[ECOLOG-L] Technological Progress, the Economy, and the Environment
See this week's Daly News feature, Technological Progress for Dummies, Part II. In this column, also called More than One Kind of Nut, Brian Czech explains in plain language why the conflict between economic growth and environmental protection cannot be reconciled by technological progress. Hold onto your ratchet! http://steadystate.org/technological-progress-for-dummies-part-ii/ Thanks, Rob
[ECOLOG-L] UNEP Policy Series: Putting Ecosystem Managment in the Vision of Africa's Development: Towards a sustainable Green Economy
Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the 7th issue of the UNEP Policy Series on Ecosystem Management titled: “Putting Ecosystem Management in the Vision of Africa’s Development: Towards a sustainable Green Economy”. This paper is available at: http://unep.org/ecosystemmanagement/Portals/7/Putting%20Ecosystem%20Management%20in%20the%20Vision%20of%20Africa%E2%80%99s%20Development-Policy%20Paper.pdf This paper demonstrates the foundational significance of ecosystems for human well-being in the African region. It highlights some of the key policy challenges and opportunities in ecosystem management; and makes some recommendations for enhancing capacity of policy makers in the region. It is hoped that this paper will stimulate discussion and debate on how in the effort to prevent and reverse degradation of ecosystems and the services they provide, the continent can promote and utilise healthy ecosystems to support a sustainable and more climate-resilient development path. Coming just before RIO+20 in June 2012, this policy brief will also contribute to the discourse on managing Africa’s ecosystems whilst fostering a better understanding and appreciation of their importance. Enjoy the read Richard Richard Munang (Ph.D)|Policy Advisor Climate Change Adaptation Development | United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) ( +254 20 762 5727 |richard.mun...@unep.org ü www.unep.org |ü www.ccdare.org
[ECOLOG-L] US Regional Association of the International Association for Landscape Ecology (US-IALE) Annual Meeting (US-IALE) Registration is now live
We are now accepting registration for the 2012 US-IALE Annual Meeting. This years meeting is April 8-12 and will be in Newport, RI Visit http://www.usiale.org/newport2012/registration for details and a link to our online registration form. Cheers, Jeff Hollister US-IALE 2012 Program Chair
[ECOLOG-L] job listing - Audubon Conservation Mgr, Columbus OH
The Grange Insurance Audubon Center in Columbus Ohio is hiring a Conservation Manager. Seeking expertise in avian ecology, bird-banding, GIS, conservation planning, etc. See details : https://employees-audubon.icims.com/jobs/1257/job Please do not contact me for job details, I am posting this as a favor to the local Audubon center. -- Kim Landsbergen Ph.D., Certified Senior Ecologist Associate Professor, Columbus College of Art Design Visiting Research Scholar, EEOB, The Ohio State University CarbonEcology Consulting LLC, Owner
[ECOLOG-L] Internship Posting
*Blue Hill Bay Coastal Monitoring Intern 2012* The Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI), a nonprofit organization based in Blue Hill, Maine, is recruiting to fill a Coastal Monitoring Internship position for the field season 2011. This is a full-time position requiring an 8 month commitment from May through December. MERI is a scientific research and education organization dedicated to understanding the impacts of environmental pollutants on wildlife and human health, and to interpreting this information to a broad audience. Current projects include a marine coastal monitoring initiative and a long-term eco-toxicological investigation of northwestern Atlantic harbor seals. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual working toward a career in coastal marine ecology, natural resource sciences, or conservation biology to gain practical experience in the field and in the lab. The ideal candidate will possess a personal interest in marine ecology and ecosystem monitoring and a commitment to the mission of the organization. *Primary Job Responsibility* This position will involve assisting the Research Department with the implementation of the *Blue Hill Bay Coastal Monitoring Project*. Primary responsibilities will include water quality sampling at fresh and marine water sites, phytoplankton monitoring and identification, laboratory water chemistry analysis, invasive species collection and identification, monitoring pinniped haul out sites and behavior, crewing MERI’s green research vessel, data entry and basic data analysis. Additional duties may include assisting with research outreach activities. *Job Description: * - Conduct in-situ water quality monitoring using a DataSonde multi probe and sample collection at marine and freshwater sites throughout the Blue Hill Bay watershed - Collect biological samples in the field and identify them in the lab - Prepare for each field day by calibrating and maintaining field instruments - Perform lab chemistries and bacterial assays following established standard operating procedures and quality assurance protocols - Monitoring and recording pinniped haul-out sites and behavior - Assist with data entry, updating field logs and lab maintenance - Help run the volunteer water quality monitoring program - Assist with preparation of result summaries, reports, fact sheets and presentations - Be responsible for the education and training of junior interns and students in monitoring techniques - Articulate and promote the MERI mission to the public - Perform other duties relating to the organization's goals and mission as required *Reports to:** * Monitoring Project Coordinator * * *Qualifications** *** Applicants should possess a BS or MS degree in marine ecology, environmental sciences, marine biology, conservation biology or a related major. Marine field and laboratory experience, and basic boating skills are required. Experience with spectrophotometers and multi-parameter probes and a familiarity with environmental sampling methods and statistics are preferred. Experience identifying phytoplankton and coastal invasive species is desirable. Applicants must also be able to work outside in a variety of environmental conditions. They must also be comfortable working on a marine research vessel and be available to work occasional nights, weekends, and holidays as needed. Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel is required; photography, statistics (SPSS), Microsoft Access, EndNote and graphics experience is desirable. Knowledge of Gulf of Maine marine phytoplankton species is recommended. Applicant must possess a valid driver’s license and a good driving record. Only US citizens should apply. Position requires some physical activity and applicant should be able to lift up to 40 lbs, walk carrying fragile equipment on uneven ground. *Time Requirements:** *May - December (Flexible start) Full-time (40 hours/week); additional hours to be agreed upon by employee and Director. Possibility of extension. *Compensation: *Stipend and shared housing in Blue Hill, Maine. Housing is within walking distance to Marine Environmental Research Institute. Interns are responsible for all travel expenses and food. *To Apply: *If you are interested in applying for this position, please state where you found the internship posting and submit a cover letter, resume, three references with the subject line “Coastal Monitoring Internship” by April 1 st to: Meggan Dwyer, Coastal Monitoring Coordinator at mdw...@meriresearch.org* * Please, no phone calls. Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI) PO Box 1652, 55 Main Street Blue Hill, ME 04614 Website: www.meriresearch.org MERI is an Equal Opportunity Employer -- Coastal Monitoring Coordinator Marine Environmental Research Institute 55 Main St. Blue Hill, ME 04614 207-374-8980 www.meriresearch.org -- Coastal
[ECOLOG-L] SHOREBIRD FIELD ASSISTANTS needed for study on stopover ecology in Northeastern China
SHOREBIRD FIELD ASSISTANTS needed for study on stopover ecology in Northeastern China Location: Dandong (Yalujiang River estuary), Liaoning, China. Duration: March 25- May 25, 2012 Job type: Seasonal Application deadline: Feb. 28, 2012 Job site: Dandong is a coastal wetland, a Protected Area, and also an Important Bird Area. It is a major staging site for tens of thousands of shorebirds (great knots, bar-tailed godwits, dunlins, etc.) along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. Dandong is a hot-spot for migrants and provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness thousands upon thousands of shorebirds, as well as other Palearctic/Oriental birds. Job description: We are looking for TWO volunteers to help conservation scientists monitor and research shorebirds along the East Asian-Australasian flyway. As a research assistant, you will work in a group of 5-7 people and assist in the following tasks: 1) a radio-telemetry study on the movements of great knots, 2) an assessment of migratory restlessness and orientation of great knots, and 3) measuring and banding shorebirds. In addition, you will be able to experience the unique culture of Northern China and witness first-hand the ancient art of whistling-lures. We will provide board and lodging for the duration of the study, though the assistants are responsible for the costs of travel to and from China. Qualifications: 1) Applicants should be enthusiastic, physically fit, enjoy travel, and be willing to work long hours in the field. 2) Applicants should speak English or Mandarin Chinese. To apply: Please send 1) a cover letter and resume and 2) a letter of recommendation from a professional to the following email addresses: zhij...@fudan.edu.cn / zhijun.fu...@gmail.com.
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Technological Progress, the Economy, and the Environment
All he attempts to persuade one of is that the planet has a limited amount of resources and that therefore economic growth cannot continue indefinitely. This just seems to be a trivial truism (whatever view one has of technology, and even if one has no view whatsoever concerning technology!). The nature of what constitutes ‘environmental protection’ (which is itself a contested and multi-faceted concept) and how this relates to 'technological progress' is not even touched upon. Neil *An Evolutionary Perspective on the Relationship Between Humans and Their Surroundings: Geoengineering, the Purpose of Life the Nature of the Universe * http://www.cranmorepublications.co.uk/50 On Tue, Jan 17, 2012 at 5:28 AM, Rob Dietz rob_di...@steadystate.orgwrote: See this week's Daly News feature, Technological Progress for Dummies, Part II. In this column, also called More than One Kind of Nut, Brian Czech explains in plain language why the conflict between economic growth and environmental protection cannot be reconciled by technological progress. Hold onto your ratchet! http://steadystate.org/technological-progress-for-dummies-part-ii/ Thanks, Rob
[ECOLOG-L] R-code for power analysis by sampling effort
Greetings List -
About a week ago I posted a message requesting assistance in cleaning up
some R-code for automating power curves at varying sampling effort, and
just wanted to share the informative responses I received. Thanks to all
of the responders and the list for contributing to information sharing.
There were two equally successful approaches, I'll copy the first, which
involves loops, for its simplicity in understanding.
rm(list=ls())
x-c(4,5,5,6,8,7,9,9,7,7,8,6,5,4,6,8) # x is my vector of
samples, in this case the total number of coral species in 16 quadrat
tosses
delta-mean(x)*0.2 # delta is my desired level
of change to detect in the power analysis
quad-2:16 # quad is simply the number
of quadrats sampled, starting with 2 and ending with the total
maxquad-16
MEAN-STDEV-p-rep(0,maxquad-1) # MEAN is your mean
vector,STDEV is the stdev vector, and p is your power vector.
for (i in 2:maxquad){
MEAN[i-1]-mean(sample(x=x,size=i,replace=FALSE))
STDEV[i-1]-sd(sample(x=x,size=i,replace=FALSE))
p[i-1]-power.t.test(i,sd=STDEV[i-1],delta)$power
}
## the plot:
par(mfrow=c(3,1))
plot(quad,MEAN)
plot(quad,STDEV)
abline(h=(mean(x)*0.3), lty=3)
plot(quad,p,ylab=POWER)
The second approach, which I was rightfully informed is computationally
much faster in R, identifies a matrix, then fills it. However, for this
exercise, computation time is not really a factor.
