Summer Field Opportunities: WRCC Forest Dynamics Plot


These three summer positions involve establishing a 25.6 ha forest dynamics plot in an old-growth Douglas-fir/western hemlock forest at the Wind River Canopy Crane, Carson, WA. The 2011 crew will finish plot establishment in the western 12.8 ha. Tasks include; completion of the survey of the 20-m reference grid using Total Stations, locating trees and shrubs in reference to the grid using handheld lasers, identifying and tagging all woody stems ≥ 1 cm dbh, mapping large woody debris, and managing project data. Two weeks of on-the-job training will occur in late-June/early-July at the Yosemite Forest Dynamics Plot, a companion coniferous forest plot in California.

Qualifications: Previous experience using precision measurement equipment in an outdoor research situation and ability to follow complex data collection protocols is required. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to solve problems and work both independently and in a team of three. Work will involve moving through mostly flat terrain with delicate and expensive equipment, as well as the ability to carry up to 15 kg of additional gear. Knowledge of western flora, tree pathogens, and western forest insects is desirable. Positions require a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance.

Other: Practical experience in the operation and maintenance of electrical, electronic, and mechanical equipment, familiarity with a variety of software and instrumentation, current first aid certifications, and experience with periods of outdoor living are all positives.

Duration: Late-June – mid-September 2011 (ending date flexible).

Salary: $13 to $15 per hour, depending on experience. Camping accommodations provided during training in Yosemite. Bunk accommodations provided in Wind River.

Information: Details are summarized at: www.wfdp.org and www.yfdp.org. Wind River Canopy Crane information is at: http://depts.washington.edu/wrccrf. Contact jlutz@uw.eduhttp://faculty.washington.edu/jlutz, with questions not answered on those web pages.

Apply: Assemble the following into a single PDF file and email it to jlutz@uw.edu

1) A one-page cover letter describing your interests and reasons for applying,
2) A resume or CV, no longer than two pages,
3) Specific dates of availability (including 
any planned mid-summer absences),
4) Unofficial transcripts and/or professional work products, and
5) Phone numbers and email addresses of references (or letters of reference).

Application deadline: February 28, 2011.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *