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As airport continues permit quest, threat from lead in plane fuel causes concern

There was a new twist last night in Berkshire Aviation’s continued quest for a special permit for Walter J. Koladza Airport: concern over the use and sale of leaded aviation fuel. It was the third evening that airport neighbors, abutters and pilots packed the meeting room and lined up to speak to the Selectboard about a proposal to build three new hangars to store aircraft that are now tied down outside and the possibility of other future changes made possible if the board grants this special permit to bring the airport into zoning compliance. But on this evening, neighbor James Webber brought up something else: the sale and use of avgas (aviation gasoline) at Koladza, something he noted is now only used by small aircraft and banned from all other forms of transportation. By Heather Bellow, The Berkshire Edge, February 28, 2017. <more>

AG Healey Joins Coalition of Attorneys General Opposing President Trump’s Executive Order that Guts Clean Water Protections

Attorney General Maura Healey February 28th joined attorneys general and chief legal officers from New York, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Oregon and Vermont in releasing the below statement opposing President Trump’s executive order which the President described as paving the way to eliminating the Clean Water Rule (also known as the Waters of the United States Rule): “We strongly oppose President Trump’s executive order that undermines Clean Water Act protections and the public health and environment of our states. The President’s order runs counter to the Clean Water Act’s, and the EPA’s, purpose — achieving clean water. Press Release, February 28, 2017 <more>

DCR Announces Public Meetings for Forest Management Projects in Florida, Peru, Dubuque, Warwick, Otter River and Townsend State Forests

The Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) Bureau of Forestry will be hosting public meetings to discuss eight forest management projects on March 14, 15, and 16, 2017. State forests to be discussed are Townsend State Forest, F.G. Hills State Forest, Otter River State Forest, Warwick State Forest, Florida State Forest, Peru State Forest, and Dubuque State Forest. <more>

Massachusetts named best state by U.S. News & World Report

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has been named the best overall state in U.S. News & World Report’s inaugural report. This best state ranking evaluates all 50 states in various categories, with Massachusetts ranked the No. 1 overall state, No. 1 in health care, No. 2 in education and among the top 10 for economy and crime and corrections. Massachusetts was recognized for having the most accessible health care and is ranked third for Pre-K through 12th grade education. The Berkshire Edge, March 2, 2017. <more>

In his February report to the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen, DFW Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden announced that in response to increased and unauthorized trail development activities as well as requests for new trails on its lands, the Fisheries & Wildlife Board approved a Wildlife Lands Policy and a Walking Trails Policy in August 2016. Together these policies support MassWildlife’s statutory mission of conserving wildlife habitat and providing wildlife-related recreation. The Berkshire Eagle, February 18, 2017 <more>

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Jobs

Stream and Pond Sampling Volunteers Needed – Acid Rain Monitoring Project – Various sites

Entry Level Solar Technician – BPVS, Berkshire Photovoltaic Services – Adams, MA

Experienced Solar Technician – BPVS, Berkshire Photovoltaic Services – Adams, MA

Advocacy Center Director – Conservation Law FoundationBoston

Recruitment Director – The Public Interest Network – Boston

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


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Jobs

Stream and Pond Sampling Volunteers Needed – Acid Rain Monitoring Project – Various sites

The Acid Rain Monitoring Project is seeking volunteers to sample streams and ponds across Massachusetts. Currently, we have over 80% of the 150 sites covered, but we still need volunteers at 24 sites. Most of these sites are southwest of Boston from Quincy down through Attleboro, Taunton, Fall River, and Westport. There are also two sites available near Pittsfield. To view all of the available sites, please see the map on our website that indicates which sites still need volunteers:
https://wrrc.umass.edu/research/projects/acid-rain-monitoring-project/information-volunteers

Please contact Travis Drury, below, if you are interested in sampling these sites on Sunday, April 2nd. Also, please forward this email to anyone in those areas who may be interested in volunteering for this project.

Thank you,
Travis Drury, ARM Statewide Coordinator
Mass. Water Resources Research Center
203 Ag Engineering Building
250 Natural Resources Rd
Amherst, MA 01003
413-545-5979 or tdrury@umass.edu

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Entry Level Solar Technician
BPVS, Berkshire Photovoltaic Services
– Adams, MA

BPVS, Berkshire Photovoltaic Services, Inc is seeking a full time entry level solar technician. Minimum requirements are a High School Diploma, valid drivers license, ability to work on roofs and lift 50 pounds. Vocational education, carpentry or roofing experience and OSHA certification is a plus. Candidate should be a self starter and demonstrate an eagerness to learn. Competitive compensation and excellent benefits offered.

Please send resume & cover letter to Becca Martin at Becca@bpvs.com.

BPVS, Berkshire Photovoltaic Services, Inc
46 Howland Ave
Adams, MA 01220
HIC MA 131996
Tel.: 413-743-0152
Fax: 413-743-4827

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Experienced Solar Technician
BPVS, Berkshire Photovoltaic Services – Adams, MA

BPVS, Berkshire Photovoltaic Services, Inc is seeking a full time experienced solar technician. Minimum requirements are a High School Diploma, valid drivers license, 1 year experience in solar design and installation is required. NABCEP certification and a valid Massachusetts Construction Supervisors License is a plus. Competitive compensation based on experience and excellent benefits.

Please send resume & cover letter to Becca Martin at Becca@bpvs.com.

