Organization: Boone County Conservation District
About the position:
In Kentucky, there are 121 Conservation Districts working towards the same goal: conserving our natural resources. The Boone County Conservation District (BCCDKY) is the primary entity to provide technical, educational, and financial assistance to private landowners and land users in the conservation, sustainment, improvement, and enhancement of Boone County’s natural resources. BCCDKY works closely with not only landowners, but also with local schools, homeschool groups, scouts, and local, state, and federal organizations.
Intern Job Summary:
In this position, the intern will work alongside conservation professionals to learn the technical, administrative, and educational operations of a Conservation District and assist with summer programs. Intern will assist with all aspects, including direct instruction, for Conservation Kids Camp (students aged 9-12) and LEAF Academy (students aged 13-15), as well as other education and outreach programs thought the summer. This intern will also work closely with the Forest Health intern to collect and analyze wildlife population data from local forests and streams. In addition to the required responsibilities, the intern will have the opportunity to network with local, state, and federal individuals and agencies in the ecological and conservation field, including local non profits, Boone County Parks Department, Sanitation District No. 1, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, and more.
Intern Requirements:
- Sophomore or higher status in a college or university
- Enrolled in environmental studies, education, or related major
- Ability to work in the outdoors during inclement weather and over challenging terrain
- Ability to interact professionally with members of the general public, including K-12 students
- Proficient in Microsoft Office
- General knowledge of ecosystem functions
- Valid Driver’s License
- CPR certification or ability to obtain certification upon hiring
- Ability to work occasional weekends and evenings
- Ability to work independently and with minimum supervision
Duration: Mid-May through early August (approximately 13 weeks)
Hours: Approximately 400 hours total, including some weekends and evenings
Compensation: $3,600 stipend
Report to: Susan Brown, Conservation Education Specialist
DUTIES
Education and Outreach Programs (50%)
- Assist with preparation for two summer day camps, including logistics and materials prep
- Prepare and facilitate activities for summer camp and youth leadership programs
- Assist with set up and take down of camps each day
- Assist with the planning and facilitation of family programs, workshops, and community events, including weekend programs
- Prepare documents and materials for display boards, quarterly newsletters, blogs, and social media posts
Technical Support (30%)
- Assist with technical conservation practices, including invasive species removal, vegetation plantings, and site visits
- Assist with field work for forest health and wildlife monitoring, including mussel and acoustic bat data collection.
Independent Project (15%)
- Develop an independent project related to conservation education to be completed during the internship
Administration (5%)
- Work with staff to organize and inventory district files and supplies
- Attend appropriate staff and board meetings
- Attend appropriate trainings pertaining to job duties, including First Aid and CPR
- Other duties as assigned
To Apply, send cover letter, resume, and three references to susanbrown@bccdky.org by April 3, 2023
Find more information here.
