Position Summary:

The Land Steward is an integral part of Teatown Lake Reservation’s Stewardship Team and is instrumental for operationalizing the goals and objectives in accordance with our Strategic Plans and Stewardship Framework. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to crucial conservation efforts while developing practical field skills in land management.

Principle Duties and Responsibilities:

Habitat Management (30-35%)

• Carry out habitat management activities as specified
• Manage invasive species and plant native species
• Monitor and maintain existing projects and priority areas (Wildflower Woods, Wildflower Island, large plantings, trail projects, garden areas, etc.)
• Assist with lake management activities

Trail and Grounds Maintenance (30-35%)

• Conduct routine checks of all trails. Perform regular maintenance of trails including vegetation removal, tree removal and invasives control.
• Perform regular and annual maintenance of all meadow areas and trails including mowing and the removal of invasive hedgerows.

Natural Resource Management (10-15%)

• Collect seeds and record populations of native species within Teatown's property
• Help maintain propagation area (regular mulching, weeding, watering, cutting back invasives)
• Propagate native plants for use in various restoration projects
• assist with wildlife management programs

Data Collection and Safety (10-15%)

• Collect and manage data relevant to Teatown's mission (nest boxes, Spotted Lantern Fly, Beech Leaf Disease, etc.)
• Assist with GIS
• Assist with the implementation of new projects that support Teatown's research and conservation goals
• Monitor and report hazardous conditions to ensure visitor safety, mitigating hazards when possible

Facilities and Equipment Maintenance (5-10%)

• Perform general upkeep and repair of tools and equipment
• Assist facilities team as periodically, as necessary

Qualifications:

• 2+ years of appropriate work experience in a related field is required. A bachelor’s degree in natural resource management or related field is a plus.
• Experience with forest management practices including tree felling and hazard tree removal
• Experience using equipment such as chainsaws, ATVs, farm tractors, and backhoes is a plus
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently as well as in groups
• Experience working with volunteers and the public
• Knowledge of native and invasive plant identification preferred