Plant Survey Team Member

The Friends of the Cobbossee Watershed was founded in 2001 as a citizen grass-roots effort to assist in the protection of local water quality. Within the 217 square mile area of the Cobbossee Watershed, there are 28 major lakes and ponds; five of which are currently known to be infested with Aquatic Invasive Plants. The Friends educational and conservation programs aim to manage two major concerns in our watershed: Aquatic Invasive Species and Non-Point Source pollution.

The Friend’s Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) program utilizes plant surveys to detect invasive species early and methodically, to better coordinate rapid response and management efforts. The Plant Survey crew works with the Coordinator and Director of Conservation to survey non-infested and infested waterbodies in the Cobbossee Watershed.

This crew of 6 to 8 individuals, uses paddle craft to perform daily surveys weather permitting and can expect to start work in June and end in August schedule permitting. Some flexibility is available for the right candidates. On-the-job training provided. The Friends are seeking a responsible and team-oriented person to fulfill the position of Plant Survey crew at $16.00/hour for approximately 20 to 30 hours/week.

Qualifications:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, particularly with the public.
• Attention to detail in filling out data forms, creating reports, and following plant survey plans.
• Ability to work as a team and maintain a positive and friendly attitude.
• Work with the Coordinator and Director of Conservation to cover priority locations.
• Available June to August, work may be available into September.

Responsibilities include:

• Communicate daily with the Director in scheduling surveys, planning activities, and coordinating getting the team to each launch location.
• Represent the Friends in a positive and friendly manner at all times.
• Submit survey data as a team and help with promoting the work done by the team.
• Help with maintenance and cleaning of daily equipment.
• Fulfill other duties as assigned to further the mission of the organization.

Additional skills:

• Familiarity with paddle craft and safe practices on lakes.
• Familiarity/interest with botany and/or plant identification, aquatic species a bonus.
• High energy level with a positive attitude.
• Knowledge of/interest in environmental issues, with a focus on watershed ecology and invasive species.