SCB Bulletin Board: Last 35 Posts

ASwanson on "Rare Plant Treasure Hunt and Field Trip"

ASwanson — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 13:13:28 +0000

The California Native Plant Society has recently begun a program called the Rare Plant Treasure Hunt (www.cnps.org/cnps/rareplants/treasurehunt). The purpose is to inform conservation efforts by updating occurence records in the CNDDB of rare plants throughout California and to get as many volunteers as possible involved. If you are interested in being involved or leading a trip please contact treasurehunt@cnps.org

Also a Rare Plant Treasure Hunt field trip into the Mojave desert is planned for May 5-8th with Steve Hartman. For more information and to RSVP go to http://www.meetup.com/Rare-Plant-Treasure-Hunt/.

jcrawford on "CNPS Measuring and Monitoring Plant Populations workshop, May 4-6, 2020"

jcrawford — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 11:19:31 +0000

INSTRUCTOR: John Willoughby, former state botanist for BLM
TARGET AUDIENCE: Professional botanists, ecologists, land managers, resource specialists, and conservationists.
COST: CNPS members: $410
Non-members : $435
For more information and registration go to http://cnps.org/cnps/education/workshops/

Reduced or waived fees: Two spaces are available on a first come first serve basis for all 2010 workshops for students and underemployed people, through our Work Exchange Program. Go to: http://cnps.org/cnps/education/workshops/ to apply.

INSTRUCTOR: John Willoughby

LOCATIONS: Tree People Conference Center and grounds, 12601 Mulholland Drive, Beverly Hills

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Using classroom and field exercises, the workshop will focus on the role of plant population monitoring for adaptive management. Participants will learn how to develop good management objectives Topics cover principles of sampling and several sampling designs, field techniques for measuring vegetation, analyzing monitoring data and presenting results. Participants will receive a copy of the BLM-published book, Measuring and Monitoring Plant Populations by Caryl Elzinga, Dan Salzer, and John Willoughby.

misamilliron on "Desert/Solar RFP for public universities and agencies"

misamilliron — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 15:25:45 +0000

INFORMAL REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
ON
THE BIOLOGICAL IMPACTS OF SOLAR ENERGY PROJECTS IN THE CALIFORNIA DESERT

Background and Purpose
The California Energy Commission is seeking proposals from the University of California, other public universities and local, regional, state and federal public agencies for research to help reduce the environmental impacts of solar energy projects in California, particularly with respect to biological impacts in the California desert.

Environmental review of recent solar applications has raised several unresolved issues related to the analysis and mitigation of biological impacts. Resource agencies typically recommend that unavoidable impacts to sensitive species be compensated through land acquisition at a ratio that offsets the impact (i.e., compensation land acreage equal to a multiplier of the impacted acreage). In the case of land-intensive solar development, acquiring sufficient acreage of available and appropriate habitat compensation lands is considered a daunting task fraught with logistical difficulties such as multiple landowner negotiations, unwilling sellers and increasingly limited availability of suitable acquisition lands. Alternative and innovative mitigation measures other than land acquisition are needed to offset negative impacts by California solar energy projects on special-status plants and animals and sensitive plant communities.

In addition to land acquisition, resource agencies typically require relocating sensitive wildlife species such as desert tortoise or burrowing owl to avoid direct construction impacts, and also frequently recommend mitigation measures in addition to land acquisition (for example, fencing, habitat restoration, changes in grazing practices, avoidance buffers for wildlife). The efficacy of these mitigation measures in avoiding or offsetting the biological impacts has yet to be firmly established through scientific study. The long-term consequences of translocation on species abundance and viability also need additional research. Another challenge in analyzing the biological resource impacts of solar development is the lack of detailed distribution information for sensitive plants and animals, which is needed to inform compensation land locations and to assess a solar project’s impacts in a rangewide perspective. Currently, for most sensitive desert species, biologists do not have science-based numerical thresholds for population viability upon which to assess impacts or recommend appropriate levels of mitigation. Research on what percentage of a sensitive species population can be impacted without affecting species or population viability is lacking. Moreover, establishing a methodology and widely accepted and biologically meaningful scope for cumulative impact analyses of solar development’s impacts on biological resources is also a challenge often encountered in the environmental review process.

Targeted Research Topics
Research on the following topics will help resolve some of the scientific uncertainties about the biological impact and mitigation of utility-scale solar energy development in California’s deserts, and will inform the process of project siting and development. This is a competitive grant solicitation sponsored by the California Energy Commission’s Public Interest Energy Research (PIER) Energy-Related Environmental Program to investigate one or more of the following:
A. Innovative mitigation strategies other than land acquisition that would effectively offset the negative impacts of California solar energy development on special-status species and sensitive plant communities; and/or rigorous validation of and/or improvements to frequently recommended mitigation measures (for example, habitat restoration, fencing, buffers for special-status species).

B. New or enhanced habitat suitability models that help to: predict the distribution of special-status plants and animals and sensitive plant communities within the Mojave and Colorado Desert regions; evaluate the impact of solar energy technologies, plant designs, and/or solar project site selection on special-status plants and animals and sensitive plant communities; and provide planning tools to assist in the siting, design, permitting, and mitigation of solar energy projects.

C. An improved impact assessment on species abundance and viability of relocating desert tortoise and/or other special-status plants and animals away from solar energy sites using currently established protocols; and/or develop improved protocols for relocation.

D. Numerical thresholds for viability of listed species populations (i.e., minimum viable population size) in regions within the Mojave and Colorado Desert regions targeted for utility scale solar energy development.

E. Framework for conducting cumulative impacts analysis of solar energy development on sensitive biological resources (i.e., a framework or methodology, not a comparison of actual project impacts).

Proposal Information

Deadline: Proposals are due March 15th, 2010.

