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.
Judge allows Tennessee Gas access in Sandisfield, but stays order until July 29
Field Notes: Old, reliable neighbors
The first turtles evolved over 250 million years ago during the Permian period of the Paleozoic era. Don’t worry if you don’t remember that time: we humans did not exist yet. The Permian was back in the days before any birds or mammals were present and even before dinosaurs came on the scene. By about 200 million years ago, turtles took on a shape and form that has essentially remained unchanged to this day, despite the mass extinctions and branching of new life forms going on around them. Through the Mesozoic and Cenozoic eras they marched, slowly and steadily. The Berkshire Edge/Environment, May 2, 2016.
San Francisco Becomes First Major City to Require Solar Panels on New Buildings
The Bison Is Now the Official Mammal of the United States
One of North America’s most steadfast species is getting its due. After years of campaigning by conservationists, President Obama just signed the National Bison Legacy Act into law, making the North American Bison the official mammal of the United States, USA TODAY‘s Gregory Korte reports.
Jobs
Watershed Ecologist (Environmental Analyst IV) – Boston
Hoosic River Revival Summer 2016 Intern Position – North Adams
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
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
EDGE CAST VIDEO: The Sandisfield pipeline:
This story isn’t over
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Judge allows Tennessee Gas access in Sandisfield, but stays order until July 29
Judge John A. Agostini’s 21-page ruling comes on a request from Tennessee Gas for injunctions to access the land for tree cutting and other aspects of the project, which in March won Federal Energy Regulatory Commission approval.
The company’s motion was opposed during a hearing in April by the state Attorney General’s Office, which argued that Article 97 of the Massachusetts Constitution prohibits such use of protected conservation land without a two-thirds vote of the state Legislature.
Both sides said later Monday they are reviewing the decision and considering possible further legal steps.
Agostini sided with attorneys representing Tennessee Gas that federal legislation allows natural gas companies right-of-way authority to land for projects to ensure an adequate supply of gas. The FERC approval, he wrote, also is evidence that the federal regulatory agency has determined the project “advances the public interest.”
The judge also stayed the injunction until July 29 to allow the Legislature an opportunity to bring the issue of use of the conservation land to a vote. He also noted that Tennessee Gas still lacks final environmental state and federal permits needed to work at the site, and could not proceed regardless until those are obtained.
The issues raised could be appealed further. A statement released by Chloe Gotsis, a spokeswoman for the Attorney General’s Office, said, “We are disappointed in Judge Agostini’s decision to grant Kinder Morgan’s request for a preliminary injunction. We are pleased, however, that the judge stayed his order until July 29, recognizing the critical role of our state Legislature in determining the status of conservation land and allowing it the time to act. We are reviewing today’s decision and considering our options moving forward.”
Kinder Morgan is the parent firm of Tennessee Gas Pipeline.
The company plans its 13-mile Connecticut Expansion Project project near existing gas lines to include three pipeline loops to increase capacity, involving four miles in Sandisfield.
The project is separate from the larger $5 billion Northeast Energy Direct gas line project the company had proposed to extend a new line across Massachusetts, which has been suspended.
A statement issued by Kinder Morgan on Monday evening said, “Tennessee Gas Pipeline appreciates the care and attention taken by the Massachusetts Superior Court to review this matter. We are pleased that the court applied the ample legal authorities which allow access to and use of property necessary to build an interstate pipeline project approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. We are continuing to review the decision and will consider our options, and we look forward to working cooperatively with stakeholders involved in this project.”
State Rep. William “Smitty” Pignatelli, D-Lenox, a staunch opponent of the project, said the decision seems to indicate that, even if the Legislature votes to deny the gas company permission to do the work, the federal approvals would supercede the state’s decision.
However, Pignatelli said he and state Rep. Steve Kulik, D-Worthington, with whom he has worked on the gas project issues, favor a vote in the Legislature against allowing work in the state forest.
He said he will first seek legal guidance from the AG’s office, but believes, “the Legislature should at least act on it. We should go on record as a legislative body.”
Such a vote could be supportive of the state’s position if the matter is appealed to a higher court, Pignatelli said, adding, “I am not ready to give up.”
In addition, he said, the gas line expansion will benefit utility customers in Connecticut, not customers in Massachusetts. “If this expansion is so important to Kinder Morgan, give it to Connecticut,” he said.
Jane Winn, executive director of the Berkshire Environmental Action Team, said after the ruling was filed, “We are extremely disappointed that the judge didn’t stand up and protect our most important places to protect.”
