The BEAT News

In the News

• Elm Street Tree Planting a Tribute to Astrid Hagenguth
• World's Largest Seafood Processor Fined by EPA
• Six New England Companies Settle with EPA for Pesticide Violations
• New Land Conservation Incentive
• Your Input Needed for State Outdoors Survey
• "Why We Should Care About Wild Trout Streams and their Inhabitants"
• Environmental Officials Release Climate Change Adaptation Report
• After the Trial: Vermont Yankee and Entergy
• Bird Seed Sale to benefit Friends of the Dyken Pond Center
• Calling All Women Who Would Like to Immerse Themselves in Nature, Nurture the Wild Within, and Sync Body and Mind with the Season and the Earth!
• Want to Make America More Efficient? Here is a Job for You
• Highstead  Looking for Conservation Director
• The Appalachian Mountain Club is Looking For a New President
• Job Opening: Flow Restoration Specialist
• Immersion into Sustainable Living & Permaculture Design Internship

CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Environmental Monitor
Public Notices Alphabetically by town
The BEAT News Archives

Advocacy News (Includes how to reach your legislators)

DEP Enforcement Actions In The Berkshire

Please send items of interest to kristen@thebeatnews.org

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Elm Street Tree Planting a Tribute to Astrid Hagenguth

A wonderful tribute to Astrid Hagenguth, who passed away earlier this year, will be the planting of 47 trees on Elm Street in Pittsfield. Astrid divided her time between Pittsfield and New York City. She was an amazing advocate for many environmental programs in both places. The Elm Street tree planting was one of her projects.


Pittsfield's Department of Community Development and The Department of Public Utilities have joined efforts with Pittsfield Tree Watch and Elm Street Partnership to plant 47 trees, of 11 different varieties, on Elm Street, beginning at Gordon Street continuing to Holmes Road. Maynard Landscaping & Garden Center will begin planting this week and finish the project by Sept. 30.

Astrid, as the leader of Pittsfield Tree Watch approached the city about this project and worked closely with both City Departments to secure the funding. Pittsfield Tree Watch is a volunteer organization that advocates for tree plantings throughout the city.

"This vision has become a reality as a result of Astrid’s energy and passion for raising tree-consciousness and inspiring the city and residents to plant trees throughout the community," said Mayor James M. Ruberto.

Pittsfield Tree Watch organized the Elm Street Partnership comprised of businesses located in the project area. Janet Farnsworth, owner of the Chocolatier located at 208 Elm St., is a member of the partnership.

"This project is absolutely wonderful. Astrid would have been ecstatic and every business on Elm Street should take pride," Farnsworth said.

The Department of Public Utilities received an Urban Forestry Challenge Grant. This grant funding along with Community Development Block Grant Funding from The Department of Community Development has allowed this project to move forward.

BEAT Note: Astrid was an amazing environmental advocate. She had so much energy and enthusiasm for her projects that she really made things happen. We miss her deeply!

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World's Largest Seafood Processor Fined by EPA
Settlement to reduce discharges of seafood processing waste by more than 100 million pounds annually

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) today announced that Trident Seafoods Corp., one of the world’s largest seafood processors, has agreed to pay a $2.5 million civil penalty and invest millions in seafood processing waste controls to settle alleged violations of the Clean Water Act (CWA). Unauthorized discharges of seafood processing waste lead to large seafood waste piles on the seafloor, creating anoxic, or oxygen-depleted, conditions that result in unsuitable habitats for fish and other living organisms.

“Today’s settlement signals an important change in how seafood processing is managed in Alaska,” said Cynthia Giles, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “Trident’s investment in fishmeal facilities and commitment to improving its waste management practices will help protect our nation’s waters and set the standard for Alaska’s seafood processing industry.”

“This agreement will benefit the quality of Alaskan waters, which host a critical habitat for the seafood industry,” said Ignacia S. Moreno, assistant attorney general for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “The upgrades will enable Trident to achieve and maintain compliance with the Clean Water Act, and will protect Alaskan waters, eliminate waste and create efficiencies that will serve as a model of best business practices for the seafood processing industry.”

The agreement requires Trident to invest an estimated $30-40 million, and potentially more, in source control and waste pile remediation measures. The source control measures include building a fishmeal plant in Naknek, Alaska, that will have the capacity to handle at least 30 million pounds of seafood processing waste annually, taking in both its own fish waste and potentially that of other local processors. Trident has also agreed to reduce the amount of seafood processing waste discharged from the Akutan, Cordova, St. Paul and Ketchikan, Alaska, facilities and monitor the amount of seafood processing waste discharged into Starrigavan Bay in Sitka, Alaska. The actions taken will reduce Trident’s fish processing discharges by a total of more than 105 million pounds annually.

The company has also agreed to remediation measures including studying seafloor waste piles at Trident’s facilities in Akutan, Ketchikan and Cordova. Based on the results of these studies, Trident will remove or partially remediate the piles. One seafood processing waste pile in Akutan Harbor is currently estimated to be more than 50 acres in size.