Funding amount: Up to $1.0 million of PIER Electricity funding is available under this solicitation for grant awards. A minimum of $150,000 is available to applicants per grant project with a maximum award of up to $1.0 million. If a high number of exceptional, desirable projects are proposed, the Energy Commission may release additional funds to fund additional projects under this solicitation.
Eligibility: Only research groups associated with the University of California, California State University system or local, regional, state and federal public agencies are allowed to participate in this informal competition.
Proposal submittal and guidelines: A proposal (up to 12 pages long) should be submitted via e-mail to Ms. Misa Milliron (mward@energy.state.ca.us) by March 15th, 2009.
The proposal should address the following:
Project Summary that:
• Clearly describes the proposed research project and the current state of knowledge in the scientific area of the project.
• Clearly describes the purpose, scope and goals of the proposed research, and outlines the issues the project will address.
• Summarizes the technical approach and principal tasks required to accomplish project goals and objectives.
• Describes the relevant technical, siting, and implementation issues that must be addressed to accomplish project’s goals and objectives.
• Explains why the project is unique, and not duplicative.
• Describes the duration and schedule of the project.
• Clearly lists research deliverable(s)/result(s).
Research Topic that:
• Unequivocally belongs to at least one of the categories (A-E) identified above under Targeted Research Topics.

Categorical Budget that:

• Identifies labor, overhead, indirect, equipment ($5,000 or more), travel, miscellaneous expenses, subcontractors, and the total budget.

Research Team Qualifications:
• Identify principal members of the research team.
• Identify the applicable experience of the principal members of the research team.
Proof of Technical Feasibility, Reliability and Safety:
• The abstract demonstrates the feasibility of the proposed project, describes a robust methodology, and convincingly argues that the results of the proposed project will be highly relevant to renewable energy development in the desert, and resolving its environmental impacts. If prior data exists from previous work leading up to the proposed project it tells how to and where to access the validated, detailed data from this previous work.
Appropriate Site for Proposed Project
• The project has a committed research and/or demonstration site or workplace and provides a name and contact information to verify the availability of the location. The research and/or demonstration site where the project is to be carried out is consistent and appropriate to the proposed work.
• If the proposed project involves field work, the size, location, and environment of the research and/or demonstration site is suitable to meet the objectives of the proposed work.
Permitting Activities
• Lists any prior or planned activities related to the permitting of desert-based energy projects by the applicant, its employees, or any subcontractors used for this proposal. The applicant shall also list any agreements or working relationships with anyone who has a permit application for a desert-based energy development that will be pending at the time of the grant award; and/or that is contesting a permit for a desert-based energy development that will be pending at the time of the grant award.
Evaluation and Selection Process
The goal of this informal solicitation is to identify and fund research that will best address the identification and mitigation of biological impacts associated with utility scale solar energy development in the California deserts. Based upon an evaluation of the submitted proposals, the Energy Commission will request further information and/or select a winning proposal(s) and prepare the needed interagency agreement. This agreement will be based on the proposal; however, the Commission reserves the right to suggest some modifications. If an agreement cannot be reached between the parties, PIER reserves the right to work with the group that submitted the proposal with the next highest score until reaching a successful outcome.
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
1. Proposal addresses specific research area listed in Targeted Research Topics (A-E above).
2. Proposed research uses robust methodology and identifies clear, meaningful, and measurable objectives.
3. The project description, products and due dates are reasonable and appropriate.
4. The project budget is reasonable and appropriate.
5. The principal investigator and the project team are well qualified to conduct the project.
6. Overall technical merit and degree to which the project is likely to succeed, including a consideration of the degree to which the proposal goes beyond the basic proposal requirements.
Energy Commission staff anticipate that researchers will be contacted with a decision or request for more information no later than March 26th.
For further information on this informal solicitation, please contact Misa Milliron (mward@energy.state.ca.us).

jperkins on "California-wide USFS Botany Seasonal Jobs"

jperkins — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 14:36:50 +0000

The US Forest Service is looking for qualified field botanists and weed crews to work throughout California in summer 2010. Seasonal Botanists and Biological Science Technicians are needed for 3-6 months, with pay ranges from $11.95 to $22.74 per hour (GS-3 – GS-9, depending on experience). Government housing may be available.

For optimal consideration apply as soon as possible.

Job Descriptions and Qualifications:

Botanists: Conduct field surveys for Threatened, Endangered, Sensitive, and Watch List plants and map locations.
Weed Crew: Locate, map, and manually remove invasive plants.

Exact duties will vary among duty stations. Desired skills include: plant identification using taxonomic keys, familiarity with California flora, non-vascular plant ID; use of GPS, topographic maps, and compass; ARCGIS skill; operating vehicles on rough roads, good physical fitness; and willingness to work under difficult field conditions.

Qualifications:
• Minimum 1 year college for GS-3 Biological Science Technician. Minimum 2 years of college or 6 months general experience plus 1 year as a GS-3 required for GS-4 position. Bachelor’s degree, or 1 year at GS-4 level required for GS-5 position. Minimum 1 year graduate level education or 1 year at GS-6 level for GS-7 position. Bachelor’s degree plus 2 years graduate work in biology, botany, natural resources, range science, biology, or related area, or 1 year experience at GS-7 level, with 24 semester hours in botany required for GS-9 Botanist.
• Over 18 years of age, and a U.S. Citizen

For information at different locations, please contact:

Angeles National Forest – Arcadia, CA (2 Botany/Weeds; GS-7-9) – Janet Nickerman: 626-574-5264, jnickerman@fs.fed.us

Eldorado National Forest – Placerville, CA (4 Total: Botany, GS-4-7; Weeds, GS-3-4) – Susan Durham: 530-642-5173, sdurham@fs.fed.us