x-c(35, 27, 32, 38, 36); delta-mean(x)*0.3; quad-1:5; maxquad-5
rSamples=apply(X=matrix(nrow=maxquad,ncol=maxquad,data=x),MARGIN=2,FUN=sample,x,size=maxquad,replace=F)
rSamples[lower.tri(rSamples,diag=F)]=NA
rMeans=colMeans(rSamples,na.rm=T)
rSD=sd(rSamples,na.rm=T)
Cheers,
Peter
--
Peter Houk, PhD
Chief Biologist
Pacific Marine Resources Institute
www.pacmares.com
www.micronesianfishing.com
[ECOLOG-L] How to live-tweet a conference: a guide for conference organizers and interested twitter users. Feedback requested from the scientific community
Hello, everyone! I recently wrote a blog post about live-tweeting scientific conferences, which is discussing conference presentations on twitter as they occur. This allows interested members of the general public from all over the world to follow along, learn, and even participate (I've been able to relay questions from my twitter followers to presenters at conferences). The blog post provides advice for conference organizers on how to promote live-tweeting, and advice for twitter users to use the tool to maximum effect. My goal is to host a discussion between conference organizers, scientists who use twitter, and members of the general public who are interested in science and conservation but don't attend conferences. Eventually, I hope that this blog post and discussion can help promote live-tweeting at future conferences. In order for that to happen, your feedback on this post is essential. I'd appreciate it if people interested in this topic could take a few minutes to read through my list of suggestions and strategies, and participate in the discussion by commenting on the blog post. I would also appreciate it if you could forward this e-mail to colleagues who may be interested in the discussion. The post can be found here: http://www.southernfriedscience.com/?p=12120 Thank you very much for your assistance! Sincerely, -- *David Shiffman* *Ph.D. Student, Research Assistant,* Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy http://www.cesp.miami.edu/ R.J. Dunlap Marine Conservation Program http://rjd.miami.edu/ [image: RJD] *e: *david.shiff...@gmail.com | *p: *412.915.2309 *a: *4600 Rickenbacker Cswy, Miami, Florida, 33149 *t: *@WhySharksMatter http://twitter.com/#!/WhySharksMatter | *b: *Southern Fried Science Blog http://www.southernfriedscience.com/
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Tropical Conservation, Permaculture Research Internship in Ecuador
I can vouch for this; I did this internship in August-September 2011. These folks at 3M Alliance are great folks to work with, and if you plan your project well, you will learn a lot. I might also add that if any scientists are interested in cataloguing the biodiversity of this little-explored bioregion, I have it from Jerry Toth himself that he would be interested in hosting such an expedition. Recently, a herpetologist discovered two new species of frogs there. Jason Hernandez Returned 3M Intern -- Date: Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:32:15 -0500 From: =?ISO-8859-1?Q?Gerald_Toth?= jerryt...@hotmail.com Subject: Tropical Conservation, Permaculture Research Internship in Ecuador A few years ago, a few of us – ecology, economics, and business graduates – founded a nonprofit organization called Third Millennium Alliance. We raised some money and bought a lot of land in a critically-endangered rainforest and established an ecological reserve. There was a small patch of previously-degraded land right in the middle, where we have built an innovative and surprisingly comfortable research station out of bamboo, by hand. Immediately surrounding the house we are designing/growing/building a living laboratory of sustainable resource management (i.e. permaculture). Our goal is 100% food self-sufficiency within 10 years. So far, we’re maybe 20% of the way there. Likewise this is a testing ground for appropriate technology, such as off-the-grid renewable energy, water treatment and management, organic pesticide production, etc. We are also in need of various biological research projects and inventories. Priorities for the Spring Internship include: • Forest mammal inventory with photo trap cameras (on-going project) • GIS mapping of the reserve • Organic pesticide research and development (on-going) • Forest succession research • Entomology (insect) inventory (even if it’s just a partial inventory) • Mushroom propagation system • Implementing of a small-scale aquaculture system If you would like to learn more, please visit our Internship page on our website, where you can download a PDF file which includes a detailed program description, at: http://www.3malliance.org/index.php?id=320 After reading the PDF file, if you would like to apply, send an email to the address listed in the program description. We hope you work with you! Sincerely, Bryan Criswell, Isabel Dávila, Jerry Toth Directors, Jama-Coaque Reserve Third Millennium Alliance Jama, Ecuador www.3malliance.org --
[ECOLOG-L] help finding a small amount of mussel tissue standard
Hello ECOLOGGERS, I am hoping to find a source for a small amount of an NIST standard SRM 1566b - Oyster Tissue for a student's thesis project. We need much less than the amount sold by NIST and are hoping to save money by finding a source for a smaller amount. Specifically we are looking for 1-2 g and would be willing to pay $100 to $200. If anyone has any suggestions, we would appreciate it very much! Camille McNeely Assistant Professor, Biology Eastern Washington University Cheney, WA
[ECOLOG-L] Job Announcement: 8 biological science technician positions with the National Park Service
The Northern Great Plains Inventory Monitoring Network (NGPN) is recruiting 8 seasonal biological technicians. Six positions will be GS- 0404-05 ($15.00/hour) and two positions will be GS-0404-06 ($16.73/hour). NGPN was established to develop and provide scientifically credible information on the current status and long-term trends of the composition, structure, and function of ecosystems in thirteen national park units in North and South Dakota, eastern Wyoming, and Nebraska (for more information see: http://science.nature.nps.gov/im/units/ngpn/index.cfm). The technicians will be duty stationed at the Network office in Rapid City, South Dakota, where there is no government housing available. The term of the positions will not exceed 1,039 hours (~ 6 months), and are expected to begin in Spring/Summer 2012, and extend through Summer/Fall 2012. All applicants must apply for positions through USAJOBS. See below for more information and links to the applications for each of the positions. Biological Science Technician (Plants) GS_06: 2 vacancies DEADLINE: 1/27/2012 The Biological Technician (plants) will help implement a long-term ecological monitoring program for vegetation in 13 park units. The incumbent visits field sites to implement and supervise data collection. The position will involve a combination of office work, field time, and travel to the parks. The incumbent is supervised by the NGPN Vegetation Ecologist and assists both the Ecologist and Lead Biological Technician in managing and running the field crews. This position works 10-hour days and requires constant travel to parks within Nebraska, Wyoming, South and North Dakota. Crew members will be required to hike off trail with heavy packs, sometimes in extremely hot weather or through thick vegetation. The anticipated field season is May through September, with some office work at the beginning and end of the season. The term will begin in April. This position will assist the Ecologist and Lead Biological Technician for plant monitoring in the following tasks: 1. Supervising plant data collection using established network monitoring protocols. 2. Accurately identifying Northern Great Plains vegetation to the species level in the field or in the office using standard floras. 