The Wilds Restoration Ecology Project
Member Description 2018-19
Skills and Qualifications: Understanding of ecological issues and a concern
for improving the environment is necessary; some knowledge of plant
identification or restoration ecology techniques preferred. This position
requires the ability to work both independently and in a team setting.
Excellent organizational and communication skills, the ability to work
under deadline pressure and the ability to handle multiple tasks are
paramount to succeeding in this position. Knowledge of MS Office software
packages and general computer skills are required with experience in GIS
preferred. Must have high school diploma or GED, B.S. in ecology or related
field preferred. AmeriCorps member must possess the ability to work
outdoors in adverse weather conditions (heat, cold, insects, etc.), be able
to carry 40 pounds and to walk extended distances over rough terrain.
Ability to speak in public setting is required. Must have own
transportation and valid drivers license. Usual hours of service will be M-
F during regular office hours of 8:00-5:00pm. The ability to serve flexible
hours, including some evenings and weekends, is needed. Hours may
fluctuate, increase or decrease, in consideration of seasonal changes such
as inclement weather or other extended activities.
Location:
The Wilds, Cumberland, OH.
The Wilds is North America’s largest conservation center and consists
almost entirely of reclaimed mining land. It is managed jointly as a
zoological park for the maintenance and captive breeding of globally
imperiled species and as a conservation site for native plants and
wildlife. Therefore, one of our major objectives is restoration of native
ecosystems on site. Our restoration work focuses on establishing native
prairies and planting forests, maintaining and improving existing
ecosystems through invasive species removal, prescribed burns, and planting
native species. Furthermore, we monitor ecosystem responses to restoration,
which include survey and monitoring for a wide variety of species including
plants, butterflies, grassland birds, amphibians, mesocarnivores, and in
ecosystems such as wetlands, streams, forests, and grasslands.
Duties and responsibilities of the AmeriCorps Member:
1. Implement habitat improvements through activities such as invasive
plant management, native plantings, and prescribed burns.
2. Monitor ecosystem recovery through vegetation and wildlife surveys,
environmental monitoring, photo point collection.
3. Track riparian restoration through macroinvertebrate and fish
surveys, identification, and calculation of IBI scores.
4. Organize, research, and process survey data, write reports
summarizing findings.
5. Participate in project planning and implementation through meetings
and field studies.
6. Use GPS & GIS to make maps and assist with monitoring efforts.
7. Enhance skills and knowledge applicable to position through
participation in
workshops, conferences and training
8. Complete 2 activity reports monthly, required timesheets and
monthly reports in
The OnCorps system online system
9. All other duties as assigned within the limitations of this member
description.
Additional Information:
No public transportation is available.
Position requires hiking and some physically demanding tasks, including
outdoor work throughout the seasons. This may include hot, buggy, cold or
otherwise challenging conditions. Participants should be prepared with
appropriate field gear / foot wear.
For more information, visit: https://bit.ly/2KRg4AO
How to Apply to OSRC
1. Go to my.americorps.gov; Click “Apply to Serve” (bottom of screen)
2. Build an application; you will need two references. Allow time for their
response before submitting.
3. Search Listings for Rural Action or Ohio Stream Restore Corps
4. Click the OSRC name and Apply!
5. You will get a confirmation email with further instructions.