Inyo National Forest – Bishop, CA (1 Gotany/Weeds; GS-7) – Kathleen Nelson: 760-873-2498, kgnelson01@fs.fed.us; Sue Weiss; 760-873-2496, sweis@fs.fed.us

Klamath National Forest – Fort Jones, CA (1 Weeds, GS-5) – Marla Knight: 530-468-1238, mknight @ fs.fed.us

Lake Tahoe Basin Unit – South Lake Tahoe, CA (2 Weeds, GS-5-7; 3 Botany, GS-5-9) – Cheryl Beyer (Weeds): 530-543-2842, cbeyer@fs.fed.us; Shana Gross (Botany): 530-543-2752, segross@fs.fed.us

Lassen National Forest – Susanville, CA (2 Weeds, GS-3-5; 3 Botany, GS-9) – Allison Sanger (Botany): 530-252-6662, asanger@fs.fed.us; Jessica Pijoan (Weeds); 530-252-6475, jpijoan@fs.fed.us

Mendocino National Forest – Willows, CA (2 Botany/Weeds; GS-4-5) – Lauren
Johnson: 530-934-1153, laurenjohnson@fs.fed.us

Modoc National Forest – Alturas, CA (4 Botany, GS-5-7; 2 Weeds, GS-4) – Judy Perkins: 530-233-8827, jperkins@fs.fed.us

Plumas National Forest – Blairsden CA (1 Botany, GS-5-7) – Mike Friend: 530-836-7167, mjfriend@fs.fed.us; Oroville, CA (6-10 Botany/Weeds; GS-4-7) – Chris Christofferson: 530-532-7473, cchristofferson@fs.fed.us

Shasta-Trinity National Forest – Weaverville, CA (4 Botany/Weeds; GS-4-7) – Susan Erwin: 530-623-1753, serwin@fs.fed.us

Sierra National Forest – North Fork, CA (2 Botany/Weeds-tentative based on funding; GS-5) – Joanna Clines: 559-877-2218 x 3150, jclines@fs.fed.us

Sierra Cascade Province – Quincy, CA (includes extensive travel), (4 Botany/Ecology, GS-5-7) – Kyle Merriam: 530-283-7777, kmerriam@fs.fed.us

Six Rivers National Forest – Eureka, CA (3 Botany/Weeds; GS-5-7) – Lisa Hoover: 707-441-3612, lhoover@fs.fed.us

Stanislaus National Forest – Groveland, CA (2-3 Botany, 2-3 Weeds, GS-4-7) – Jennie Haas: 209-962-7825 ext. 540, jhaas@fs.fed.us; Hathaway Pines, CA (2 Botany, GS-4-7) – Quinn Young: 209-795-1381 ext. 326, qyoung@fs.fed.us; Mi Wuk Village, CA (2-3 Botany, GS-4-5) – Margaret Willits: 209-586-3234, ext. 624, mwillits@fs.fed.us

Tahoe National Forest – Nevada City, CA (3-4 Botany, GS-4-5) – Kathy Van Zuuk: 530-478-6243, kvanzuuk@fs.fed.us

Adaptive Management Services Enterprise Team– Contact Wendy Boes for
information: 530-478-6886; wboes@fs.fed.us (Botany, GS-7-9)

How to Apply:

1. Go to the AVUE Digital Services website:
https://www.avuedigitalservices.com/usfs/applicant.html

If you are not registered in AVUE, you will need to register. Click the logo to go to the login page. Then click NEW USER REGISTRATION to register. Fill in the requested information to set up your AVUE account, and click SAVE THIS INFORMATION. Once you have your account, you can login in anytime to look for open positions, update your profile, or apply for jobs. You can also set up search criteria to hunt for jobs you might be interested in.

2. Click on APPLY FOR JOBS to see the Vacancy List. The following are the specific announcement numbers to apply to for Summer Temporary Biological Science Technician (Plants) and Botany positions:

TEMP-OCR-404-3-GEN (for GS-3)
TEMP-OCR-404-4-PLANT (for GS-4)
TEMP-OCR-404-5-PLANT (for GS-5)
TEMP-OCR-404-6-PLANT (for GS-6)
TEMP-OCR-404-7-PLANT (for GS-7)
TEMP-OCR-430-9-BOT (for GS-9)

NOTE #1: The same Biological Science Technician announcements will be used to fill both Botany Surveying and Weed Crew positions.

NOTE #2: The job duties for these Biological Science Technician positions will read:
Performs work concerned with the breeding, selecting, and testing of field crops, fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, etc.; improvement of management practices to attain increased yield, improved quality, adaptation to mechanization, and resistance to diseases, insects, heat, drought, cold, or other hazards; and similar work usually concerned with higher plant life.
Uses a variety of specialized tools, equipment, and materials to carry out procedures, methods and practices in support of one or more of the biological sciences. Analyzes data and test conditions.
THIS IS NOT THE REAL POSITION DESCRIPTION!! Go ahead and apply – the job REALLY is botany surveying and/or weed crew and/or greenhouse propagation of native plants for restoration

NOTE #3: It is recommended that you apply for all grade levels for which you may be qualified, and at which you would be interested in working.

3. Click on the vacancy announcement you wish to apply for. If you click on FULL JOB DESCRIPTION, you may see a position description that more accurately fits the real job. However, the GS-7 job will sound like a weed crew job while the others sound like botany surveying jobs. Again, BOTH botany surveying and weed crew positions will be filled from each of these announcements. Contact individual forests for more specific job duty information.

4. Click on APPLY NOW to fill out the application. Make sure you provide all of the MANDATORY INFORMATION, and attach all REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. Providing OPTIONAL INFORMATION is strongly encouraged. NOTE: 1) You MUST provide TRANSCRIPTS, to verify qualifications. 2) For full work experience credit, include start and end dates with month, year and DAY. 3) Unrelated work experience counts towards qualifying experience, so include it!