The EPA complaint, also filed as part of this legal action, alleges that Trident had more than 480 CWA violations at 14 of its on-shore and off-shore Alaskan seafood processing facilities. The alleged violations include discharging without a necessary permit, exceeding discharge limits, failing to comply with permit restrictions on discharge locations (including discharges into at least two National Wildlife Refuges), creating oxygen-depleting “zones of deposit” or underwater piles of fish processing waste occupying more than the allowed one acre of seafloor. The company also allegedly failed to conduct required monitoring and implement required best management practices.

Over the past decade, Trident has been a party to multiple administrative enforcement agreements and judicial consent decrees resolving similar violations at many of the same facilities.

The settlement was lodged in federal court in Seattle, Wash. and is subject to a 30-day public comment period.

More information on the settlement and a copy of the consent decree: http://epa.gov/compliance/resources/cases/civil/cwa/tridentseafoods.html

R295

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View all news releases related to compliance and enforcement

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Six New England Companies Settle with EPA for Pesticide Violations

Six companies based in New England that produce pesticide products recently agreed to pay a total of more than $34,000 to settle claims by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that they failed to properly submit annual production reports to the agency, as required by federal law.

The law that governs pesticide use in the U.S., the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), requires pesticide manufacturers to submit annual production reports to EPA. According to the settlements filed by EPA’s New England office, each of the six companies has failed on at least one previous occasion to properly submit this information.

The companies and what they paid to settle include:
• The Old Mill Troy, Inc. of North Troy, Vermont paid $9,720;
• EFD International, Inc. d/b/a Specialty Products of East Providence, R.I. paid $4,455;
• Harrison Specialty Company of Canton, Mass. paid $9,720;
• Creative Chemicals Inc. of Holyoke, Mass. paid $9,720;
• Traveler’s Supply Inc. of Chicopee, Mass. paid $990; and
• FCS-Chemsupply Inc., d/b/a Chemstation-Boston of Weymouth, Mass./ who received no penalty in exchange for cancelling its establishment registration and agreeing not to produce any pesticides or pesticide devices, or seek re-registration under FIFRA for at least five years.

The companies have addressed all violations and have paid their fines. Penalties were based on several factors including the type of violation and size of the business.

This federal pesticide law requires that any company registered as a pesticide producer submit annual production reports to EPA on or before March 1. These reports are the only means that EPA has for obtaining information on the types and amounts of pesticides being produced, sold or distributed both domestically and for export. EPA uses the information to trace ineffective, contaminated or recalled pesticide products, among other purposes.

Pesticides include insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, antimicrobials and other substances and pest control devices used to control insects, weeds or microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses.

More information: Pesticides enforcement in New England (http://www.epa.gov/region1/enforcement/pesticides/index.html)
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View all Region 1 News Releases

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New Land Conservation Incentive
Click here for the Conservation Land Tax Credit application

BOSTON – September 19, 2011 – The Massachusetts Conservation Land Tax Credit Program, a new initiative designed to boost land conservation by offering state income tax credits in exchange for conservation land donations, is now taking applications from eligible land donors today, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. announced today.

“With the rollout of this tax credit program today, we have added another tool to further the Patrick-Murray Administration’s ambitious land conservation agenda,” said Secretary Sullivan. “With more than 85,000 acres protected since the Governor took office, we have made outstanding progress and we anticipate continuing that trend through this new program that rewards the generosity of private landowners across the state.”

Under EEA regulations that took effect today, donated land must be appraised at $100,000 or more and be protected in perpetuity by state, municipal or private conservation entities in order to qualify for a state income tax credit of one half of the appraised value, up to a maximum of $50,000. By law, total funding for the program is capped at $2 million.

Starting today, EEA will accept applications for a two-week period, ending October 3. EEA will hold a random public drawing on October 4 to establish the order in which those applications will be reviewed. Should the pool of approved applications generate more than $2 million in tax credits, applicants will be assessed in a first come, first serve basis. For the first year of the program only, land that has already been donated will be valid for application to the program. In subsequent years, the program will operate on a strictly first come-first served basis, without a random drawing.

EEA will evaluate applications to insure that the donations conform to regional and state long-term land conservation land goals, as well as the program’s regulations. Once approved by EEA, applicants must follow the Massachusetts Department of Revenue’s process to receive the tax credit. Credits will be applied to returns starting in the 2011 tax year.

With the launch of this program, Massachusetts joins more than a dozen states that offer state tax credits for the donation of approved conservation land. The Conservation Land Tax Credit Program is authorized by Chapter 509 of the Acts of 2009 as amended by Chapter 409 of the Acts of 2010.

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Your Input Needed for State Outdoors Survey

The State’s Energy and Environmental Affairs Division of Conservation Services (DCS) is encouraging Massachusetts residents to fill out an important survey to help guide decisions on how state funding can be best used for the acquisition of conservation or park land or renovation of existing parks and recreation facilities. DCS is conducting three surveys to gather data and update the Massachusetts Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP). Public input is critical! The deadline for completing surveys is October 31, 2011.

