Mt. Hood Stream Inventory job description

Exciting news! I received an email about a potential job next summer doing stream inventories in beautiful Mt. Hood! This is the description for the stream inventory internship for the 2009 season. This internship is run every summer, the only thing subject to change are the exact dates. As it states i'd be driving/camping between Mt. Hood and Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Columbia River Gorge Scenic area. Fresh water systems and watershed health is a crucial aspect in the life cycle (particularly recruitment) of many marine species. While soul searching and finding a place that feels like home it is also important to arm yourself with knowledge that makes you employable. For a oceanographer/marine scientist in the Pacific Northwest, that means fisheries. I hope this job pans out, it would be an amazing experience.

Job Title: Steam Inventory Internship for the Mt. Hood National Forest, Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area (4-6 positions available)

Dates: Begins with training in Pendleton, OR June 15 – 19; Preferable end date: September 25. End date is negotiable but would like 12 week commitment if possible.

Compensation:

• $100/week stipend, paid weekly through electronic deposit • Free housing provided by government • Work-related equipment such as specialized wading boots, waders and general survey gear • One week of Stream Inventory Training in Pendleton, OR (paid for by Government) • Government vehicle provided for travel to and from work site and limited personal needs, i.e. grocery store • Initial reimbursement for mileage from home to worksite (inquire for details)

Work Schedule: 40 hours/week, Monday-Thursday. No work on holidays or weekends expected

General Duties:

• Crews, typically two people, work from mouth to headwater collecting stream data

• This includes data on stream habitats, stream and riparian conditions, fish presence (snorkeling), wildlife sightings, types of management activities (harvest units, water diversions, etc.) and recreational activities

• Substantial travel (using government vehicle) may be required from a main base as stream sites are spread over three forests. Camping may be used to cut down on travel time. Limited camping gear is available

• The job teaches data collection methods using a documented Stream Inventory Protocol and encompasses many disciplines such as fisheries, ecology, botany, wildlife, and hydrology.

Qualifications – Internship Requirements:

• Ability to hike long distances over varied terrain (brushy, steep slopes, etc.), including streams and slippery surfaces. Willingness to work in all types of weather conditions.

• Interest or education in fisheries, ecology, botany, wildlife, hydrology or any related field recommended but not required.

• Willingness to learn and desire to be an integral member of a survey team with the USDA Forest Service.

• Interest in gaining experience working in the forest and seeing the interactions of streams and the landscape.