5. In the APPLICANT INFORMATION section, you MUST put down the correct location to be considered for a position. Below are the specific locations within California that are currently planning to fill temporary botany/weed crew positions:

Alturas, CA (Modoc National Forest)
Arcadia, CA (Angeles National Forest)
Bishop, CA (Inyo National Forest)
Eureka, CA (Six Rivers National Forest)
Fort Jones, CA (Klamath National Forest)
Groveland, CA (Stanislaus National Forest)
Happy Camp, CA (Klamath National Forest)
Hathaway Pines, CA (Stanislaus National Forest)
Mi Wuk Village, CA (Stanislaus National Forest)
Mount Shasta, CA (Shasta-Trinity National Forest)
Nevada City, CA (AMSET)
North Fork, CA (Sierra National Forest)
Oroville, CA (Plumas National Forest)
Placerville, CA (Eldorado National Forest)
Quincy, CA (Sierra Cascade Province)
South Lake Tahoe, CA (Lake Tahoe Basin Unit)
Susanville, CA (Lassen National Forest)
Weaverville, CA (Shasta-Trinity National Forest)
Willows, CA (Mendocino National Forest)
Yreka, CA (Klamath National Forest)

6. Submit your application as soon as possible! While these are open continuous announcements, selecting officials can request a hiring list from these announcements at any time. Submitting your application early insures that your application will be among those considered by the selecting official.

Thank you for you interest in USDA Forest Service Botany jobs!!!

Students: Continuing students are eligible for direct hiring under the Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP), and should submit a resume and transcripts directly to the Forest of interest. Contacts for hiring Forests are listed above.

jperkins on "Seasonal Botany Survey and Weed Treatment Jobs"

jperkins — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 14:10:54 +0000

National Forests in California, including the Modoc National Forest, are hiring botany seasonal temporary employees for botanical surveys as well as noxious weed treatments. If you are interested, please contact Judy Perkins at jperkins@fs.fed.us or (530) 233-8827. If you provide us your e-mail, we can send you more specifics on where positions in California will be filled and how to apply thru AVUE. We look forward to hearing from you!

naomi on "Seeds of Success Coordinator (RSABG)"

naomi — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 15:51:26 +0000

TITLE: Seeds of Success Coordinator
DEPARTMENT: Research
STATUS: Full-Time Hourly, 2 Year Term Position
REPORTS TO: Conservation Botanist

Position Overview:
Assists the Conservation Botanist in coordination and execution of field research for the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Seeds of Success Program (SOS). SOS is a program coordinated by the BLM to support seed collections from native plant populations to conserve and develop native plant materials for stabilizing, rehabilitating and restoring lands in the United States. Duties include leading teams in the field to collect seeds, conduct surveys, collect and process plant specimens, plant identification, data collection, preparation of field forms and reports, and data entry and labeling of field collections, training and supervision of interns, graduate student Research Assistants, and volunteers. Assists with various aspects of herbarium operation, including preparation of plant specimens for inclusion in herbarium, specimen filing, sending and receiving of loans, gifts, exchanges and other transactions, record keeping activity associated with specimen transactions and accessioning, and data entry for specimen label database.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Under cooperative agreements between RSABG and BLM, assists in the execution and coordination of the annual program of work for developing Native Plant Materials on BLM lands.
Works in association with other field studies, herbarium, and garden staff, and with personnel from other institutions. Participates in conservation projects between RSABG and other government agencies or private contractors, including general botanical surveys, rare plant inventory and monitoring field projects.
Participates in field collecting and research activities in association with field studies, herbarium, and garden staff, and with personnel from other institutions.
Assists with organization of equipment, and supplies.
Participates in associated data entry and mapping for field projects.
Assists in preparation of reports and other documents for field collections and contract projects for submission to government agencies and contractors.
Identifies field collections, enters specimen data, and generates specimen labels using interactive computer-based system.
Coordinates and assists with herbarium curatorial projects as directed.
Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
Coursework towards a degree in the biological sciences required; Bachelor of Science in botany, biology, or equivalent environmental science preferred.
Ability to follow instructions, work successfully with others, and work independently with minimal supervision is critical.
Strong writing and verbal skills, the ability to type, and computer skills (word processing, databases, and simple graphics) are essential. Advanced computer skills are desirable; familiarity with databases (particularly FileMaker Pro) is a plus.
Depending on experience, herbarium duties may include using basic web design applications and various data management activities.
The majority of field work will take place on the BLM’s California Desert District. Familiarity with GIS and/or other mapping software (ArcView, Topo, DeLorme), and a working knowledge of basic taxonomic principles and characteristics of major plant families and California flora desired.

Physical demands
Ability to conduct fieldwork under a variety of environmental conditions is required.
Must have physical strength and endurance sufficient to carry field equipment and supplies and hike over steep, rugged terrain.

RSABG offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package

Qualified candidates please send cover letter and resume to:
See http://rsabg.org for more info

Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden
Attention: Naomi Fraga
1500 N College Avenue, Claremont, CA 91711

Fax to (909) 626-3489

naomi on "Position available at the Jepson Herbarium, UC Berkeley"

naomi — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 15:35:20 +0000

Position available at the Jepson Herbarium, UC Berkeley

Job Title: Public Programs Coordinator

Job Opening ID: 10421
http://jobs.berkeley.edu/

Application Review Date

The First Review Date for this job is: February 11, 2010.

Departmental Overview
Involves designing, conducting, promoting, and supporting the public educational programs of The Jepson Herbarium. Researches and assesses educational needs and interests for targeted public segments, and develops programs, materials, technology and learning approaches accordingly.