Community officials such as recreation directors, conservation agents, community planners, and open space committee members should fill out the Community Officials Survey.

Massachusetts residents fill out the User Survey.

Officers, board members, or employees of a Massachusetts land trust or related organization should fill out the Land Trust Survey.

For hard copies of surveys, send a self-addressed stamped envelope and a request to SCORP Survey, EEA-DCS, 100 Cambridge Street, 9th Floor, Boston, MA 02114 or call 617-626-1171 and request a survey be sent to you. Please be sure to indicate which type of survey you wish to complete.

The National Park Service requires the Commonwealth to complete a SCORP every five years to remain eligible for funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant program. Since 1965, over $95 million of federal funding has been awarded to projects in every county in Massachusetts for the acquisition of public conservation land and development or renovation of parks and recreation facilities. Currently MA receives about $800,000 annually from LWCF, but if a proposal to fully fund the LWCF is passed by Congress, that amount could increase significantly, up to $15 million.

For more information about the surveys or SCORP, contact Melissa Cryan, LWCF Stateside Coordinator, at 617-626-1171 or melissa.cryan@state.ma.us.

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"Why We Should Care About Wild Trout Streams and their Inhabitants"

Russ Cohen will give a presentation on "Why we should care about Wild Trout Streams and their Inhabitants" on Wednesday, October 5th, at 7pm at Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, 1 Fenn Street, 3rd Floor Conference Room, Pittsfield, MA.

Russ Cohen, from the Division of Ecological Restoration, MA Dept. of Fish and Game (http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/der/index.htm) will give a fascinating presentation on why the presence of naturally-reproducing wild trout are an indicator that a stream is in relatively good shape and is likely to support a host of aquatic and other sensitive organisms that share wild trout’s demanding habitat requirements. While there are more wild trout streams around than many people realize, these high-quality habitats are threatened and could be lost unless they are better recognized and protected.

Russ’ presentation covers the characteristics of healthy wild trout streams (adequate instream flows, cool water temperatures, plentiful streamside vegetation, large woody material in the stream, etc.), the various human activities that can degrade trout habitat (excessive removal of riverine vegetation, water supply withdrawals, impervious surfaces, etc.) and what actions people can take to help protect and restore these valuable resources.

Russ is the co-author of "Ten Ways Conservation Commissions Can Help Protect Coldwater Streams and Their Inhabitants", an important publication that provides tangible ways conservation commissions and others can most effectively protect coldwater resources within their communities. Russ' presentation will expose people to new ideas and current approaches to stream management.

Russ' presentation is being held by the Berkshire Conservation Commission Group meeting, but is open to everyone with an interest in these important habitats.

For more information contact Terry Plantier Eucker, Berkshire Conservation Agent Program, (413)698-2172 home, (413)464-6272 cell, BCAP@nycap.rr.com.

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Environmental Officials Release Climate Change Adaptation Report
Report includes predictions, impacts, and costs associated with climate change and suggested mitigation strategies
Massachusetts Climate Change Adaptation Report

BOSTON – Tuesday, September 27, 2011 – Massachusetts Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. today filed a report with the Legislature that provides a comprehensive overview of observed and predicted changes to Massachusetts’ climate and the anticipated impacts of and potential adaptation strategies to prepare for climate change.

The first of its kind in the state, the Massachusetts Climate Change Adaptation Report was prepared by EEA and the 34-member Climate Change Adaptation Advisory Committee established under the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2008. It includes a sector-by-sector look at how climate change may impact natural resources and habitat; infrastructure; human health and welfare; local economy and government; and coastal zone and oceans. Like many other coastal states, the report finds that Massachusetts is faced with increasing sea level rise and storm surges, higher temperatures, and changes in precipitation over the course of this century – all of which could contribute to profound impacts on our coastal infrastructure and businesses, public health and natural ecosystems in coming years.

“This report provides a framework for assessing the short and long-term solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change on public health, our natural and man-made resources, and our economy and offers some important suggestions about how to prepare to meet those challenges,” said Secretary Sullivan.

EEA and its agencies plan to evaluate potential strategies contained in the report and work with stakeholders to prioritize them and assess feasibility of implementation. In addition, EEA plans to form a stakeholder group that will explore mechanisms for addressing the potential impacts of climate change (such as sea level rise) as part of EEA’s Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act review process.

The report notes that, between 1921 and 2006, sea level rose by 22 centimeters; since 1970, our climate has warmed at an average rate of nearly 0.26°C (0.5°F) per decade; and the number of days with temperatures above 90°F nearly doubled in the last 45 years. Massachusetts is set to experience a five to ten degree increase in its average ambient temperature, and many more extreme hot summer days by 2100, according to the report, while precipitation patterns are expected to become more extreme, with more floods and more droughts. Sea surface temperatures are predicted to increase by up to eight degrees and coastal areas are expected to experience greater sea level rise and storm surges.

The report aims to provide guidance on how communities, businesses and governments can prepare for and respond to climate change effect such as these. Potential approaches include conducting vulnerability assessments of public health, physical structures and assets, natural resources and economic sectors. Data collected from these assessments would inform future planning, development and management of existing and planned resources.