3. Training crew members in appropriate data collection, entry, and verification methods. 4. Conducting fieldwork in remote backcountry settings and under difficult conditions in a safe and efficient manner. 5. Ensuring crew safety 6. Entering data and following quality assurance procedures to ensure accurate data transcription into established databases. 7. Maintaining field and camping equipment. To apply and for more details see: http://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/306875600 For more information contact: Isabel Ashton, isabel_ash...@nps.gov * Biological Science Technician (GIS/Data Management) GS_05: 1 vacancy DEADLINE: 1/30/2012 Assist with the development of spatial and non-spatial natural resource datasets in 13 national park units across the Northern Great Plains region, including North and South Dakota, Wyoming, and Nebraska. As part of the data management program, the selectee will gain experience in the use of global positioning system (GPS) and geographic information system (GIS) technologies, centralized natural resource databases, and development of natural resource worldwide web content. The majority of the duties are accomplished in the office setting, but field opportunities will be available assisting Network ecologists with monitoring plants, birds, and prairie dogs. The term of the position will not exceed 1093 hours and will begin in late-March to early-April, 2012. To apply and for more details see: http://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/306764300 For more information contact: Stephen Wilson, stephen_k_wil...@nps.gov *** Biological Science Technician (Plants) GS_05: 4 vacancies DEADLINE: 2/1/2012 The Biological Technicians (plants) will help implement a long-term ecological monitoring program for vegetation in 13 park units in the Northern Great Plains. The incumbents visit field sites to collect extensive monitoring data on grasses, forbs, trees and shrubs, (identifying them to the species level) and fuel loads. The position will involve a combination of office work, field time, and travel to the parks. These positions work 10-hour days and require constant travel to parks within Nebraska, Wyoming, South and North Dakota. Crew members will be required to hike off trail with heavy packs, sometimes in extremely hot weather or through thick vegetation. The position will spend approximately 10-20% of time performing computer and office work, the majority of which will be done after the field season. The anticipated field season is May through September, with some office work at
[ECOLOG-L] internship posting
*Marine Education Intern * The Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI), located in Blue Hill, Maine, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to scientific research and education on the impacts of pollution on marine life, and to protecting the health and biodiversity of the marine environment for future generations. We are currently offering three Marine Education Internships for the 2012 Summer. These are full-time positions requiring a commitment of 11 weeks (June 18th – August 31st). Current work includes community-based marine education programs, water quality monitoring, and field research on the effects of pollution on marine mammals. MERI's education programs focus on marine life along the rocky Maine coast and promoting environmental awareness and stewardship. A marine education internship is an excellent opportunity for an individual working toward a career in marine science education or environmental education to gain practical experience in the field. The ideal candidate will possess a personal interest in the marine environment and a commitment to the mission of the organization. *Primary Job Responsibility: * This position will involve working closely with senior Education Staff in key components of the MERI education program, including leading boat and island ecology trips for children and adults, planning and implementing educational science materials for adult and child community programs, assisting with teen programming, and assisting with the day-to-day operation of the MERI Center for Marine Studies. *Job Description: * Assist with the implementation of educational programming, including educational boat cruises, Teens for Healthy Oceans Program, MERI's Summer Classes, Ocean Story Hour, Ocean Video Night, and Ocean Aquarium Room programs. · Interpret exhibits in the Ocean Aquarium Room to visiting groups and the general public · Assist with day-to-day operation of the MERI Center for Marine Studies, including staffing the reception desk and the Ocean Room, and attending some weekend and evening programs and special events · Help maintain Ocean Aquarium, including collection of species for exhibit in the tanks · Work with Education Department staff and volunteers to reorganize and catalogue the Sea Lending Library · Compile background information, assist with production of Fact Sheets, Teaching Kits and informational materials as assigned and for an individual project subject area · Articulate and promote the MERI mission to the public · Stock and maintain educational program materials · Set up and clean areas required for educational programs · Perform other duties relating to the organization's goals and mission as required *Reports To:* Education Program Coordinator and Education Director *Time Requirements:* June 18th – August 31st (11 weeks); Full-time (min. 40 hours/week) *Compensation:* Housing in Blue Hill and a stipend are available. A common house is used, where interns live together and are responsible for cooking and cleaning duties. Rooms may be shared with one other person. Interns are responsible for all travel expenses and food. *Qualifications: * Applicants should be working towards or possess a BA or BS degree (Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors are encouraged to apply) in environmental education, marine sciences, biology, environmental sciences or a similar major. Applicants should demonstrate enthusiasm for teaching science-related topics and preferably have experience teaching science to groups of students, ages 2-18. Applicants should be able to work well independently and as part of a team. Good public speaking and writing skills are required. Applicants must be flexible, able to adapt to a changing work environment, and at times, be available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Word, Power Point, Excel required. Must possess a valid drivers license, and a good driving record. Knowledge of First Aid, CPR, and water safety is a plus. *Deadline: opened until positions filled* *To Apply:* Please state where you found the internship posting and send a cover letter, resume and contact information for three (3) references by e-mail to Martha Bell, Education Director at mb...@meriresearch.orgmb...@meriresearch.org?subject=Marine%20Education%20Internship . -- Coastal Monitoring Coordinator Marine Environmental Research Institute 55 Main St. Blue Hill, ME 04614 207-374-8980 www.meriresearch.org
[ECOLOG-L] Job Posting - Education Coordinator
EDUCATION COORDINATOR Grand Traverse Conservation District Traverse City, MI The Grand Traverse Conservation District (GTCD) is seeking a full-time Education Coordinator. The Education Coordinator will work in partnership with GTCD staff, volunteers and supporters to promote the GTCD’s mission of inspiring the exploration, appreciation and conservation of the natural world.They will develop, deliver and provide for the ongoing vitality of environmental education programs and exhibits at the Boardman River Nature Center and throughout the community. For a full position description, requirements and application materials, visit http://natureiscalling.org/vacancy-announcements/. Applications are due February 3, 2012.
