Conservation Technical Assistance Program (CTAP) Coordinator (Formerly MAEAP Coordinator)

Date: November 18, 2024
Title: CTAP Coordinator
Location: Ottawa Conservation District, 16731 Ferris St, Grand Haven, MI 49417
Position Details: This is a full-time, grant-funded position with benefits, with the intention for annual grant renewal.
Start Date: January
Compensation: $22-25/hour, based on qualifications
Benefits: Health care coverage for up to $5,000 per fiscal year (as budgeted in the grant), 5% gross pay retirement stipend, paid federal holidays, paid annual and sick leave
Closing Date: December 16, 2024, 5:30 PM

Position Description:

The CTAP Coordinator furthers the mission of the Ottawa Conservation District through the administration of the Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) and the Regenerative Agriculture Program. The CTAP Coordinator is responsible for delivering on-farm technical assistance in Ottawa County, MI. This includes conducting farm-specific risk assessments; coordinating local, state, and federal agency resources to help farmers reduce environmental risks; developing conservation plans; assisting farmers in achieving MAEAP verification; and promoting regenerative management goals. The CTAP Coordinator also collaborates with Conservation District staff to promote MAEAP and educate diverse audiences on the importance of soil health assessments and improvement in Ottawa County.

For more information on the specific tasks and responsibilities of this position, see the CTAP Coordinator Position Description.

Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, natural resource management, or a related field from an accredited college or university is required.
• A minimum of two years of experience in agriculture or natural resource fieldwork is preferred.
• Knowledge of and experience working with agricultural producers and practices is preferred.
• Experience in collaborating on, developing, and delivering agricultural education programs to diverse audiences.
• Experience building partnerships with various stakeholders.

Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Strong interpersonal skills; able to relate effectively to diverse clientele and work groups.
• Ability to work independently without direct supervision and as part of a team.
• Able to work efficiently outdoors in varying conditions and terrains.
• Maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Proficient use of PC and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Working knowledge of ArcMap.

Duties:

• Coordinate all aspects of MAEAP in Ottawa County (and occasionally surrounding counties), ensuring familiarity with and adherence to Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) grant agreements and guidelines for conducting the program at the local level.
• Conduct MAEAP risk assessments on Ottawa County farms, greenhouses, and forests as requested by landowners and managers.
• Work with landowners and managers to develop conservation plans to address environmental risks identified during assessments.
• Maintain accurate records and an organized filing system.
• Promote MAEAP, Clean Sweep, pesticide container recycling, equipment calibration, and other stewardship practices through presentations, displays at District and partner events, and communications via social media, print, and other methods.
• Organize at least one MAEAP Phase 1 educational outreach event to provide information on MAEAP principles and fulfill the Phase 1 education requirement.
• Assist landowners in developing emergency management plans for their farms.
• Support landowners with verified Right to Farm complaints in bringing them into conformance with Michigan’s Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).
• Work closely with the United States Department of Agriculture–Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA–NRCS) to provide technical assistance to producers accessing Farm Bill cost-share funds.
• Provide monthly reports and updates to MDARD and the Ottawa Conservation District Board of Directors.
• Attend relevant training sessions and events to stay informed about current issues in agriculture and natural resources.
• Organize and host an annual MAEAP Advisory meeting to discuss accomplishments, identify needs, and set goals for the upcoming year.