Responsibilities

*Based on needs of target audiences, plans and develops new programs and curriculum, and adjusts existing courses and curriculum in a continuing education environment. Plans and schedules course offerings, identifies course topics and locations. Recruits, selects, orients, evaluates and supervises qualified course and program instructors.

*Participates in developing strategic market plans and target audiences. Tracks student or participant performance and course desirability. Evaluates and adjusts course curriculum through student/participant evaluations and level of interest shown. Follows current trends In the field by attending continuing education opportunities and uses that knowledge to design program so that the course offerings track current needs of community.

*Evaluates prospective program partnerships. Represents department in larger campus consortia. Evaluates prospective partnerships with off-campus partners. Actively participates in community building and long-range strategic planning for public educational program. Cultivates potential donors. Assists with special event planning.

*Develops, prepares and reconciles budget for program. Contracts with vendors and oversees payments. Negotiates contract details with outside agencies such as the US Forest Service. Must interact with the Sponsored Projects Office.

*Each year, recruits, selects, orients, evaluates, and supervises qualified course program instructors. Each year, Determines instructor objectives, method of instruction, and location, Plans and schedules course offerings, including identification of course topics. Implements 20-25 weekend programs on campus and in remote locations. Includes, driving long distances, shopping for supplies, camping, hiking, and cooking for large groups.

*Responsible for administrative details of program, Maintains numerous databases and spreadsheets. Assigns work tasks and serves as a work leader for administrative assistant, student workers, and volunteers. Using desktop publishing skills, develops yearly brochure of course offerings (includes content, design, layout, and art work).

Required Qualifications

* Thorough knowledge of functional area and understanding of how work may impact other areas.

* Thorough analytical skills to conduct analysis and develop recommendations, demonstrating organization and problem-solving skills.

* Thorough and effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills and presentation skills.

* Thorough knowledge of campus policies and procedures.

* Thorough knowledge of and skill in delivering programs.

* Thorough knowledge of current public educational programs and trends.

* Thorough skills to conduct needs assessment and development of new presentations/courses to meet organizational needs.

* Skill in using business software systems in the completion of work assignments; i.e. Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and InDesign. Includes management of File Maker Pro database and an expansive set of Excel workbooks.

* Experience with budget development and long range forecasting.

* With a high degree of accuracy, complete multiple, competing tasks that have strict deadlines.

* Ability to develop collaborative working relationships with diverse population in an academic setting.

* Ability to make quick decisions under extreme pressure or unfavorable environmental conditions.

* Ability to travel away from home 20-25 weekends per year.

* Ability to act in a professional and cordial manner under extreme environmental conditions.

* Ability to supervise and manage one administrative assistant, volunteers, and student helpers.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred, advanced degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/training. Continuing education in field is required.

Salary & Benefits

Salary range (annual): $38,100 (minimum) - $53,400 (midpoint);

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University visit:

http://atyourservice.ucop.edu/forms_pubs/misc/benefits_of_belonging.pdf

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California, Berkeley is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

UC Furloughs

The University of California Regents have approved a plan to enact system wide furloughs and other cost reduction measures due to the state budget crisis. This position may be subject to any cost cutting measures implemented at UC Berkeley.

For more information, contact:
Staci Markos
smarkos@berkeley.edu

misamilliron on "Grant Opportunity: Desert/Solar Research"

misamilliron — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 11:06:09 +0000

The California Energy Commission is seeking proposals from private entities, including non-profit organizations and private universities, to help reduce the environmental impacts of solar energy projects in California, particularly with respect to biological impacts in the California desert. Although public entities, such as national laboratories and public universities, cannot apply to this grant solicitation, they can participate as subcontractors to private-entity applicants. This competitive grant solicitation is sponsored by the California Energy Commission's Public Interest Energy Research (PIER) Energy-Related Environmental Program to investigate one or more of the following:
A. Innovative mitigation strategies other than land acquisition that would effectively offset the negative impacts of California solar energy development on special-status species and sensitive plant communities; and/or rigorous validation of and/or improvements to frequently recommended mitigation measures (for example, habitat restoration, fencing).

E. New or improved framework for conducting cumulative impacts analysis of solar energy development on sensitive biological resources.

For more information on this grant solicitation and how to apply, visit http://www.energy.ca.gov/contracts/pier.html#PON-09-007 .

Stage 1 proposals are due March 3, 2010, and a pre-proposal workshop will be held on January 28, 2010.

misamilliron on "Grant Solicitation: Desert/Solar Research"

misamilliron — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 11:01:31 +0000

E. New or improved framework for conducting cumulative impacts analysis of solar energy development on sensitive biological resources.

For more information on this grant solicitation and how to apply, visit http://www.energy.ca.gov/contracts/pier.html#PON-09-007 .

Stage 1 proposals are due March 3, 2010, and a pre-proposal workshop will be held on January 28, 2010.

WendyBoes on "Seasonal Field Botanist(s) position"

WendyBoes — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 16:08:39 +0000

Adaptive Management Services Enterprise Team is recruiting for a seasonal Biological Science Technician (plants) and/or Botanist. Much of the season’s work will take place in the Shasta-Trinity, Cleveland and Angeles National Forests. This is a great opportunity to visit and botanize in various parts of California!

Major duties: The primary duties will include conducting invasive, rare, threatened and endangered plant surveys at various locations in California, though mainly in the Shasta-Trinity N.F. This includes writing vegetation description narratives and site evaluation; field data management; identification of plants to a species level; and other related tasks.

Position requirements: Ability and willingness to travel extensively, experience in field botany including successful completion of a plant taxonomy course, current driver’s license, physically fit and ability to safely navigate in variable terrain with poison oak and other hazards, excellent oral and written communication skills, ability to work well in groups and independently with little supervision, strong organizational skills, commitment to completion of work group’s goals and teamwork.

Position starts April-May.