[ECOLOG-L] Please post SERC summer internships
Environmental Internship Opportunities at SERC for summer 2012 The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) in Edgewater, Maryland offers undergraduate and beginning graduate students a unique opportunity to gain hand-on experience in the fields of environmental research and education. The program enables students to work on specific projects while getting experience in valuable lab techniques all under the direction of the Center's professional staff. The program is tailored to provide the maximum educational benefit to each participant. SERC is focused on understanding the causes and consequences of environmental change for marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems. Interns at SERC conduct independent projects over 12-16 weeks utilizing our 2,650 acre research site on the shores of Chesapeake Bay to provide novel insights into some of the most profound issues challenging our world today, including habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species. The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center has maintained an REU site since 2001 and those students sponsored have used our professional-training programs as a stepping stone to pursue advanced careers in the environmental sciences. How to Apply Application to the SERC Internship Program consists of a registration form, transcripts, personal essay, CV or resume, and two letters of recommendation using the Smithsonian On-line Academic Appointment (SOLAA) system at: https://solaa.si.edu/solaa/solaahome.html Application deadlines are listed below: Summer (May-August): Deadline is February 1st For more information please visit our web site at www.serc.si.edu/pro_training/index.aspxhttp://www.serc.si.edu/pro_training/index.aspx The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer Students from under-represented groups or institutions lacking research facilities or research opportunities are especially encouraged to apply. However, all other interested students are encouraged to apply. Daniel E. Gustafson, Jr. Smithsonian Environmental Research Center Professional Training Volunteer Coordinator 647 Contees Wharf Rd PO Box 28 Edgewater, MD. 21037 443.482.2217 (phone) 443.482.2380 (fax) gustafs...@si.edumailto:gustafs...@si.edu www.serc.si.edu/pro_training/index.aspxhttp://www.serc.si.edu/pro_training/index.aspx www.facebook.com/#!/groups/262138437177090/http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/262138437177090/
[ECOLOG-L] Assistant Volunteer Coordinator
Working collaboratively with Lake Mead National Recreation Area (LMNRA), the Great Basin Institute is seeking an Assistant Volunteer Coordinator. The Assistant Volunteer Coordinator is responsible for volunteer program administration, event management and community outreach/ recruitment. Volunteers will be managed to accomplish a variety of duties that involve stewardship of the Mojave Desert ecosystem and/or engaging visitors to lend a hand while learning about LMNRA sensitive ecosystem. The position will work with Lake Meads Volunteer Program Staff as a team member to continue to build a cohesive and robust volunteer program. The Assistant Volunteer Coordinator will be responsible for administering existing established programs within Lake Meads Volunteer-In-Parks program. This position will require travel throughout the LMNRA to engage the gateway communities and Park visitors to become better stewards. The position requires the Assistant to work a Tuesday through Saturday schedule. Compensation and Timeline: o Rate of Pay: $15.00/hour o March 2012 March 2013; possibility of extension pending funding availability and positive performance review. o Full time, 40 hours per week including occasional holidays and weekends (overtime may be required occasionally) Location: o Lake Mead NRA (Boulder City, NV). Work is performed both indoors in an office setting and outdoors when performing duties in the park. Outside work may be performed under extreme weather conditions with temperatures ranging from 20 to 115 degrees and altitudes ranging from 1000 to 10,000 feet elevation. Qualifications: o Bachelors degree in management or related coursework and commensurate field experience; o Experience developing and implementing volunteer programs and knowledge of planning and coordinating both short and long-term work projects, often projecting a year or more in advance, including creating work schedules, determining labor needs, materials, tools, and facility requirements; o Motivated, self-starter who is detail oriented; o Flexibility to handle competing and changing priorities; o Ability to speak English and Spanish conversationally, desirable but not required; o Ability to work in harsh and rapidly changing environments; o An exemplary knowledge of oral communication techniques and program presentation o An exemplary knowledge of oral communication techniques and program presentation and knowledge of various computer software programs used for presentations (Power Point), written materials (Word, Page Maker), data management (Excel, Access, File Maker Pro) and communications (Internet, Lotus Notes); o Experience in working with a variety of federal, state and local agencies, the public, business executives, special interest groups, partners and volunteers; o Possess clean, valid, state-issued drivers license; and o Pass a criminal history background check. How to Apply: Qualified and interested applicants should forward a cover letter, their résumé, and a list of three professional references to Bridget Walden, GBI Human Resources Coordinator at bwal...@thegreatbasininstitute.org. Please include where you found this position posted. This program is available to all, without regard to race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or religion. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] CA Trails Interpretive Specialist
CA Trails Interpretive Specialist Spend 6-18 months in Central Nevada working at the California National Historic Trail Interpretive Center in Elko developing interpretive programs surrounding the California Trail experience and its related themes for the general public. The position will contribute to the appreciation and preservation of historic and cultural sites and work to forge strong community partnerships and enhance sustainable tourism in the region. This is a great opportunity to gain experience in the field of interpretation by helping to establish programs and implement the exhibit plan at this brand new facility. Compensation: This is an AmeriCorps position, and candidates will receive a living stipend of $8,000 for the 6-month period. This is not an hourly wage or a salary and is paid to members bi-weekly throughout the 6-month period. Upon completion of AmeriCorps service, members shall receive an additional education award in the amount of $2,775 that can be used for paying off student loans, or paying tuition for a Title