She said, “Article 97 should not be overridden. There is no reason they could not have gone around [the conservation area].”
Winn said she hopes the decision will be appealed to the state Supreme Judicial Court and overturned. She said she also has hope that Tennessee Gas will not be able to meet a Nov. 1 deadline it has cited for finishing the project to supply natural gas to customers.
“I hope they drop that portion,” she said, adding that the entire expansion project should be moved to Connecticut.
In his decision, Agostini, while upholding the company’s right to access the site for the project, added, “Despite the pre-emption of Article 97, the [FERC] certificate does not give Tennessee an unrestrained right to ignore the commonwealth. Instead, the certificate expressly requires Tennessee to make a good faith, reasonable effort to ‘cooperate with state and local agencies regarding the location of pipeline facilities, environmental mitigation measures, and construction procedures.”
During the April hearing before Agostini at Berkshire Superior Court, attorney James Messenger, representing Tennessee Gas, laid out their arguments on the injunction and eminent domain requests. He asserted that the 1938 U.S. Natural Gas Pipeline Act and subsequent court rulings based on the act allow federal project approvals to trump state restrictions.
In this case, he said, the interstate pipeline expansion project received FERC approval on March 11 after an extensive review process. He argued that such actions as eminent domain takings have been upheld in court cases even before all project permits were in hand, such as for tree-cutting, as will be required around the pipeline route in Sandisfield.
In similar cases, Messenger argued, “every court has granted immediate possession” of the land to the company. He added that “all the arguments [being made by the state] have been tried before and rejected,” saying that “they are doing everything they can to delay a federally anticipated project.”
Representing the state at the hearing, Assistant Attorney General Matthew Ireland argued that the issue involving Article 97 and the constitutional conservation protections raises questions not addressed previously concerning the Natural Gas Act. He added that Article 97 does not, like other state restrictions, attempt a “blanket prohibition” of gas line projects.
Nothing in the federal act specifically pre-empts such environmental protections, Ireland said, adding the Massachusetts provision is unique.
And he argued that in terms of fairness and reason, the Legislature should have an opportunity through the end of the legislative session in July to vote on whether to grant an easement as allowed under Article 97.
FIELD NOTES: Old, reliable neighbors
The Berkshire Edge/Environment
May 2, 2016
Despite a time-tested, successful design, the turtle’s armored structure is no match for today’s threats. Turtle shells do not protect against habitat loss, degradation, or fragmentation. Nor do they stand up to cars and trucks, to the machinery that we have invented to help us live fast and furiously. Their fable is being re-written.
Ineffectual armor might be fine if turtles bred like rats, but their strategy is entirely different. Their reproductive output is low – very low, relative to other vertebrates – and this is compensated for by their long life spans. Over the course of several decades, a turtle has many chances to successfully replace itself in its population.
Hatchling and yearling turtles have soft, bite-sized shells, a far cry from the protective armor they will adopt if they reach adulthood. When they do reach adulthood, if the protective armor is no longer enough, we have a problem. Of the 10 species native to Massachusetts (not including sea turtles), six are considered rare and even the not-so-rare are believed to be declining overall.
In Berkshire County we co-exist with six species of freshwater turtles. Our common turtles are the painted turtle, the common snapping turtle, and the common musk turtle (formerly known as the “Stinkpot,” which is abundant at specific sites but not widespread). Our hard-to-find species are the spotted turtle (uncommon), the wood turtle (rare), and the bog turtle (very rare). We have records of eastern box turtles as well, but whether they indicate a viable population remains a question.
(NOTE: Painted turtles are often confused with box turtles. Painted turtles are freshwater animals that can also travel over land. Their shells are smooth and black or near black, with red and yellow undersides, and their necks and limbs are black- and yellow-striped. Box turtles are tortoises. They live on land only, not in wetlands. They have a high domed shell variable in patterns of brown and yellow. The underside of the shell, the plastron, is hinged and closes tightly.)
Now that spring has arrived, the turtles are out soaking up the sun. We often see turtles basking on logs, tussocks, and river banks. We also often see them on roads as we whiz by, sometimes alive and crossing, sometimes not so lucky.
What to do when you see a turtle on the road? First, assess whether it’s safe for you to stop and do something for the turtle. If so, and you can safely stop and direct traffic so the turtle can continue on its own, that’s the best-case scenario. If you need to hurry the turtle along, move it in the direction it is headed, no matter how odd that direction might feel to you (i.e. it might be farther from a wetland).