Positions and Salary: The positions offered are seasonal GS-7 ($19.49/ hr) biological science technicians (plants) or GS-9 Botanist ($23.85/ hr) which are based upon experience level. Please visit http://www.usajobs.gov/ for a full description of qualification requirements.

Please Contact:
Wendy Boes at 530-478-6886
wboes@fs.fed.us

rthecellist on "Effects of Magnets on Kidney Bean Plants"

rthecellist — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 01:39:08 +0000

Hi, I'm a 9th grader in Georgia. I am doing a science fair project on how magnets can affect the growth of kidney bean plants. I not only am required to experiment, but I also must research for it. If anyone has answers on how magnets have an effect on kidney bean plants, if at all, please tell me. Thank you!

AllisonSanger on "USFS-Assistant Forest Botanist, LAssen National Forest"

AllisonSanger — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 16:53:34 +0000

The Lassen National Forest will soon be advertising a GS-430-7/9, Assistant Forest Botanist position. The position is permanent full time which may be filled at either the GS-7 or GS-9 level and having career ladder potential to the GS-9 level. The duty station is located in Susanville, California at the Forest Headquarters.

ABOUT THE POSITION:
This position functions as the assistant to the Forest Botanist for the Lassen National Forest. The botany program on the Lassen NF is a Forest-wide program run out of the Supervisor’s Office. Duties include hiring and supervising temporary employees (botanists, plant bio-techs, weed warriors), conducting and supervising floristic field surveys, keying plants, maintaining records on plant locations and habitat information, writing biological evaluations and assessments and specialist reports, interpretive activities (such as public talks and presentations, developing displays and handouts) and assisting with the forest noxious weed and other botanical programs. The Lassen NF, with its varied programs, affords a great opportunity to develop and expand its botanical program in new and exciting directions.

ABOUT THE LASSEN NATIONAL FOREST:
The Lassen National Forest lies at the heart of one of the most diverse vegetative and fascinating areas in California. The Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Cascade Range, the Modoc Plateau, and the Great Basin meet and blend geographically and floristically in the Forest's 1.2 million acres. The Forest programs are varied. The Forest greets visitors with a wide array of recreational opportunities, including three major and popular recreation areas and numerous other opportunities (a few include the only low elevation wilderness in the Region, a world-class hang gliding site, excellent hunting and fishing, and an extensive snowmobile trail network). The flora is diverse with over 1320 known species of plants. Some 360 wildlife species call the Lassen home, including bald eagle, osprey, pronghorn, deer, myriad waterfowl, and at least 85 kinds of butterflies. The vegetation and fuels management program is strong and well respected in the Region. Range management is a sizeable program, with 65 range allotments spread across the Forest.

The west side of the Forest borders the foothills of California's central valley, moving into higher elevation mixed conifer as one travels into the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountains. An area of lush forests and cascading streams, it attracts many from major valley communities such as Redding and Chico. Deer, Mill, and Antelope Creeks feature the last natural spring run of Chinook salmon in the State. The Lassen National Forest surrounds Lassen Volcanic National Park, featuring Mt. Lassen and an array of scenic trails and sites to explore. Moving east over the mountains' crest, the land gentles and dries. Sagebrush/grass flats are common, with spectacular flora displays in wet years, and a system of vernal wetlands. These stunning, Basin vistas are flanked by volcanic cinder cones and mountains, graced with forests of fir and pine. The east side features Eagle Lake, a large, natural remnant of another time. It is a major recreation site, and home of the nationally known Eagle Lake trout. Communities in the immediate forest area are small and the feeling is distinctly rural.

ABOUT SUSANVILLE:
Nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada's east side, Susanville is a full service community of about 12,000 with a larger population in the surrounding Lassen County. The largest community in north-eastern California, it offers a hospital, a number of independent school districts, churches representing most denominations, a local community college, and a strong sense of community. The city of Reno, Nevada is a short 85 miles to the SE, and both Chico and Redding, sizeable Central Valley communities, are within a two hour drive from Susanville. Real estate values vary greatly, with prices for a single family house ranging from $80,000 to $200,000+.

Susanville is the gateway to a host of recreational opportunities on the Lassen National Forest and Bureau of Land Management lands. Just minutes away are fishing, hunting, off-roading, mountain-biking, camping, water related sports, wildlife viewing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, wilderness adventures, and more. The Lassen Volcanic National Park is about an hour away and features the 10,000 foot Lassen Peak and other volcanic features. San Francisco, Sacramento, the California coast, and Lake Tahoe are all within a half day drive.

TO RESPOND:
If you are interested in this position and want to receive a copy of the Vacancy Announcement, please complete the attached form and send via email to tfrolli@fs.fed.us by March 18, 2009. If you are not a current Forest Service employee, or do not have access to email please complete and fax the form to: 530-252-6428, or mail to:

LASSEN NATIONAL FOREST
ATTN: Tom Frolli
2550 Riverside Dr.
Susanville, CA 96130

naomi on "Spring 2009 Field trips posted"

naomi — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 09:59:02 +0000

SCB Spring 2009 field trips have been posted.
http://socalbot.org/trips.php

Please send comments on additional field trip suggestions. Thanks!

judyperkins on "USFS Summer Biological Science Technician and Botanist Positions"

judyperkins — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 17:17:53 +0000

The US Forest Service is looking for qualified field botanists and weed crews to work throughout California in summer 2009. Seasonal Botanists and Biological Science Technicians are needed for 3-6 months, with pay ranges from $11.74 to $22.34 per hour (GS-3 – GS-9, depending on experience). Government housing may be available.

Job descriptions and Qualifications:

Botanists: Conduct field surveys for rare plants and map locations.
Weed Crew: Locate and manually remove invasive plants.
Exact duties will vary among duty stations, and may include greenhouse work. Desired skills include: plant identification using taxonomic keys, familiarity with California flora; use of GPS, topographic maps, and compass; operating vehicles on rough roads, good physical fitness; and willingness to work under difficult field conditions.