IV accredited college. This person will also receive a $1,300 housing stipend spread evenly over each six month contract on a monthly basis. Timeline: The position will begin as soon as March 5, 2012, but applications will be accepted throughout the springtime until the proper candidate is found. The initial position will last approximately 6 months and may be extended for an additional 12-months based on performance evaluations. Description: Assist with event planning and day to day operations of the California Trail Interpretive Center including retail sales in the Trail Center bookstore and assistance with exhibit and grounds maintenance. Develop and present formal and informal interpretive programs to a variety of audiences in costume, in first and third person living history, guided walks, and environmental education programs. Assist with volunteer coordination. Assist with graphic design and development of Brochures and site bulletins. Training: Trail Center staff will provide supervision and interpretive training. Safety, CPR, and First Aid training is mandatory. Training will be provided on the BLM mission and procedures. The opportunity will be available to learn budgeting and procurement. This is a great opportunity to gain experience in all aspects of interpretive center operations starting from the ground up. Equipment: The Trail Center will provide work space, Internet access, period costumes, and props; the Trail Center also has a small resource library on-site. Skills/Qualifications: Knowledge of, or interest in, American history, historic research, and pioneer skills and crafts. Must be a skilled communicator both orally and in writing with a knowledge of, or interest in, interpretive techniques. Knowledge of graphic design is helpful. Must enjoy working with children and adults. A Criminal Background Check is required for this position. AmeriCorps Qualifications: To qualify, you must be over 17 years of age and a US citizen that has received a high school diploma or GED. All offers of employment are conditional upon completion of an acceptable check of the National Sex Offender Public Registry (NSOPR) and federal criminal background check. To Apply: Step 1: Click here: https://my.americorps.gov/mp/listing/viewListing.do?id=43451 Step 2: Click Apply then register. Step 3: Once registered login and complete the application. Step 4: Click the Search Listings link and search under Nevada and Environment. Step 5: Click on the appropriate position title, then hit the Apply Now button at the bottom of the listing. Please direct all questions regarding the application process to Bridget Walden at bwal...@thegreatbasininstitute.org. These AmeriCorps positions are made possible by a generous grant from Nevada Volunteers. This program prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, religion, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, or disability. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Postdoc: effects of Fukushima disaster on songbirds
We are seeking a post-doctoral researcher with expertise in radiation studies and wildlife research to lead a funded project on the effects of the Fukushima nuclear power plant disaster on the local songbird community. Position is for 1 year (renewable for an additional year) and candidate will be expected to begin in late March or early April 2012. He/she will be based out of IRSN (LRE, Cadarache) in France and annual salary is 25-35 k per year. Ideal prior experience includes research in Chernobyl or on experimental animal research on radiation in the lab. Candidate will spend several months in Japan and duties will involve netting/trapping wild songbirds, taking morphological measurements, blood samples for physiological testing, and also include opportunities for expanding the research program in, for example, developmental, behavioral, genetic, and immunological directions. Please submit cover letter, curriculum vitae, and names of two references to Dr. Christelle! Adam-Guillermin (christelle.adam-guiller...@irsn.fr); review of applications will begin immediately.
[ECOLOG-L] M.S. Assistantship on Nitrate Leaching from Cropland
I have a fully funded M.S. assistantship evaluating effects of best management practices on nitrate leaching from agroecosystems in Montana. Specifics follow. Please forward to anyone you know who might be interested. Thank you. Location: Montana State University, Bozeman, MT Preferred Start time: May 2012 Required background: B.S. in soil science, agronomy, or closely related field Preferred qualifications: Ability to interact with a diverse group of individuals including farmers, policy makers, Extension agents, NRCS personnel, and other researchers. Willingness to travel 2 ½ hours from MSU to soil sample and for occasional meetings. Excellent writing skills. Project Description: The Judith Basin watershed in central Montana contains groundwater nitrate concentrations that often exceed drinking water standards. Shallow soils promote nitrate leaching in the region, yet the cause(s) of the contamination has not been identified. The watershed is predominated by cropland and the Natural Resources Conservation Service has established a special project in the watershed to reduce nitrate leaching from cropland by encouraging the adoption of best management practices. Despite providing incentive payments, fewer than ten farmers have enrolled. The overall objectives of our study are to determine 1) the relative contributions of nitrate from natural and human sources, 2) incentives for, and barriers to, adoption of best management practices, and 3) the effects of BMPS on nitrate leaching and fertilizer nitrogen use efficiency. The M.S. student will focus on objective 3 but will be involved in the other 2. The project will use a highly participatory approach to attain input from local individuals prior to determining our final research plan. Questions or to apply: Clain Jones Dept of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences Montana State University cla...@montana.edu 406 994-6076
[ECOLOG-L] Fwd: PRESS RELEASE: Scientists Estimate Up to 6.7 Million Bats Dead From Fast-spreading Disease
