Conservation and Stewardship Assistant

The Conservation and Stewardship Assistant is responsible for implementation of selected strategies and action steps detailed in the Conservation Action Plan, and various duties associated with preserve stewardship on the 2,039 acre coastal Mashomack Preserve. Primary duties include mechanical and chemical removal of invasive plant species, implementation of forest management practices, trails and facilities maintenance, lawn mowing, and special events set-up and conduct.

• Work with staff and volunteers to implement control/eradication practices on selected invasive species. Control strategies will include the use of herbicides under the direct supervision of a NYS Certified Pesticide Applicator. Additionally, mechanical mowing and/or hand pulling, cutting and digging as appropriate will target select invasive plants, Black & Pale Swallow-wort, Oriental Bittersweet, Black Locust and Japanese Barberry. Assistant will receive training as required under Part 325 of the NY Environmental Conservation Law in the safe handling and application of pesticides as an “Apprentice” under the direct supervision of a certified pesticide applicator.
• Maintain accurate pesticide use records daily.
• Collect vegetation data at permanent plot locations as part of a long-term forest health monitoring study.
• Monitor nesting osprey and bald eagle nests at Mashomack throughout the nesting season. Maintain a detailed record of field notes; inform supervisor of current status on a weekly basis, and prepare an end of season report.
• Assist preserve steward and volunteers with routine lawn mowing, trail maintenance and other facilities management chores. These duties may require strong physical labor and the safe operation of hand tools and power equipment.
• Assist with the implementation of scheduled special events (incl. the Dinner Dance) on preserve property, including preparation, set-up and clean-up.
• Assist with the general operation of the preserve, including maintenance activities, special events, visiting groups and maintaining an on-site presence.