Qualifications:
• Minimum 1 year college for GS-3 Biological Science Technician. Bachelor’s degree plus 2 years graduate work in biology, botany, natural resources, range science, biology, or related area, or 1 year experience at GS-7 level, with 24 semester hours in botany required for GS-9 Botanist.
• Over 18 years of age, and a U.S. Citizen

Position Locations (Anticipated number of positions) – Contact Person:

Angeles National Forest – Arcadia, CA (1 Botany/Weeds) – Katie VinZant: 626-574-5268
Eldorado National Forest - Placerville, CA (1 or 2 Botany) – Susan Durham: 530-642-5173
Inyo National Forest – Bishop, CA (1 Botany) – Kathleen Nelson: 760-873-2498
Klamath National Forest – Happy Camp, CA (1 botany); Fort Jones, CA (1 Botany);
Yreka, CA (1 Weeds) – Marla Knight: 530-468-1238
Lake Tahoe Basin Unit– South Lake Tahoe, CA (2 Weeds; 3 Botany) – Cecilia Reed: 530-543-2761, Shana Gross: 530-543-2752
Lassen National Forest – Susanville, CA (2-4 Weeds; 2 Botany) – Allison Sanger: 530-252-6662
Mendocino National Forest – Willows, CA (1 Botany) – Lauren Johnson: 530-934-1153
Modoc National Forest – Alturas, CA (3 Botany) – Judy Perkins: 530-233-8827
Plumas National Forest – Oroville, CA (3-5 Botany); Quincy, CA (2 Botany) – Chris Christofferson: 530-532-7473, Jim Belsher-Howe: 530-283-7657
Shasta-Trinity National Forest – Weaverville, CA (3-5 Botany); Mount Shasta, CA (3
Weeds/Botany) – Susan Erwin: 530-623-1753, Rhonda Posey: 530-926-9665
Sierra National Forest – North Fork, CA (2 or more Botany) – Joanna Clines: 559-877-2218 x 3150, Jamie Tuitele-Lewis: 559-855-5355 x 3352
Sierra Cascade Province – Quincy, CA (includes extensive travel), (4 Botany/Ecology) – Kyle Merriam: 530-283-7777
AMSET – Nevada City, CA (includes extensive travel), (1-2 Botany) – Wendy Boes: 530-478-6886

To Apply:
Apply in the automated Forest Service site, AVUE: https://www.avuecentral.com/
Job Titles: Biological Science Technician (Plants); Botanist (Temp)

Students: Continuing students are eligible for direct hiring under the Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP), and should submit applications directly to the Forest of interest. Contacts for each Forest are listed above.

FloraCNPS on "CNPS Photo Contest"

FloraCNPS — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 14:37:29 +0000

For more information and entry form, please see www.cnps.org.

Fabulous prizes for the CNPS Conservation Conference: Strategies and Solutions Photo Contest!

1st prize: $750, Lowepro Primus AW recycled material backpack, photo published in Fremontia, & 2 complimentary tickets to Conservation Conference banquet. (Total prize value: $1,150)

2nd Prize: $500, Lowepro Primus AW recycled material backpack, photo published in Fremontia, & 2 complimentary tickets to Conservation Conference banquet. (Total prize value: $900)

3rd Prize: $250, Lowepro Primus AW recycled material backpack, photo published in Fremontia, & 2 complimentary tickets to Conservation Conference banquet. (Total prize value: $650)

Runners-up (3): Lowepro Fastpack 250. (Total prize value: $120)

"Conference Choice": The cover of the CNPS 2009 Conservation Conference: Strategies & Solutions Proceedings to be published in 2009.

Subject & Criteria
“California Native Plants”- Photos must be taken in California (or California Floristic Province) and feature plants native to the state. Images may be species specific macro shots, wide angle landscape photos, or pictures of people or animals interacting with the natural environment of California. Photos may be of- but are not limited to- rare or common plants, flowers, trees, shrubs, vines, grasses, bryophytes - surprise us!

Digital or Film: Photographer’s Choice, however entries must be accompanied by high resolution digital copies of photos on CD.

Size and Format: 5x7”or 8x10” photos. (Slight variations in size will be accepted.) Please- no mats, no frames, no glass. Photos must be mounted on foam core or backing mat board and enclosed in a clear poly envelope for display at conference. Please mark back of entry with title of the piece and name of photographer.

Deadline for Entries: November 15, 2008. Entries will be accepted by mail September 15- November 14, 2008 and for drop-off Saturday, November 15, 2008 from 11:00-3:00 at the CNPS state office in Sacramento, CA. Entries received after the deadline may be displayed at the conference but will not be eligible for prizes.

More information can be found at the Conservation Conference web site at www.cnps.org.

donald on "Botanical Illustration of Native Desert Flora"

donald — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 13:43:47 +0000

2009 UPDATE:
BOTANICAL ILLUSTRATION OF NATIVE DESERT FLORA
with Donald Davidson www.nps.gov/plants/cw/watercolor/index.htm
Study along with other biologists, writers, and artists while helping increase the native flora visual database. College credit optional.
Friday, April 3, 7pm, through Sunday, April 5, 3pm, Desert Studies Center, Mojave National Preserve, Zzyzx, CA. Accommodations and meals included.
CONTACT:
Linda Coco
Program Representative
Science, Law & Health Programs
UC Riverside Extension
1200 University Ave., #336
Riverside, CA 92507
951-827-1618 - Direct
951-827-7374 - Fax
www.extension.ucr.edu

donald on "Botanical Illustration Desert Field Workshop"

donald — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:17:59 +0000

BOTANICAL ILLUSTRATION OF NATIVE DESERT FLORA
with Donald Davidson www.nps.gov/plants/cw/watercolor/index.htm
Study along with other biologists, writers, and artists while helping increase the native flora visual database. College credit optional.
Friday, April 3, 7pm, through Sunday, April 5, 3pm, Desert Studies Center, Mojave National Preserve, Zzyzx, CA. Accommodations and meals included.
CONTACT:
Linda Coco
Program Representative
Science, Law & Health Programs
UC Riverside Extension
1200 University Ave., #336
Riverside, CA 92507
951-827-1618 - Direct
951-827-7374 - Fax
www.extension.ucr.edu