For Immediate Release, January 17, 2012 Contact:Mollie Matteson, (802) 318-1487 Scientists Estimate Up to 6.7 Million Bats Dead From Fast-spreading Disease WASHINGTON A mysterious, fast-moving disease has now killed as many as 6.7 million bats in North America over the past six years, according to an estimate released today by bat biologists. The new estimate is dramatically higher than the previous one, dating from 2009, that white-nose syndrome had killed 1 million bats on the continent. The disease was first discovered in upstate New York in 2006 and has spread from Nova Scotia to Tennessee, infecting bat colonies in 16 states and four provinces. This number confirms what people working on white-nose syndrome have known for a long time that bats are dying in frighteningly huge numbers and several species are hurtling toward the black hole of extinction, said Mollie Matteson with the Center for Biological Diversity, which has filed several petitions to save bats and stem the spread of the disease. We have to move fast if were going to avoid a complete catastrophe for Americas bats. The new mortality estimate which ranges from 5.7 million to 6.7 million was agreed upon by biologists who met last week at the Northeast Bat Working Groups annual meeting in Pennsylvania, one of the states hit hardest by the bat die-off. The grim figure follows recent news that a few surviving bats were confirmed in Vermont this past summer a discovery that had buoyed hopes that some individuals may have resistance to the devastating disease, meaning they could possibly form the nucleus of a future recovery effort. Overall populations of affected bat species in places like Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania and other parts of the Northeast are down 70 percent to 98 percent since 2006, which also makes the populations more vulnerable to other threats, such as habitat loss, human persecution and environmental contaminants. The outbreak is the worst wildlife disease epidemic in North Americas history. Congress recently directed the Department of the Interior to allot $4 million for research and management of the disease. Americas bats are in the throes of an unprecedented crisis and some species face the very real prospect of extinction, Matteson said. While its heartening to see some money allocated for white-nose syndrome, todays new mortality estimates are a wake-up call that we need to do more, and fast. White-nose syndrome has affected six bat species so far; it kills them during their hibernation period, when they occupy caves and mines in a state of suspended animation. The affected bats are insect eaters; their hibernation is a response to a lack of prey available during the winter months. The loss of so many bug-eating bats has likely had an impact on insect populations, including those that are pests on crops. Scientists have estimated that bats save farmers between $3.7 billion and $53 billion per year on pesticides that did not have to be used on crops like corn, cotton, vegetables and fruit because of the help bats give. Since the bat disease has only shown up in the Midwest and South in the last couple of years, the full effects of declining bat numbers on regions more strongly dominated by agriculture than the Northeast may take some time to show up. The South and Midwest contain some of the largest and most diverse bat colonies in the world. Already one federally endangered bat has been hit by the disease; the Indiana bat has declined by 70 percent in the Northeast since 2006, though it had been on an upward trajectory in that region before the onset of the disease. Scientists fear that as white-nose syndrome spreads in the Midwest, the species core range, the total population of Indiana bats could plummet. Other bat species are at risk too, and three are currently under review by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for addition to the endangered species list due to the threat posed by white-nose syndrome. For more information, go to SaveOurBats.org. ### The Center for Biological Diversity is a national, nonprofit conservation organization with more than 320,000 members and online activists dedicated to the protection of endangered species and wild places. To unsubscribe from this list, please respond to this email with unsubscribe in the subject line. Thank you. ~ Mollie Matteson, M.S. Conservation Advocate Center for Biological Diversity Northeast Field Office PO Box 188 Richmond, VT 05477 802-434-2388 (office) 802-318-1487 (cell) mailto:mmatte...@biologicaldiversity.orgmmatte...@biologicaldiversity.org www.biologicaldiversity.org
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Technological Progress, the Economy, and the Environment
I don't think the point Mr. Czech discusses is quite a trivial truism, since one can point to cases where technological advances can indeed limit the consumption of resources, or otherwise lower environmental impact. For instance, LED lighting uses less engergy than incandescent lighting. Given that such cases exist, it is reasonable to ask how much, across the whole spectrum of technology and the economy, can technologies reduce environmental impact. Additionally, there may be technologies that actually mitigate environmental damage already inflicted. Thus, mathematically at least, it might make sense to speculate that environmental impact can be greatly reduced, if not set back to zero (and if there is a technological breakthrough that can substantially reduce human population, hey, maybe even to zero). I think, however, that Mr. Czech does not use his thousand words very efficiently to make his point, since the article is rather too chatty and short on substance. Additionally his example of wrenches to tighten nuts is not very helpful and is based on a faulty understanding of the history of wrenches. The first wrenches were military tools used to twist the bars out of the portcullises of castles. These wrenches were of necessity open-end wrenches since the attackers had access the bars from the side; they couldn't count on sliding the wrench over the end of the bars, as one must do with a box-end wrench. Box-end wrenches became popular with the rise of the machine age, because in many cases the nuts and bolts of machines can be accessed from the end. These wrenches justify the name box end because they had a simple square of iron at the end of the iron rod that served as the handle. When hex nuts became popular, that gave rise to the six and twelve-point wrenches (whose nut-fitting part no longer looks like a box) that we today call box-end wrenches. However, the monkey wrench, which Mr. Czech implies was used first on nuts, was a later development than the box-end wrench because it has a relatively complex screw-based adjustment system that was much harder for a blacksmith to make than a simple box on a rod. The monkey wrench is probably a good example of a technological development that lowered environmental impact, because its adjustable nature let a mechanic have just a few wrenches instead of one for every possible nut size. Interesting, huh? Martin M. Meiss 2012/1/17 Neil Cummins neilpaulcumm...@gmail.com All he attempts to persuade one of is that the planet has a limited amount of resources and that therefore economic growth cannot continue indefinitely. This just seems to be a trivial truism (whatever view one has of technology, and even if one has no view whatsoever concerning technology!). The nature of what constitutes ‘environmental protection’ (which is itself a contested and multi-faceted concept) and how this relates to 'technological progress' is not even touched upon. Neil *An Evolutionary Perspective on the Relationship Between Humans and Their Surroundings: Geoengineering, the Purpose of Life the Nature of the Universe * http://www.cranmorepublications.co.uk/50 On Tue, Jan 17, 2012 at 5:28 AM, Rob Dietz rob_di...@steadystate.org wrote: See this week's Daly News feature, Technological Progress for Dummies, Part II. In this column, also called More than One Kind of Nut, Brian Czech explains in plain language why the conflict between economic growth and environmental protection cannot be reconciled by technological progress. Hold onto your ratchet! http://steadystate.org/technological-progress-for-dummies-part-ii/ Thanks, Rob
