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Western Gray Squirrel Ecology Internship
Pacific Biodiversity Institute (PBI) is seeking an intern to assist with state-threatened western gray squirrel surveys in the Methow Watershed during the 2011 field season. The intern will also have opportunities to get involved in other projects and to learn other aspects of conservation science. Read more about our western gray squirrel project.
Project Description
The western gray squirrel (Sciurus griseus) is listed as a state-threatened species in Washington State. The Methow Valley is home to the North Cascades population, one of the last three remaining populations of western gray squirrels in the state. We are continuing our monitoring program, conducting distribution surveys, nest count surveys, and education outreach in the Methow Watershed on the North Cascade western gray squirrel population. Our goals for this project are to continue distribution surveys and relative abundance estimates. These goals will further scientific knowledge about gray squirrel distributions throughout the Methow Valley. Another goal is to outreach to private landowners about western gray squirrel habitat and educate the local community about the about the status, threats and conservation needs of western gray squirrels. See the following web-site to review the State Recovery Plan.
Location: Interns will work out of the PBI office in Winthrop, Washington. Travel will be required to various locations (sometimes remote) in the Methow Valley and possibly the North Cascades Mountains. During some field excursions, camping may be necessary at the location of the field work.
Duration: The position will be for 5 months (June 20 to November 20).
Compensation: Housing and an expense stipend of up to $500 per month will be granted to the intern, depending on financial need and experience. A bedroom is available adjacent to the PBI office, and kitchen/bathroom facilities are provided at the office itself. Travel reimbursement will be granted based on mileage traveled to western gray squirrel field sites with a personal vehicle.
Desired Qualifications: Coursework or experience in some (if not all) of the following areas is necessary Training will be provided in areas you do not have experience in.
- Bachelor of Science degree in Ecology, Conservation Biology, or Wildlife Management, or at least 3 years field experience in at least one of these areas.
- Ability and interest in coordinating a diverse group of volunteers
- Familiarity with eastern Washington dry forest types
- Experience in field biology
- Experience using GPS equipment
- Familiarity with GIS concepts and applications
Other Necessary Qualifications:
- Strong interest in wildlife ecology and management
- Well-organized, especially in preparing for fieldwork and data recording
- Physically fit, positive personality, and self-motivated
- Ability to learn quickly
- Ability to concentrate, output high quality work, and have fun in difficult situations
About Pacific Biodiversity Institute
The mission of Pacific Biodiversity Institute is to develop information and tools to conserve biodiversity and maintain ecological integrity. Central to this mission is sharing of these tools and provision of technical support to public agencies, educational institutions and other non-profit conservation organizations. We conduct scientific research in the fields of ecology, conservation biology and natural resource management. We also engage in a variety of educational activities including generation of ecological data and literature, the organization of scientific conferences and public symposia, and the development of educational materials for community level environmental education.
To apply for this position, please fill out a PBI Internship Application, as well as a Western Gray Squirrel Supplemental Application Form.
Email or regular mail inquiries and applications are encouraged.
Pacific Biodiversity Institute
P.O. Box 298
Winthrop, WA 98862
phone: 509-996-2490
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PO Box 298, 517 Lufkin Lane
Winthrop, WA 98862 509-996-2490