BPVS, Berkshire Photovoltaic Services, Inc
46 Howland Ave
Adams, MA 01220
HIC MA 131996
Tel.: 413-743-0152
Fax: 413-743-4827

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Advocacy Center Director – Conservation Law Foundation –
Boston MA

Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) is seeking an experienced and innovative advocate on energy and the environment to lead its Massachusetts Advocacy Center, the largest of its five Advocacy Centers in New England. Working with the President, the Executive Vice President, and CLF senior staff, the Massachusetts Advocacy Center Director (ACD) will be responsible for developing and implementing an advocacy program for Massachusetts with the potential to impact law and policy throughout New England and nationally. Responsibilities include managing the Massachusetts Advocacy Center staff, working with the Massachusetts Advisory Board, and establishing and deepening relationships with members, partner organizations, businesses, government agencies, supporters, media, and the public.

This position is based in CLF’s Boston, Massachusetts office.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will be:

 A highly motivated individual with 7 or more years of advocacy experience in environment, energy, or related public interest fields.

 Able to devise effective strategies for achieving advocacy goals and objectives;

 Able to coordinate among diverse partners and understand how advocacy campaigns function;

 Experienced in law, policy and politics at the federal, state, and local levels;

 Able to take complicated issues and communicate them in a way that is accessible to new audiences

Experienced writing blogs and opinion pieces, and using social media platforms for advocacy and social change;

 Able to create and implement strategic advocacy campaigns;

 Experienced as a media spokesperson (print and broadcast);

 Experienced in fundraising including identifying prospects and cultivating major donors and grant funders;

 An individual possessing excellent interpersonal and organizational skills, having respect for a diversity of opinions, and able to work effectively in a fast-paced environment;

 Accustomed to articulating and meeting measurable goals; and

 Experienced managing an operating budget and professional staff.

Responsibilities

The Massachusetts ACD:

 Manages the Massachusetts Advocacy Center and reports directly to the President and the Executive Vice President (EVP);

 Works with program directors (PDs), the managing director of CLF Ventures and the EVP, to develop and implement advocacy goals and strategies in the state;

 Serves as the hiring manager for, supervises and mentors staff advocates, legal assistants, legal interns and fellows, office managers and volunteers in her/his state, in coordination with PDs where appropriate;

 Works closely with senior staff colleagues and CLF constituencies to develop and execute fundraising strategies in her/his state, manage operations and expenses of her/his state office and develop and execute media strategy in the state;

 Manages and works closely with the CLF Massachusetts Advisory Board to maximize relevance, visibility and effectiveness of advocacy in Massachusetts, and to develop and execute fundraising strategies;

 Represents CLF at the Massachusetts state legislature, in legal and regulatory proceedings at the state and federal level, at public forums, media events and conferences;

 Develops, directs and stewards relationships with relevant NGOs, government agencies, political and legislative representatives, the business community and other stakeholders in her/his state;

 Manages the Massachusetts office, including its operating budget, administrative matters, a staff of professionals, and an office manager;

 Collaborates with other CLF staff at all levels on interdisciplinary matters; and

 Contributes to the strategic direction and stewardship of the organization throughout the region.

Experience in a nonprofit public interest advocacy setting is highly desirable. A law degree and litigation experience at the state court, federal district court, and/or appellate court levels are preferred, but would not be required for an appropriate candidate.

Salary and Benefits

CLF offers a competitive salary, an extensive benefits plan, and an open, inclusive and accepting work environment where differences are highly respected.

To Apply

Send your resume titled “your last name-first initial-resume” (e.g. “SMITH J RESUME”) and a detailed cover letter titled “your last name-first initial-cover” (e.g. “SMITH J COVER”) to careers@clf.org. Please make “MA ACD” the subject of your e-mail. No phone calls please.

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Recruitment Director at The Public Interest Network

We have organizers currently work in 25 states working with national campaigns to get our country to 100 percent renewable energy, ban the use of bee-killing pesticides, and end the overuse of antibiotics on factory farms.

Right now, we’re looking for a Recruitment director to help leverage our strong field presence, team of 30+ staff and our track record of results to help identify and hire our next leaders.

WHAT YOU’LL DO WITH IMPACT
The Recruitment Director is responsible for recruiting talented entry-level staff to run campaigns on some of our country’s biggest issues. Specific responsibilities include:

Recruitment strategy: The Recruitment Director works with staff across the country to coordinate messaging and carry out comprehensive plans to meet our overall staffing goals.
Candidate outreach: The Recruitment Director identifies top potential candidates, conducts interviews and makes hiring decisions.
Networking: The Recruitment Director develops strategic relationships with partner organizations, universities and serves as the public face for our recruitment efforts at conferences, career panels and job forums.
Tracking and data analysis: The Recruitment Director oversees our tracking and data analysis to identify trends and opportunities.
Operations management: The Recruitment Director oversees daily operations of the department, including creating and managing the department’s budget and overseeing systems and candidate communications.
During the summer, you’ll run a canvass office, building the organization by canvassing and training others to canvass.

PAY AND BENEFITS
Target annual compensation for this position is commensurate with the relevant professional experience and/or advanced degrees that a candidate has. We value experience with project management, networking and running grassroots campaigns. Impact offers a competitive benefits package.

LOCATIONS
Denver CO, Boston MA, or Washington DC

TO APPLY
http://bit.ly/2kGkuNm

APPLY by March 1, 2017

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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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