[ECOLOG-L] MS/PhD Fellowship: Macroecological modeling of biodiversity in stream ecosystems
MS/PhD Fellowship: Macroecological modeling of biodiversity in stream ecosystems The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science is seeking a motivated MSc or PhD student interested in modeling patterns of biodiversity in stream ecosystems. The student would join a team of ecologists, remote-sensing scientists, and graduate students working to develop novel statistical methods to map assemblages of fish and benthic macroinvertebrates in Maryland streams and to determine how urbanization has resulted in the loss of stream biodiversity. Within this framework, there are numerous opportunities for a student to extend the broader project objectives to include aspects of stream restoration prioritization, land use change modeling, water quality or stream temperature modeling, analyzing field observations for model validation, or any number of ideas the student is interested in pursuing. A necessary component of the student project involves interfacing with resource managers to ensure project outcomes are of greatest benefit to the conservation of aquatic ecosystems in Maryland. This is an ideal project for an individual interested in working at the interface of theoretical and applied ecology, while developing the following set of skills: - statistical modeling generally and species distribution modeling in particular - spatial analysis, including GIS - remote sensing - Computer programming, with an emphasis on the R statistical language The project is based at the Appalachian Laboratory in Frostburg, Maryland, with Matt Fitzpatrick and Andrew Elmore. Student support has been secured through a fellowship from Maryland Sea Grant. The student will matriculate through the Marine, Estuarine, and Environmental Sciences Program (MEES) at the University of Maryland, College Park. To apply, please email as a single pdf document: (1) a statement of interest, (2) a CV, and (3) contact information for three referees to mfitzpatr...@umces.edu. Review of applications will begin on February 13th, 2012, with a start date of no later than Fall semester 2012. This ad is also posted at http://sites.google.com/site/mcfitzpatrickpublications/home/opportunities Matt Fitzpatrick Assistant Professor Appalachian Lab 301 Braddock Road Frostburg, MD 21532 Phone: 301.689.7131 Cell: 301.876.1425 http://www.umces.edu/al/people/mfitzpatrick
[ECOLOG-L] Field Technician Position in large-scale field experiment
Multiple field technician positions are available to work within a large-scale experiment on restoration of plant and animal communities in fragmented habitats. Research will include studies of the effects of corridors on various aspects of plant and arthropod dispersal. Tasks will include study site preservation, building, establishment, emptying, and maintenance of traps, and seed / arthropod identification. Opportunities for independent research projects exist for qualified individuals. Technicians will join a team of several principal investigators (Joshua Tewksbury - University of Washington, Lars Brudvig - Michigan State, Tomas Carlo - Penn State, Ellen Damschen and John Orrock - U. Wisconsin - Madison, Nick Haddad North Carolina State U., Doug Levey - University of Florida), postdoc John Herrmann, and several undergraduate and graduate students, and be provided exposure to numerous research questions and approaches. Positions will begin as early as mid-February 2011, and will last for a minimum of three months; however, possibilities for extension exist and applicants are encouraged to indicate dates of availability in their application letter. Pay rate will be $10.00/hr. Technicians will live near New Ellenton, SC, where the field site is located. Successful candidates will hold or be working towards a bachelors degree in ecology, biology, or a related discipline and must be able to endure hot and humid conditions and long hours in the field. Previous field research experience is desirable. Because the Savannah River Site is a highly secure area run by the U.S. Department of Energy, non-United States citizens may have difficulty gaining clearance to work there. Additional information about the project is available on the web at: http://www4.ncsu.edu/%7Ehaddad/Corridors/Corridors.html http://brudviglab.plantbiology.msu.edu/?page_id=406 To apply, please email a CV or resume and letter describing past experience, why this position is interesting or important to you, dates of availability, and contact information with email addresses for two references to John Herrmann: ecoj...@u.washington.edu. Women and minorities are strongly encouraged to apply. Review of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
[ECOLOG-L] Field Technician Position in large-scale field experiment
Multiple field technician positions are available to work within a large-scale experiment on restoration of plant and animal communities in fragmented habitats. Research will include studies of the effects of corridors on various aspects of plant and arthropod dispersal. Tasks will include study site preservation, building, establishment, emptying, and maintenance of traps, and seed / arthropod identification. Opportunities for independent research projects exist for qualified individuals. Technicians will join a team of several principal investigators (Joshua Tewksbury - University of Washington, Lars Brudvig - Michigan State, Tomas Carlo - Penn State, Ellen Damschen and John Orrock - U. Wisconsin - Madison, Nick Haddad North Carolina State U., Doug Levey - University of Florida), postdoc John Herrmann, and several undergraduate and graduate students, and be provided exposure to numerous research questions and approaches. Positions will begin as early as mid-February 2012, and will last for a minimum of three months; however, possibilities for extension exist and applicants are encouraged to indicate dates of availability in their application letter. Pay rate will be $10.00/hr. Successful candidates will hold or be working towards a bachelors degree in ecology, biology, or a related discipline and must be able to endure hot and humid conditions and long hours in the field. Previous field research experience is desirable. Because the Savannah River Site is a highly secure area run by the U.S. Department of Energy, non-United States citizens may have difficulty gaining clearance to work there.
