Carbon FarmingIntern

Company: Student Conservation Association
Location: Arlington
Posted on: May 3, 2021

Job Description:

Carbon Farming InternExpected DatesMay 14, 2021toAugust 5, 2021SiteMerck Forest and Farmland CenterPosition IDPO-00731865Merck Forest & Farmland Center (MFFC), Vermonts first environmental conservation organization, is looking for a Carbon Farming Intern to play a key role in working directly with our Farm Manager to advance the institutions sustainable and regenerative agricultural program. At the heart of MFFCs nearly 3200 acres of land is a 60-acre farm focused on permaculture, rotationally grazed livestock, and hay production. The carbon arming interns work will focus on three main priorities:1. Supporting the farm manager in daily and cyclical farm operations2. Researching, presenting, and piloting enhancements to the farms rotational grazing program to promote soil health while maximizing the sequestration and storage of below ground carbon, and3. Working with the Farm and Conservation Managers to identify and implement ecologically sound enhancements to farm operations such as: expanding pollinator habitat, modifying mowing schedules to support grassland birds, managing invasive species, reforesting riparian buffers, etc.Where possible, and as the COVID-19 situation allows, we will also conduct outreach, deliver farm-based educational programming, and engage volunteers in our work. When workforce requires, the Intern may work with other staff, particularly the Executive Director, to assist in a variety of farm-focused projects such as. Ideal candidates will possess:Demonstrated experience navigating and operating safely and effectively both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic, often remote, field-based setting.Ability to follow oral and written directions and maintain quality communication with peers and supervisor.Academic or professional experience with, and interest in: regenerative agriculture, plant science, animal science, sustainability, etc.Experience working with animals.Experience following method-based observation/data collection.Familiarity with conservation/environmental threats and concerns related to agriculture.Positive attitude and ability to adapt to changing work plans and priorities.Ability to lift upwards of 50lbs and hike long distances (as much as 8 miles a day) in a variety of field conditions.Interest and experience in digital communication and written storytelling.Valid drivers license and ability to drive large truck and side-by-side vehicles on rough trail and road. Ability to safely operate gas power tools such as a string trimmer.Experience with Microsoft Oce programs, as well as ArcGIS and use of GPS a plus.Experience with or ability to learn rough carpentry a plus.The intern selected into this position MUST enroll in the AmeriCorps Education Award program. The Education Award is currently valued at $1,638. Location DescriptionMerck Forest and Farmland Centers 3200 acre upland campus in southwestern Vermont is nestled at the northern tip of a 42,000-acre intact forest block in the rugged Taconic Mountains. MFFCs campus features a 60-acre regenerative farm, 3,000 acres of managed woodlands, 35 miles of trail, multiple visitor services and educational facilities, as well as a dozen backcountry cabins and lean-tos.Training ProvidedThe Carbon Farming Intern will receive on-the-job training for all major project areas, and will be eligible for discounted opportunities (as scheduling allows) for a variety of certification courses including wilderness first aid and game of logging.Educational/Recreational OpportunitiesAccess to outdoor recreational opportunities abound in the region, including: multiple storied trout streams, the Appalachian and Long Trails, numerous mountain bike networks, whitewater creeks, quiet lakes and rivers, and endless gravel roads.Handicap Accessible?NoMain Area of FocusSustainabilityEducation, Training & Skills ExpectedBiologysome coursework or experienceEarth Sciencessome coursework or experienceResource Managementsome coursework or experienceConstructioncompetent with supervisionHand Toolscompetent without supervisionWorking with Animalscompetent with supervisionCommunity Engagementcompetent with supervisionFurther DetailsAmeriCorps EligibleEligibleDriving LogisticsValid Drivers License NeededPersonal Vehicle RequiredWhile we are happy to arrange car pooling whenever possible, there is not access to basic amenities via foot, bike, or public transportationHousing or Stipend Provided?YesThe intern will have access to the on-site, rustic shared housing at either the Caretakers Cabin or the Lodge. The Caretakers cabin is located on the farm with easy vehicular access. The cabin features two separate sleeping quarter (a loft and a small bedroom), a full bath, and a main room featuring a kitchen, dining area, and den. The Lodge is a larger, off-the-grid facility located deep in the property without direct vehicular access. The Lodge is a four-bedroom house with a single full bath, an additional outhouse, a full kitchen, and a large den/dining room. Indoor/OutdoorOutdoorUS CitizenshipRequired

Keywords: Student Conservation Association, Arlington , Carbon FarmingIntern, Other , Arlington, Virginia