LCA is seeking two qualified individuals to provide part-time education and outreach to the recreational users of Bristol Pond and Monkton Pond from June to August 2022. The boat launch steward’s primary responsibility will be interacting with recreational boaters, anglers, and the general public to educate them about aquatic invasive species threats to the watershed and the proper cleaning methods for their recreational equipment. While educating the public, the boat launch steward will also collect survey data on boater behaviors as well as identify and remove invasive species from watercrafts.
Position Overview
Status: part-time, temporary seasonal employee, 20 hours/week
Compensation: $15 per hour
Hire Timeline: Applications no later than 15 April; position runs from June to the end of August, with some flexibility
Position Description
Bristol Pond and Monkton Pond are ecologically diverse ponds, that are popular with anglers, recreational boaters, and wildlife enthusiasts. Currently there are three known aquatic invasive species within Bristol Pond: Eurasian Watermilfoil; European Frogbit; and Brittle Naiad, and three aquatic invasive species at Monkton Pond: Banded Mystery Snails; Eurasian Watermilfoil; and Curly-leaf Pondweed. The boat launch steward will help LCA and our partners prevent aquatic invasive species from infesting other waterbodies in the State and will prevent other aquatic invasive species from being introduced to Bristol Pond and Monkton Pond by educating boaters and the community about invasive species threats and spread prevention techniques. Supervised by the LCA aquatic invasive species project coordinator, primary duties of the boat launch steward include:
· Education of anglers and boaters about aquatic invasive species and how to clean their equipment
· Collecting survey data
· Inspecting watercraft before and after entering the water
· Spreading the message of Clean, Drain, Dry to the public
· Removing and documenting any organic material on watercrafts
Qualifications
Qualified candidates are: well-organized, punctual people who are enthusiastic about working directly with the public; able to communicate effectively in person; capable of performing duties independently and as directed by a supervisor; able to work outdoors in all weather conditions; and attentive to detail. Comfort and enthusiasm with the public and data collection is a must. Experience working with the public is a plus, but not absolutely necessary. A successful candidate will, minimally, have knowledge of natural resources, biology, environmental science, or a related field. The ideal candidate will have a knowledge of angling, fisheries, aquatic ecosystems, and invasive and native species. The boat launch steward must have a reliable cell phone and provide their own transportation to Bristol Pond and Monkton Pond. The Candidate is expected to work 6 hours a day on Fridays and 7 hours a day on Saturdays and Sundays each week and must be available to work holidays. Position runs from June to the end of August, with some flexibility.
About LCA
LCA is a non-profit conservation organization that does sustainability and conservation work in the towns of the middle Lake Champlain Valley. LCA works primarily within the watershed boundaries of the LaPlatte River, Thorp Brook, Kimball Brook, Holmes Brook, McCabe’s Brook, and Lewis Creek to service the watershed towns of Charlotte, Ferrisburg, Hinesburg, Monkton, Shelburne, and Starksboro. We work with towns, governments, and citizens to conserve Vermont’s important landscapes and natural resources. We rely on active citizens and volunteers to collect data, make informed decisions, and implement positive change. See our website: lewiscreek.org for more information.
How to Apply
Submit a cover letter explaining your interest and specific qualifications (specifically detailing your past experience with public outreach and education), plus a resume and contact information for three professional references as PDF documents to Matthew Gorton, Project Coordinator at matthew_gorton@yahoo.com and lewiscreekorg@gmail.com. Applications accepted through June 5, 2022. Please type the position title “Boat Launch Steward” and your last name in the subject line.