculture. Past apprentices have been placed at Woven Roots Farm, Howden Farm, Farm Girl Farm, Plantin’ Seeds, Sky View Farm, Larkin Farm, Ward’s Farm, Project Native, Wolfe Spring Farm, Mountain Falls Farm, The Sheffield Food Program, and here at Greenagers (to name a few). New farm partners this year include: Hosta Hill, North Plain Farm, Equinox Farm, Camp Eisner, and Undermountain Elementary School Gardens. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Please contact Matt Downing, Agricultural Program Coordinator, for further information.
We are very grateful for the financial support of: Berkshire United Way; Robbins-de Beaumont Foundation; and the Green Pastures, Berkshire Hills Fund for Excellence, and Berkshire Environmental Endowment funds at Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation.
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Landscape Design Assistant, Garden Installation Manager & Crew, Fine Garden Maintenance Crew – Helia Native Nursery & Land Design
We specialize in Native Plants, Ecological Landscape Design, Wildflower Meadows, Site Restoration, Edible and Fine Gardens. We are expanding and currently have full time openings in the following positions:
Landscape Design Assistant – The right candidate will have a strong background, full knowledge and experience in site surveying, base mapping and design, autoCAD and SketchUP, with a good knowledge of plants, especially natives. You must be energetic, hardworking, physically fit and a positive team-oriented person.
Installation Manager & Crew – We are looking for full time, energetic, hardworking, physically fit, positive, and team-oriented people to join our landscape installation team and manage installation jobs. Experience with native plants, garden installation, small machinery, stone work and maintenance is preferred.
Garden Maintenance Crew – Come join our full time fine garden maintenance team. We are looking for energetic, hardworking, physically fit, positive, and team-oriented people to join our team.
Please call 413-274-1400 to apply or email your resume to helialanddesign@gmail.com.
Seasonal Ranger I (West)–(1600026F)
DescriptionAbout the Department of Conservation and Recreation: The Department of Conservation and Recreation manages one of the largest and most diverse state parks systems in the nation and protects and enhances natural resources and outdoor recreational opportunities throughout Massachusetts. DCR is a dynamic agency, and is one of the largest park systems in the nation. The DCR system includes over 450,000 acres of parks, forests, water supply protection lands, beaches, lakes, ponds, playgrounds, swimming pools, skating rinks, trails and parkways. The Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks qualified applicants for the position Seasonal Ranger I. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation is seeking Park Rangers to patrol facilities to promote compliance with rules and regulations, protect natural and park resources, and enhance visitor experience through providing a presence and being available for visitor information; coordinate with law enforcement officials for appropriate regulatory action; and perform related work as required. Park Rangers normally work a forty-hour week (which includes nights, weekends, and holidays). April-early June will be Monday-Friday day shift. Mid June to August will require include week-end days and may include some evening shifts. Uniforms and training are provided; park housing is not. Successful candidates must attend the Seasonal Ranger Academy.Conducts patrols, either in a vehicle, on a bicycle or on foot, effectively utilizing techniques and available resources, to enforce applicable laws and regulations, provide visitor services, assess facility resources, assist visitors with first aid, and other public services as required.Perform the crossing of school-aged pedestrians on DCR roadways twice daily in accordance with the school’s schedule.Maintain an inventory of and maintain the condition of issued equipment.Complete Bureau records, reports, files, and logs.
Attend seminars, workshops, training sessions, etc., in order to maintain proficiencies.Participates in search and rescue operations in accordance with agency policy.Provide informal and, occasionally, formal information/educational programs, demonstrations, and materials for schools and civic groups as requires, in areas such as Ranger programs, park activities and services, outdoor skills, natural and cultural history and search and rescue.Respond and assist park staff at major incidents, assist at special events, and occasionally assist at statewide incidents or functions.Position Information: Seasonal Ranger I (00137682)Location: Mohawk Trail State Forest Complex, CharlemontStart Date: 4/24/16End Date: 11/5/16Position Information: Seasonal Ranger I (00182451)Location: Tolland State Forest Complex, OtisStart Date: 4/24/16End Date: 11/5/16Position Information: Seasonal Ranger I (00137661)Location: Moore House, AmherstStart Date: 4/24/16End Date: 12/30/16Preferred Qualifications:Knowledge of the standard procedures and techniques followed in foot, auto or other types of patrols.
