Internship-Natural Resource Steward

Program Dates: 5/20/2024 – 9/9/2024 

About us: 

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults. Program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, and community green spaces across the country. 

Program Description: 

Join our seasonal staff at the Moose River Plains Wild Forest in the Central Adirondack Park of northern New York to fill your summer with outdoor adventure and career development! 

* This position requires that you become enrolled in AmeriCorps.  If you are selected for this program please be sure to accept AmeriCorps during the SCA offer process.  No travel allowance will be offered for this position even if it is stated on your confirmation of acceptance.* 

The Student Conservation Association, in collaboration with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, seeks to place a cohort of 2 Natural Resource Stewards in the Moose River Plains Recreation Area. This area is a unique Adirondack land unit which includes 140 roadside tent sites and a robust trail system providing access to remote backcountry lakes and ponds.  

Trail and campsite maintenance is a large component of this position. Applicants will be provided housing and a vehicle to patrol the area road system and act as caretakers of the property performing facility maintenance. This position is ideal for independent individuals or those looking to gain skills needed for a career in recreation management. Selected candidates will gain valuable resource management experience and perform a variety of duties which involve the preservation, protection and enhancement of the natural resources and the safety and well-being of the public using these resources. 

Housing: Housing will be provided at the remote Cedar River Flow Headquarters Cabin, 17 miles from the Village of Indian Lake. The two-bedroom cabin will house two Natural Resource Stewards.  

Amenities are limited and include a propane refrigerator, and range/stove, 2 queen size beds, and limited electricity.  

Running water is not available, though potable water will be provided regularly and there is an outhouse adjacent to the cabin. Hot showers and flush toilets are available daily at any of the nearby State Campgrounds. Wi-Fi and cell service is available in the Village of Indian Lake, 17 miles from the cabin.  You will have a DEC issued radio for daily check in, check out and emergencies.    

Travel: This site requires you have a personal vehicle for travel on personal time and for travel, but a DEC vehicle will be made available to you for the daily patrols of the Moose River Plains and the surrounding area. 

Member Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Inspect campsites and trails to determine condition and maintenance needs
• Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs to campsite and trail facilities using hand tools
• Mow and trim around campsites and camping areas
• Team up with DEC staff on larger trail work projects as needed
• Provide radio communications for emergency operations

Member Benefits: 

$200/week living allowance 
$570/month housing allowance if housing is not provided 
$80 reimbursement for work pants 
$1,824 AmeriCorps Education Award upon successful completion of your term of service 
 
Eligibility for Federal Student Loan forbearance and interest payment deferment through AmeriCorps for qualifying student loans. 
 
*All Allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

Member Qualifications: 

Requirements to Serve: 

• Must be 18 years or older
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Must have a personal vehicle
• Must be a Citizen, National or Lawful Permanent Residing Alien of the US
• Must be physically capable of performing field work common to the assigned work area over rough terrain and during inclement weather

Preferred Qualifications/Required Skills: 

• Ability to hike long distances with gear/tools
• Ability to work independently and in all weather conditions
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and use hand tools
• Ability to work effectively in a low supervision environment
• Ability to work solo or in a team
• Ability to work in remote areas and in sometimes challenging conditions