“The Massachusetts Department of Public Health worked closely with EEA on this important report and is working in partnership with local health officials across the state to better prepare for the anticipated increase in heat-related illness and other public health impacts of climate change,” said Commissioner John Auerbach.

“Climate change is something we, as a society, have to address,” said Andrew Finton, director of science and conservation at The Nature Conservancy in Massachusetts, and a co-chair of the ‘Natural Resources and Habitat’ subcommittee, which worked on the report. “We have an opportunity to help our natural systems become more resilient so they can adapt to a changing climate and continue to provide habitat, drinking water and all of the other benefits that nature provides. While work is already underway to help our communities and natural systems cope with the impacts of climate change, this report serves as a call to action to implement strategies to protect human health and welfare, insulate our economy and ensure that our natural systems can continue to meet our needs.”

The report also highlights the importance of protecting existing infrastructure and development from inundation, especially structures along coasts and in flood plains, and the importance of including climate change predictions in future development and design practices. The report includes potential strategies to enhance emergency response tools, to protect and preserve natural habitats and the hydrology of watersheds, to establish redundant supply routes and to incorporate climate change projections into municipal planning.

“MassDOT continues to ensure that the Commonwealth maintains an efficient and effective transportation system in the face of projected effects of climate change on New England,” said Transportation Secretary Richard A. Davey. “Our various modes of transport – roads, rail, air, and water – are critical to ensuring economic vitality, quality of life, and public safety as we help move people, goods, and services throughout the Commonwealth. We have begun to identify strategies, tools, and techniques that will help us adapt our planning, construction, maintenance, and operational functions to these long-term global environmental challenges.”

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After the trial: Vermont Yankee and Entergy
From the Conservation Law Foundation

A decision in the Vermont Yankee case is expected before the end of the year. Meanwhile, Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) in its role as “friend of the court” submitted a post trial memo supporting the State of Vermont’s right to have a say about Vermont Yankee. The brief explains that the Vermont Legislature acted well within its rights and why Entergy’s safety characterizations are faulty.

CLF Attorney Sandy Levine was a guest on the Callie Crossley show on WGBH in Boston Monday afternoon to discuss Vermont Yankee and the future of nuclear power.

Entergy’s nuclear plants continue to have problems calling into question their ability to be trustworthy and responsibly manage their nuclear fleet.

A problem at Vermont Yankee Sunday night reduced power to 36% and if the situation is not remedied shortly, the plant will be required to shut down completely.

At the Fitzpatrick Nuclear Power Plant in New York State, investigations led to 4 workers being fired, 34 disciplined, and criminal charges brought against the plant’s former radiation protection technician. The investigations showed that employees falsified tests of safety equipment, failed to document air samples and failed to conduct leak testing, among other things.

In Michigan, the Palisades Nuclear Plant shutdown twice last week, due to a cooling system problem and also an electrical breaker fault.

This weekend Governor Cuomo stated that the Indian Point nuclear plant could easily be replaced with other power sources because “safety [is] first.”

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Bird Seed Sale to benefit Friends of the Dyken Pond Center

Grafton –Bird seed is being offered by the Friends of the Dyken Pond Center this fall as a fundraiser to support programs and activities held at the Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center. This is a one-time sale and bird seed must be pre-ordered by Friday, October 7th. There will be a pick-up day on Saturday, October 15th at the Capital Agway located on NY Route 7 in Brunswick from 9 am until 12 noon. Everyone picking up their orders at Capital Agway will receive a 10% discount coupon good for all bird related items. If you can’t make it on October 15th, no problem, just call the Center to make alternate arrangements for a pick-up at either in Troy or Grafton. Order information can be viewed and printed from our website at www.dykenpond.org and mailed to G. Kane, 8 Coolidge Avenue, Troy, NY 12180. Bird seed orders can also be made by calling the Center at 658-2055, or e-mailing dykenpond@fairpoint.net. Attracting, pleasing, colorful birds depend upon the food offered to them.

We have high quality bird seed in an assortment of blends to attract the birds you desire.

Seed available and prices:
50lb. Grey-Striped Sunflower* $34
40lb. Premium Mixed Seed $24
20lb. Sunflower Hearts $27
20lb. Niger $20
Hi-Energy Suet Cake $1.50 each cake

Please consider supporting environmental education for people of all ages by buying bird seed this fall.

*Due to the energy crisis, we cannot offer Black Oil Sunflower or corn related seed products this year.

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Calling All Women Who Would Like to Immerse Themselves in Nature, Nurture the Wild Within, and Sync Body and Mind with the Season and the Earth!

Women in the Woods is a seasonal program that women throughout the Northeast have been enjoying for the past five years. The group meets each season for a 24-hour overnight experience in the woods, learning about medicinal and edible plants, making fire, making crafts from the gifts of the land, and enjoying the unique beauty of being in an intimate circle of women in nature. Our weekends offer challenge and transformation in a nurturing and relaxing atmosphere.