Knowledge of the principles and practices of park or resource management.
Knowledge of the principles and practices of recreational programming.
Knowledge of general ecology and cultural history study, practice and principles.
Knowledge of the methods and techniques for presenting media productions, and drafting brochures and exhibits.
Ability to understand, explain and apply the rules, regulations, policies, procedures standards and guidelines governing assigned unit activities.
Ability to communicate effectively in oral expression.
Ability to give written and oral instructions in a precise, understandable manner.
Ability to speak effectively before the public
Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to gather information by examining records and documents and through observing and interviewing individuals.
Ability to accurately record information provided orally.
Minimum Entrance Requirements: Applicants must have at least (A) two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time experience in park or resource management, environmental education, water resources or water supply management, or natural/cultural history interpretation or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.
1. Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts motor vehicle operator’s license.
2. Possession of a current and valid CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation) certificate from the American Red Cross or the American heart Association.
3. Possession of a current and valid standard first aid and personal safety certificate and first responder certificate issued by the American Red Cross.An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Official Title: Ranger IWork Locations: Pittsfield – 740 South Street 01201Primary Location: United States-Massachusetts-Pittsfield-Pittsfield – 740 South StreetJob: Community and Social ServicesAgency: Department of Conservation & Recreation
Schedule: Full-timeShift: MultipleJob Posting: Mar 21, 2016, 12:43:07 PMNumber of Openings: 3Salary: 1,429.24 BiweeklyIf you have Diversity, Affirmative Action or Equal Employment Opportunity questions or need a Reasonable Accommodation, please contact Diversity Officer / ADA Coordinator:: Agatha Summons-Maguire – 617-626-1282Bargaining Unit: 02-AFSCME – Service/Institutional
Seasonal Forest And Park Supervisor III (West) – (160001XB)
DescriptionAbout the Department of Conservation and Recreation: The Department of Conservation and Recreation manages one of the largest and most diverse state parks systems in the nation and protects and enhances natural resources and outdoor recreational opportunities throughout Massachusetts. DCR is a dynamic agency, and is one of the largest park systems in the nation. The DCR system includes over 450,000 acres of parks, forests, water supply protection lands, beaches, lakes, ponds, playgrounds, swimming pools, skating rinks, trails and parkways.The Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks qualified applicants for the position of Seasonal Forest & Park Supervisor III. The Seasonal Forest & Park Supervisor is responsible for supervising the maintenance and operations of parks, recreation areas, parkways, roadways, pedestrian ways and parking lots for public use. The incumbent of this position determines work priorities and resources, assigns and supervises staff, compiles and reviews data concerning park maintenance effectiveness and provides reports of all activities and incidents.SPECIFC DUTIES:
Supervises the maintenance of assigned recreational areas, including such activities as roadway and parkway maintenance, grounds maintenance, building and equipment maintenance and the repair and/or removal of hazardous conditions such as unsafe trees or limbs. Determines manpower and equipment resources necessary to accomplish assigned tasks.Maintains records and prepares reports concerning assigned work to provide information and make appropriate recommendations.Coordinates the activities and work of volunteers, court-referred individuals, etc.May prepares budgets for assigned areas by projecting resource needs and preparing required documentation for agency’s budget request.Monitors the activities involved in park and roadways maintenance work.Compiles and reviews data concerning effectiveness of park maintenance activities to prepare reports for supervisorProvides on-the-job training for new employees.Prepares reports as required; maintains records and logs on such matters as time and attendance of assigned personnel; performs routine vehicle maintenance inspections; and operates motor vehicles and other park machinery and equipment as required.Inspects damage to park areas, roadways, parking lots, equipment, etc. as a result of storms, vandalism and accidents to estimate the cost of labor and materials required for repairs and/or replacementsDetermines work priorities and assigns staff to specific tasks such as spraying, watering, planting trees, cleaning catch basins, trash removal, etc.Performs related work as assigned. Ability to work in a team setting. Ability to exercise sound judgment. Required to work outdoors in all types of weather. Work varied shifts and/or irregular hours; and stand for prolonged periods of time.POSITION INFORMATION: Position: Seasonal Forest & Park Supervisor III
Location: Pittsfield State Forest, Pittsfield
Start Date: 5/1/16
End Date: 11/12/16Salaries are based upon full-time/40 hours worked per week. Work schedules and days off are at the discretion of the Supervisor. This position may require working weekends and/or holidays.Qualifications
This requisition will remain open until filled; however, first consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must have at least (A) four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, technical or professional experience in the field of forestry, parks or recreational management and (B) of which at least two years must have been in a supervisory capacity, or (C) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.
