Opportunity to evaluate the restoration of native plant communities on recently decommissioned roads in Montana and Idaho
Position: Field Assistant, June – August, 2008 Pay rate: DOE $10-14 Description: Road networks directly impact wildlife habitat and water quality, and are vectors for nonnative plant dispersal. Road removal is increasingly being recognized as a first step in the restoration of aquatic and terrestrial habitat. However, there is little information on the ecological impacts of various management activities associated with the restoration of roaded landscapes. This research project is evaluating the rate of establishment by native and nonnative seed mixes on roads that were decommissioned in 2007. Each of these decommissioned roads was hand seeded in autumn of 2007. During the field season of 2008, a field assistant is needed to help quantify the percent cover of graminoid, forb, and shrub species, as well as the cover of ground substrates and physical soil characteristics. Field sites are located in the Kootenai National Forest (Montana) and Clearwater National Forest (Idaho). Due to backcountry location of field sites, extended periods (up to 8 days) will be spent in the field collecting data. Cabin accommodations may be provided for part of the summer, but camping will be necessary at certain locations. This position is best suited for an upper-level undergraduate or recent graduate who is interested in pursuing advanced academic work or a career in plant or forest ecology. Qualifications: • Previous field experience sampling understory vegetation in the Rocky Mountains • Experience living and working outdoors for extended periods of time • Ability to carry 35lb. pack • Desire to work hard, stay focused and be enthusiastic even when it is raining To apply, send the following information as attached documents to Ashley Grant at [EMAIL PROTECTED]: • Cover letter that includes information about your interests, qualifications, and dates of availability • Resume • Copies of college transcripts • Two letters of reference Review of applications will begin on March 15th, 2008 and continue until the position is filled.