Meetings for 2011-2012 are October 15-16, February 25-26, May 19-20, and July 21-22 in New Lebanon, NY.

For more information, contact Michelle at Flying Deer Nature Center at 518-794-6687 or info@flyingdeernaturecenter.org, or visit our website at www.flyingdeernaturecenter.org.

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Want to make America more efficient? Here is a job for you.

The Appliance Standards Awareness Project (ASAP) has done a phenomenal job of coordinating and advancing the work of the environmental and efficiency advocacy communities in the world of standards setting for appliances, and – they are hiring. If you have what it takes to be a “Strategic Program / Technical Analyst” you should give them a look. The position is for either Washington DC or Boston, MA - and they will consider a possible work-from-home scenario.

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Highstead  Looking for Conservation Director

Position Summary
Highstead seeks a creative leader with extensive land conservation and policy experience to fill the position of Conservation Director. Highstead (www.highstead.net) is a regional non-profit organization dedicated to conserving the New England landscape and to advancing the Wildlands and Woodlands Vision (www.wildlandsandwoodlands.org). Its major program areas include scientific research, policy analysis and outreach, collaborative partnerships, land stewardship, and botanical collections. Highstead was founded in 1982 and employs seven staff members at its 100-acre site. The site encompasses a natural area, arboretum, superb office and meeting facilities, and unique collections of native trees and shrubs. Highstead is a growing organization that has recently expanded its staff, land base, facilities, programs and endowment.

General Responsibilities
The Conservation Director is responsible for leading the strategic effort by Highstead to advance the Wildlands and Woodlands goals of increasing the pace of conservation in New England and to apply the Wildlands and Woodlands approach to conservation and science more broadly. In this capacity, the Conservation Director will be responsible for the overall direction and coordination of the conservation, ecology and communication programs at Highstead. The Conservation Director will work closely with the Highstead board, supervise three senior staff and coordinate the Wildlands and Woodlands Initiative that includes representatives from academic institutions and other non-profit organizations in New England. The Conservation Director also oversees the undergraduate internship program, and represents Highstead locally, regionally and nationally at meetings, conferences and in the media. The position also includes strategic fundraising to advance collaborative projects.

Specific Duties

Strategic and Programmatic Duties

• Provides organizational leadership and strategic direction for Highstead’s conservation and communication programs based on knowledge of regional and national conservation trends.
• Coordinates the Wildlands and Woodlands (W&W) Initiative, serves as a member of the W&W Steering Committee, and leads outreach to diverse non-profit, government agency and private sector organizations.
• Coordinates Forest Policy Working Group of the W&W Initiative.
• Advances targeted land conservation projects consistent with W&W goals as identified by the W&W Steering Committee.
• Links Highstead’s interests and activities in New England with related organizations and activities in the Central and Western regions of the U.S. through periodic program exchanges.
• Works closely with the Communication Director to develop and implement a communications strategy that increases awareness of W&W, advances its conservation goals and engages strategic support groups and activities. This includes collaborating on the productions of outreach materials such as the website, newsletter, special reports, and materials for regional/national media.
• Works with staff and partners to develop, host and coordinate events regionally and at Highstead, including Woodland Conversations, conferences, and workshops.
• Represents Highstead at a regional and national level, builds networks with leaders of major regional and national conservation efforts, and communicates with relevant policy makers and conservation leaders regarding W&W and Highstead priorities and programs.
• Organizational Management Duties
• Engages with the Highstead Board to define long-term directions that will advance Highstead’s role in conservation and related science. Provides regular and timely reports, identifies strategic opportunities, and reports on staff activities and accomplishments.
• Coordinates with all staff to ensure that Highstead (and the conservation landscape of Redding) serves as an exemplar of Wildlands and Woodlands conservation and science.
• Supervises Communication Director, Regional Conservationist, Ecologist and interns. Works with staff to develop annual work plans and to present overviews, updates, and proposals for new initiatives to the board. Works with Office Manager to oversee administrative tasks associated with conservation, ecology and communication programs.
• Develops budgets and financial reports for conservation, ecology, and communication programs and works with other senior staff to create overall Highstead budget.
  

Skills and Qualifications

• Required - Master’s degree in environmental science, natural resource economics or policy and least 8 years of conservation experience, including program development, grant writing, and organizational management. Proven ability to develop and implement highly effective conservation programs, manage budgets and personnel, and facilitate high-impact external outreach to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the New England landscape and its conservation setting.
• Excellent professional networking, oral and written communication and presentation skills are essential.
• Interest in working with an engaged board is critical.
• A successful candidate must be self-sufficient, detail-oriented, and a strong problem-solver.
  

Terms and Compensation
The Conservation Director is a full time position that offers a competitive salary and benefits package. The position is based at Highstead in Redding, Connecticut with extensive regional travel and some national travel required.

For More Information
Information about Highstead and additional details about the Conservation Director position can be viewed at http://www.highstead.net.