Substitutions:
I. An Associate’s or higher degree with a major in forestry, natural resources management or parks and/or recreation management may be substituted for a maximum of two years of the required (A) experience.*
*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.
NOTE: No substitutions will be permitted for the required (B) experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Based on assignment, possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Official Title: Forest And Park Supervisor III Work Locations: Pittsfield-Cascade Street 012010000 Primary Location: United States-Massachusetts-Pittsfield-Pittsfield-Cascade StreetJob: Community and Social ServicesAgency: Department of Conservation & RecreationSchedule: Full-timeShift: MultipleJob Posting: Mar 11, 2016, 12:18:15 PMNumber of Openings: 1Salary: 1,758.24 BiweeklyIf you have Diversity, Affirmative Action or Equal Employment Opportunity questions or need a Reasonable Accommodation, please contact Diversity Officer / ADA Coordinator:: Agatha Summons-Maguire – 617-626-1282Bargaining Unit: 02-AFSCME – Service/Institutional
Summer Internships – Williams College
Summer Internships on Campus, Berkshire area & U.S. – Also: Summer Internship Funding: Check out dozens of campus and local environmental internships, all eligible for summer funding: Campus Emissions Research, Hopkins Forest Caretakers, Environmental Education, Sheep Hill environmental education, Farm Market/Ag research, Clark Art landscape internship, Environmental Analysis Lab, Hoosic River Watershed Association, Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, and more…http://ces.williams.edu/category/summer-jobs/National/Global Summer Internships: Dozens of enviro internships and research positions in the US, many developed specifically by CES alumnae for Williams students HERECES Summer Funding for internships and research information and application form here.Deadline: March 10 (second deadline: April 8).Position required to apply for funding.
Camp Counselors – Pleasant Valley
Pleasant Valley Nature Camp is celebrating its’ 67 th year. We are seeking caring, committed, and enthusiastic staff to lead campers for their best summer ever! Our counselors:
- Plan, develop and implement a variety of outdoor activities utilizing Pleasant Valley’s 1300+ acres of forests, fields, streams and ponds;
- Are responsible for supervising the health and safety of campers;
- Maintain communication with parents and other staff;
- Must be able to work and learn together, have outstanding communication skills, and be willing and able to share their interests and talents with children aged 5-14;
- Provide leadership and mentor Leaders in Training (LITs).
Qualifications
- Must be at least 18 years old;
- College experience preferred;
- Should have knowledge and interest in the nature of the Berkshire region;
- Applicants with a background in Environmental fields, education, or the arts are strongly encouraged to apply;
- Experience working with children;
- Willingness to obtain certification in CPR/First Aid are required-training is provided;
- Some positions also require lifeguard/water safety certifications;
- Successful candidates will pass a background records check (CORI and SORI);
- And…of course, flexibility and a sense of humor is a must!
Compensation and Benefits
Rate of Pay: $10.00- $12.00 per hour – depending on experience and position.
Additional Comments
Camp Session: June 9 – August 19 Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 3:30 pm or 8:30 am – 4:00 pm.
Camp Counselors are required to work at least one camp overnight during the summer.
How to Apply
Please send (email preferred) your cover letter and resume to:
Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
472 West Mountain Road
Lenox, MA. 01240
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