Freshwater turtles travel over land, often through surprising habitats. It is safe to assume they know where they are and where they are going. Leaving them to their own journeys is the kindest thing we can do, on both the individual and population levels. After all, we are the ones who are new to the neighborhood.It is tempting to take a turtle home with you, and many of us have done so in our youth with the best intentions. But it’s a bad idea: you are removing it from its population. Demographically speaking, keeping a wild turtle is the same as running over it with your car. If I could “un-rescue” the turtle I thought I was rescuing as a kid (by keeping it in the bathtub and then releasing it somewhere else), I would do so, quick as a bunny.
Resources:
If you are interested in reporting turtles that you observe, the Massachusetts Herpetological Atlas Project makes that possible. You can submit diagnostic photos and precise locations here: http://www.massherpatlas.org
Another helpful resource (including guidelines for helping turtles on roads) is here:
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
Hoosic River Revival SUMMER 2016 INTERN POSITION –
North Adams
HRR is a community-based, nonprofit organization with a mission to revitalize the North Adams section of the Hoosic River by developing a modern flood control system that will reconnect the North Adams community to an accessible, attractive, healthy river which will enhance the city’s recreational, cultural and economic vitality (www.HoosicRiverRevival.org).
The internship is multi-faceted:
1) Create and pilot two science/history based 45 minute walking/talking presentations for a new HRR River Rangers program. The goal of this program is to provide an interesting, fun, interactive activity for school children ( ages 9- 16) and for adults so they will understand the ecology of the Hoosic River within levees, its role in North Adams’ history, and the plans of HRR to modify the river and its corridor.
2) Work with HRR Board members to prepare text and graphics for on-site interpretive ‘info Boxes’ ; these boxes (already made) would sit on poles set up along the river and will enable viewers to see restorations planned for that section of the river and learn some of the history in that area.
3) Assist with other outreach efforts as needed. For example, HRR may have exhibit space in one of the downtown summer galleries; in that case, the intern will need to help set that up (most of the materials are already prepared) and from time to time be in the gallery explaining HRR’s history and future plans.
The intern(s) will be expected to complete 8 weeks of full-time work, mostly in North Adams, between approximately June 15-August 15, 2016. The project is co-sponsored by the Center for Environmental Studies, the Center for Learning in Action, and HRR. The intern may qualify for funding (through the CES or the Career Center), including on-campus housing.
Qualifications: The intern should be interested in environmental studies, local history or science education and public engagement. Successful applicants must be able to both work independently and collaboratively and must possess exemplary writing, listening, and communication skills. Access to a car or bike is desirable.
Applications: For inquiries or to apply, send a resume and cover letter that explains your interest and describes relevant experience to Judy Grinnell at hoosicriverrevival@gmail.com. Review of applications will begin on March 21 and continue until the position is filled.
To learn more about the HRR, see hoosicriverrevival.org
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
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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Laborer I – Dept. of Conservation and Recreation, Pittsfield
(six positions available)
Please excuse the short notice, but DCR now has 6 positions open for Laborer 1 positions working with Greening the Gateways in Pittsfield. These are short-term seasonal positions, meaning the work is from (late) April – June with the possibility of coming back for our Fall season Sept – Nov. The hours are 7:30am – 4pm with a 1/2 hour unpaid lunch. The pay is $13.45/hour. This job is manual labor intensive; digging holes, carrying saplings, loading and unloading rack truck with saplings, carrying buckets of soil and mulch, etc.
Because of the short turnaround time, interested candidates should call Jacklyn Beebe directly to talk more about the position:
Jacklyn Beebe
Department of Conservation and Recreation
Greening the Gateway Cities
Forester 1
(857) 930-6042
October Mountain State Forest
317 Woodland Rd
Lee, MA 01238
Please CLICK HERE for a blank application or use the link below to access the pdf version.
http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/
Important Dates:
We are holding interviews next Monday, April 11.
Anticipated start date is Tuesday April 19th since Monday 4/18 is a State Holiday.