To Apply
Send a curriculum vitae, a description of your conservation skills and work experiences, and a statement of interest to: Conservation Director Search Committee, Highstead, PO Box 1097, Redding Center, CT 06875, or via email to jcologgi@highstead.net, referencing Conservation Director Application as the email subject.

The position is available immediately. Applications are accepted until September 30, 2011 or until the position is filled.

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The Appalachian Mountain Club Is Looking For a New President

The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC, http://www.outdoors.org), the nation’s oldest conservation and outdoor recreation organization, is seeking a new President. The President will harness the energy and passion of thousands (board of directors, board of advisors, staff, chapter leadership, donors, members, volunteers and programmatic partners) to ensure the AMC’s vision, priorities and programs are aligned, and that the organization has the operational business plans, specific objectives, and the financial and team resources required to deliver results.

The AMC today is focused on the intersection of conservation, recreation and outdoor education. With more than 100,000 members, advocates, and supporters; 12 local volunteer-led chapters; 16,000 volunteers and roughly 450 full time and seasonal staff, the organization brought more than 40,000 youth into the outdoors, managed 1,500+ miles of hiking trails, and brought its mission to 150,000+ overnight guests in 2010. The AMC’s endowment of $50M and operating budget of $20M are supported by a wide range of program revenues as well as foundation and individual charitable donations.

Building on the organization’s rich history, deep impact and consistent financial strength, the board of directors, staff and volunteers have developed a strategic vision which focuses on expanding the size, breadth, diversity and strength of the AMC community; leading regional conservation action; building on our recent success in Maine’s 100-mile wilderness; and getting a growing number of kids outdoors. The AMC is poised for continued momentum and is eager to welcome its new President to guide important strategic choices in pursuing this broad vision, while ensuring balance among the core mission areas.

Responsibilities
Strategic Vision and Leadership

• Inspire all segments of our constituency; strategically orient programs, partnerships and messaging by driving a core belief about the power of the AMC’s mission
• Drive diversity throughout the AMC on critical dimensions that include: race, ethnicity, economic background, sexual orientation, life stage and geographical base
• Engage the board of directors in its important governance role to address the organization’s opportunities, challenges, strategic choices and progress toward goals
• Establish, on an on-going basis, the long-term direction and policies of the organization; preserve and enhance the culture of volunteerism, collegiality, and drive for excellence
• Lead and direct the development and delivery of the highest quality mix of compelling service offerings, based on input from the wide array of AMC constituencies

Fundraising and External Relations

• Develop and implement a fundraising strategy that is tailored to the organization’s current and future needs, focusing on major gifts, foundations, corporate partners and individual donations
• In collaboration with the board of directors, attract, develop, and secure high impact donors; ensure that funds are properly and strategically allocated
• Drive an ambitious, engaged communications and social media strategy that expands the AMC’s membership, guest visits and program participation
• Advocate on important conservation policy issues where the AMC has expertise and experience
• Manage partnerships—a hallmark of the AMC’s working approach—by coordinating effectively with other leaders of conservation groups, federal and local government officials, as well as other interest groups in the AMC’s region
  

Team/Organizational/Business Management

• Translate the AMC’s strategies and priorities into results-oriented action plans; engage, in a transparent way, with the board, leadership team, staff and other constituents on issues and opportunities
• Recruit, mentor and motivate a high-potential and deeply committed staff, while supporting an empowered, cross-organizational performance culture
• Manage operations, staff, and finances; delegate appropriately and effectively
• Ensure the AMC’s continuous trend of balanced budgets (20+ years now) combined with a norm of creative and entrepreneurial endeavors
• Oversee and guide policies relating to volunteer activities
• Ensure that technology and people investments, systems and resources are aligned to deliver high productivity and outcomes
  

This is an outstanding opportunity for a leader who has a passion for the AMC’s mission and is both visionary and pragmatic. With a genuine respect for diversity and inclusion, the President is highly skilled at building authentic, collaborative relationships, and navigating complex political and partnership environments. S/he brings experience of inspiring and managing within an entrepreneurial, service-oriented, multi-site nonprofit or corporation. The new President is as comfortable with innovative approaches to social media as with delivering a strong bottom line. S/he has a strong track record of successful fundraising/sales, and identifying new revenue sources. Based in Boston, and willing to travel extensively throughout the AMC’s region—often by foot, bike, or canoe during multi-day events—the President strengthens and embodies the organization’s unique culture.

For more information about the AMC, visit http://www.outdoors.org and watch a video at http://www.outdoors.org/publications/outdoors/2011/features/vision-2010-video-decade-outdoors.cfm.

For additional information regarding this search, visit http://www.outdoors.org/presidentsearch.

To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to: AMCoutdoors@bridgespan.org.

Bridgespan
Boston 535 Boylston St., 10th Floor Boston, MA 02116 P 617 572-2833 F 617 572-2834
New York 112 West 34th St., Suite 1510 New York, NY 10120 P 646 562-8900 F 646 562-8901
San Francisco 465 California St., 11th Floor San Francisco, CA 94104 P 415 627-1100 F 415 627-4575 www.bridgespan.org | www.bridgestar.org

The Appalachian Mountain Club is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply for this position. The Bridgespan Group, a nonprofit organization, serves diverse organizations and is committed to building high-performing teams that mirror the communities we serve.

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Flow Restoration Specialist

This is a Civil Service position for the Department of Fish and Game. This is a 30 hour per week part-time position. The Flow Restoration Specialist works with partners to gather and assess high quality data on stream flow trends, and to promote and advise restoration of more natural stream flow regimes to restore fish and wildlife habitat. This person will primarily support the River Instream Flow Stewards (RIFLS) program, through which volunteers monitor stream flow to inform sustainable water management and ecological health. Work may involve field measurements, local outreach and education, volunteer coordination and technical support, data analysis and modeling, and policy and permit review.
In addition, the Flow Restoration Specialist will provide technical assistance, such as monitoring support, to the Division of Ecological Restoration’s river and wetland restoration projects. When appropriate, the position will manage and support management of holistic restoration projects that benefit native wildlife and support biodiversity

Environmental Analyst II

This position is funded from the Commonwealth's annual operating budget.

Duties:

• Serves as technical specialist for the River Instream Flow Stewards (RIFLS) program, assisting the Watershed Ecologist with or leading the following tasks as appropriate:
• Coordinate RIFLS volunteers and recruit new volunteers as needed.
• Train RIFLS volunteers to understand stream flow issues, read staff gauges, and enter data online. This position is responsible for organizing and leading training workshops for these purposes including providing materials, and ongoing technical support to citizens and municipal officials for data collection and management activities that lead to improved surface water functioning.
• Maintain existing staff gauges, including making annual flow measurements at all staff gauges and additional flow measurements where new rating curves are needed.
• Identify new sites for staff gauges and install new gauges.
• Analyze stream flow data to develop rating curves. Conduct data analysis, modeling, and interpretation for specific watersheds, sites, and/or issues.
• Maintain technical equipment, databases, and website.
• Conduct outreach and provide technical support, data, and relevant information to volunteers and municipal officials.
• Coordinate with local, state, and federal partners, consulting firms, and restoration project proponents on existing projects; organize and facilitate meetings with local constituents, town officials and experts to help municipalities and watershed groups identify and mitigate problem areas and protect resources.
• Write grants and develop grant budgets to support program initiatives.
• Support DER’s wetland and river restoration program, particularly with regard to flow restoration aspects, including:
• Conduct field work and data analysis for habitat restoration project development and evaluation, such as instrumentation of restoration sites for flow monitoring and development of rating curves.
• Provide technical assistance and outreach on priority and pilot projects as well as outreach on restoration priorities statewide.
• Work with partners and DER staff to plan and coordinate appropriate community outreach and coalition building events including public presentations, meetings, and mailings.
• Participate in technical advisory committee meetings and planning meetings.
  

Qualifications:

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Applicants must have at least (A) three years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, technical or professional experience in the field of environmental science, biology, chemistry, earth science, environmental health, meteorology, natural science, toxicology or public health, of which (B) at least one year must have been in a professional capacity, or (C) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the following substitutions.

Substitutions:

• An Associate's degree with a major in the field of environmental science, biology, chemistry, earth science, environmental health, meteorology, natural science, toxicology or public health may be substituted for a maximum of one year of the required (A) experience.*

• A Bachelor's degree with a major in the field of environmental science, biology, chemistry, earth science, environmental health, meteorology, natural science, toxicology or public health may be substituted for a maximum of two years of the required (A) experience.*

• A Graduate degree with a major in environmental science, biology, chemistry, earth science, environmental health, meteorology, natural science, toxicology or public health 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: Based on assignment, possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A scientific background in a field such as biology, geology, hydrology, environmental science, fisheries, geography, or fluvial geomorphology.
• Ability to communicate scientific concepts to the general public and to support volunteers in collecting high quality data.
• Experience with field monitoring; flow monitoring and rating curve development a plus.
• Experience working on challenging natural resource issues with multiple stakeholders (e.g., the public, local planning boards and commissions, state and federal agencies).
• Experience in making presentations, facilitating public meetings, and providing training.
• An understanding of community organizing and effective advocacy towards goals of restoration and protection of natural resources.
• Understanding of water management issues such as instream flow, water allocation, conservation measures, and stormwater management; ability to relate these topics to observations made in the field.
• Knowledge of and experience with Massachusetts watersheds and natural resources.
• Ability to work independently, with initiative, and to work as a member of a team.
• Strong interpersonal and oral and written communication skills.
• Willingness to travel to various locations statewide for field work and meetings, including occasional evenings and weekends.
• Willingness to work outside in most weather conditions, wade in rivers up to waist deep, and use and maintain technical equipment.
• Ability to edit and layout publications and pictures through such programs as Adobe PageMaker, Photoshop, and Dreamweaver
  