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
Seasonal Forestry Assistant – MA Dept. of Conservation and Recreation (Pittsfield)
About 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 Forestry Assistant. Seasonal positions may be subject to the recall process and will be filled in accordance with collective bargaining agreements, positions not filled using this process will be interviewed for.Duties: Forestry Assistants work outdoors in all types of weather; work in isolated areas; may be exposed to the hazards of power tools and equipment such as chainsaws and hoists and travel for job related purposes.Assists in the preparation of forest management plans designed to provide water supply protection; assists in the interpretation of aerial photos, GPS and GIS data, and other cartographic work regarding forests; assists in the inventory of natural resources and the establishment and maintenance of state forest boundary lines.Assists in planning and supervision of timber stand improvement work by state forest crews and private contractors.Assists in the sale of wood products including preparing silvicultural prescriptions, minimizing adverse environmental impacts of harvesting, and ensuring contractual compliance by private contractors.Cooperates with state and municipal authorities during emergencies and natural disasters such as forest fires, wind or ice storms, and insect infestations.Performs related duties such as maintaining records and attending staff meetings.Specific Duties:
- Collecting forest inventory data (CFI) including tree measurements, forest assessment, forest understory assessment, and coarse woody debris measurement.
- Processing forest inventory data with a computer.
POSITION INFORMATION:Position: (2) Seasonal Forestry Assistant
Position 1 Location: Pittsfield Regional Office, 740 South Street Pittsfield, MA 01202
Position 2 Location: Amherst Field Office, 40 Cold Storage Drive, Amherst, MA 01004
Start Date: April 3, 2016
End Date: November 4, 2016Qualifications:Minimum Entrance Requirements:Applicants must have at least (A) one year of full-time, or equivalent part-time experience in forestry or natural resource management, or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.Substitutions:
- An Associate’s or higher degree with a major in forestry or forestry management may be substituted for the required
experience.**Education toward such a degree will be. prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.Special Requirements: Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator’s LicenseThis requisition will remain open until filled; however, first consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 dayMinimum Entrance Requirements:Applicants must have at least (A) one year of full-time, or equivalent part-time experience in forestry or natural resource management, or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.Substitutions:
- An Associate’s or higher degree with a major in forestry or forestry management may be substituted for the required experience.*
*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.Special Requirements: Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.Schedule: Full-time
Number of Openings: 2
Salary: 1,547.60 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: 09-MOSES – Engineers/Scientists
Laborer II – Long Term Seasonal (Pittsfield) – (160001F6)
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, golf courses, trails and parkways.The Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks qualified applicants for the position of Seasonal Planting Laborer II.The Seasonal Planting Laborer II will work outdoors in all types of weather and performs various manual labor tasks in support of the effort to plant trees in Massachusetts’s gateway cities to increase tree canopy cover for the purpose of reducing heating and cooling energy costs to residences and businesses.Seasonal staff dig and backfill tree planting holes and levels earth to grade; plant trees according to DCR Bureau of Forestry standards; load and unload tree stock from delivery vehicles; load and unload tools and equipment; maintain vehicle and equipment cleanliness.The basic purpose of this work is to perform manual tasks requiring specialized skill and the use of hand tools to support reforestation efforts.Performs various manual labor tasks, which may require some specialized skills, to plant trees.Digs holes for tree planting and plants trees according to DCR Bureau of Forestry standards.Loads and unloads trucks, physically or by use of dollies; unpacks and stores tools and supplies and equipment in stockrooms, storerooms or warehouses; and takes periodic inventories of supplies and equipment.Performs preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and tools by washing, inspecting, tightening, lubricating and by sharpening edges on all cutting tools.Performs related duties as assigned.Start date is March 20, 2016 and end date is November 19, 2016.
Preferred Qualifications: Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.Ability to speak and write Spanish and translate materials for homeowners who speak Spanish.Skill in using hand tools such as shovels, mattocks, pry bars, bolt cutters, clippers, etc. Ability to follow oral and written instructions. Ability to work in a team setting. Manual dexterity. Physical stamina and endurance for full time, hard manual labor. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Willing to work in all weather conditions.
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 six months of full-time, or equivalent part- time experience in performing manual labor in connection with general construction or maintenance work.An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Official Title: Laborer II Work
Locations: Lee-Woodland Road
Primary Location: United States-Massachusetts-Lee-Lee-Woodland Road
Job: Equipment, Facilities & Services
Agency: Department of Conservation & Recreation
Schedule: Full-time Shift: Day
Job Posting: Mar 22, 2016, 4:09:37 PM
Number of Openings: 2
Salary: 1,220.36 Biweekly
If you have Diversity, Affirmative Action or Equal Employment Opportunity questions or need a Reasonable Accommodation, please contact Diversity Officer / ADA Coordinator:: Agatha Summons-McGuire – 617-626-1282
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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