Comments:
This is a Civil Service position. This is a 30 hour per week part-time position. The Flow Restoration Specialist works with partners to gather and assess high quality data on stream flow trends, and to promote and advise restoration of more natural stream flow regimes to restore fish and wildlife habitat. This person will primarily support the River Instream Flow Stewards (RIFLS) program, through which volunteers monitor stream flow to inform sustainable water management and ecological health. Work may involve field measurements, local outreach and education, volunteer coordination and technical support, data analysis and modeling, and policy and permit review.
In addition, the Flow Restoration Specialist will provide technical assistance, such as monitoring support, to the Division of Ecological Restoration’s river and wetland restoration projects. When appropriate, the position will manage and support management of holistic restoration projects that benefit native wildlife and support biodiversity

How to Apply:
All applications must be made in writing, consisting of a cover letter making specific reference to this particular announcement, a current resume with references and a Commonwealth of Massachusetts Application for Employment form, which can be found on the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs web site at http://www.state.ma.us/envir/, select the link Employment, then EOEA employment application or you may request a copy be sent to you. All applications must be received no later than 5:00 PM on the deadline date.

How to apply:
Mail cover letter and resume to:

Peter Burke, Personnel Officer
Department Of Fish And Game
251 Causeway Street - Suite 400
Boston, Massachusetts 02114

Telephone #: (617) 626-1562
Fax #: (617) 626-1505

Agency Web Address:
http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/

Diversity Officer:
Mr. Peter Burke, (617) 626-1562 an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

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Immersion into Sustainable Living & Permaculture Design Internship

Punta Mona Center for Sustainable Living and Education
http://www.puntamona.org

Immersion into Sustainable Living & Permaculture Design Internship:
Living sustainability, integrating health, practical design and community development.
Dates: Two Sessions- January 6-27 & June 3-24, 2012
Location: Punta Mona Center for Sustainable Living and Education
Tuition: $1800, includes program, Permaculture Design Certificate, all meals, lodging at Punta Mona during course hours, materials, field trip transportation, field trip admissions & internet**

About Punta Mona
Punta Mona Center for Sustainable Living and Education, an 85- acre off-the-grid organic farm, botanical collection, community, jungle-lodge and education center located on the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. Situated in secondary and primary rain forest in the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, there are no roads to the farm and our primary means of travel are by boat or on foot!

Founded in 1995 by Stephen Brooks, with a dedication to sustainable education and alternative solutions, Punta Mona has hosted thousands of students of all ages and from all over the world. Our mission is to expose all people who visit Punta Mona to the ideals of Permaculture and educate them about sustainability and alternative lifestyles. The Punta Mona does this while living off the grid where sustainability, conservation of energy and reduction of waste permeate our everyday lives. Our houses are built from local, fallen trees, solar panels provide our electricity, we compost, washing and drinking water is collected rainwater from our water-catchment system and we catch fish by hand-line from kayaks. To support our diet and local communities, we grow over 200 tropical organic fruits, vegetables, herbs, medicinal plants; we shop locally and sell at the farmer’s market in Puerto Viejo.

Located on the isolated jungle-clad coast of the Caribbean there is an abundance of wildlife in this precious eco-system. Our beach is one of the primary nesting locations of the leatherback and hawksbill sea turtles.

The socially diverse Afro-Caribbean and Indigenous cultures with many Europeans and American visitors and ex-patriots add a rich flare to the Punta Mona experience. English and Spanish are spoken at Punta Mona as well as Patois, the Afro-Caribbean English dialect. 

Punta Mona represents a unique educational experience that has much to teach about the things we take for granted. Through hands on projects, problem solving, community dialog and adaptable design concepts students leave Punta Mona with the tools they need for living in and working towards a more sustainable world.

* Costa Rican citizen/resident prices available upon request.
Contact: Sarah Wu, Co-Director, onsite Manager & Educator, contact@puntamona.org

* Transportation to and from Punta Mona by boat is NOT included, cost is $10-50 per person, depending on boat load.

* Meals are organic and vegetarian. Eggs and cheese are included and occasional fresh, line caught fish & free range, organic chicken, typically served once per week.

** Internet will be available on sunny days during specified hours.

Attending Staff:

Full Time:
Stephen Brooks: Permaculture Design, Onsite Applications, Triple Bottom Line Business
Sarah Wu: Coordinator, Permaculture, Kitchen Remedies, Plant Medicine
Itai Hauben: Permaculture & Onsite Applications

Part Time:
Melina Hurtado: Permaculture, Beneficial Micro-Organisms

Optional Post Course Permaculture Application at Tacotal Eco Village: January 30- February 5 & June 25-30, 2012
Venture to the Pacific slope and stay at a homesteading, permaculture project consisting of 33 families in the earlier stages of development. Here you can further expand your new found knowledge of Permaculture and Community participation for one extra week. Volunteers will be expected to work 6 hours per day, live amongst member’s of the collective and fully engage in community activities.
Cost: $200, includes all meals. You must provide your own tent for lodging and bedding. ** Please inquire for more information

Sarah Wu
Co-Director, On Site Manager, Herbalist and Educator
Punta Mona Center for Sustainable Living and Education
contact@puntamona.org
www.puntamona.org

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