URSrecruiter on "Staff Botanist"

URSrecruiter — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 12:30:18 +0000

URS Corporation, ranked number one on Engineering News-Record’s list of the Top 500 Design Firms for Seventh consecutive year is a leading provider of planning, design, systems engineering and integration, technology development, program and construction management, and operations and maintenance services to federal, state and local government agencies in the U.S., Fortune 500 corporations worldwide and government clients in Europe and Asia/Pacific. We’re currently looking for a Staff Botanist in our San Diego, CA office.

URS32635 – Staff Botanist
Responsibilities: Work would involve participation in rare plant surveys, wetland delineation, vegetation mapping, habitat restoration planning, CEQA/NEPA, ESA assessments. Two-plus years experience with Southern California rare plants required.

Requirements: BS in Botany or related plant science degree.
Two plus years experience as a botanist, including rare plant surveys in SoCal.

URS Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strongly supports diversity in our workforce. M/F/V/D. We offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. For immediate consideration please submit your resume online at www.urscorp.com and refer to Requisition URS32635 or send your resume to Katie Poehler at Katie_poehler@urscorp.com.

smarkos on "Job: Public Programs Coordinator, Berkeley"

smarkos — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 11:36:41 +0000

JOB POSTING: Coordinator of Public Programs

This exciting position has independent programmatic responsibility for the development and implementation of 25+ weekend workshops each season (predominantly between March and August). Chooses scientific course topics, appropriate instructors, and field locations for 20-25 weekend workshops that are conducted on botanical and ecological subjects at locations throughout the state. Administers the program according to policies set by UC Berkeley. Ensures fiscal success of the public program. Conducts all aspects of administration needed to implement the public programs. Other responsibilities include desktop publishing, community building, and fundraising.

Interested applicants, please see application under UC Berkeley job # 008989. Ideal start date, November 15, 2008

For more information and a copy of the full job description, please contact Staci Markos (smarkos@berkeley.edu) 510-643-7008.

DonnieHaigh on "Habitat Stewards Training"

DonnieHaigh — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 15:26:09 +0000

Become a part of the Team! Join us for this 3 part-training program that will get you ready to assist in planting California native plants at the Nature Center. Monthly meetings and work parties will provide ongoing opportunities to sharpen your gardening skills, make new friends and help restore the land back to natives.
Program begins Friday, September 26 9 am – 12 pm.
Call for information and registration packet. (562) 570-1750
$40 materials fee.

DonnieHaigh on "El Dorado Nature Center's California Native Plant Sale"

DonnieHaigh — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 15:24:11 +0000

On Saturday October 25, 2008 from 9:30 – 2:00 pm, El Dorado Nature Center will be hosting its annual California Native Plant Sale sponsored by Partners of Parks. Most of the plants available are well suited to Southern California’s dry climate and require minimal watering once established. Many have fragrant foliage and bear brightly colored flowers that are attractive to butterflies and birds. All proceeds go to support habitat restoration at the Nature Center. Be sure and come early for best selection. Members of Friends of El Dorado Nature Center may make pre-sale purchases beginning at 9:00 am. Your $7 vehicle entry fee will be credited toward all purchases of $75 or more. For more information, please call (562) 570-4880. Memberships to the Friends of El Dorado Nature Center may be purchased at the event.
Location:
El Dorado Nature Center
7550 E. Spring St.
Long Beach, Ca 90815

DonnieHaigh on "El Dorado Nature Center's California Native Plant Sale"

DonnieHaigh — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 15:23:27 +0000

mdesafey on "Senior Project Manager - CEQA Regulatory Compliance"

mdesafey — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:14:17 +0000

We are seeking a Senior Project Manager who will have the responsibilities of providing project management and technical direction to a variety of CEQA/NEPA compliance projects throughout California.

The ideal individual would have 5+ years experience working as a project manager overseeing the development of CEQA/NEPA Compliance documentation. This would include providing project management and technical guidance in the design, writing, and development of the overall project, including all reports, budgets, schedules and scopes of work, training and client relations, technical oversight.

Must have previous experience and expertise in CEQA/NEPA compliance regulations and environmental permitting for transportation, land development, infrastructure projects, water resources and/or energy projects.

Requires a degree in Environmental Planning, Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources or related discipline. Must have Exceptional project management, staff mentoring and written/verbal communication abilities desired.

Position is based in Irvine, California and offers excellent compensation and benefits.

For consideration please forward resume or contact directly:

Sequence Systems
Attn: Michael DeSafey
2008 Opportunity Drive #150
Roseville, CA 95678
Phone: 916-782-6900x 202
Fax: 916-782-6307
Email: mdesafey@sequencestaffing.com
www.sequencestaffing.com

mdesafey on "Job: Senior Biologist - CEQA Biological Leader"

mdesafey — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:11:27 +0000

Senior Biological CEQA Project Leader

We are seeking a Senior level Biologist who will have the responsibilities of providing project management and technical direction to a variety of environmental compliance projects throughout California.

The ideal individual would have 5+ years experience working as a project manager overseeing the development of CEQA/NEPA Compliance documentation. This would include providing project management and technical guidance in the design, writing, and development of the overall biological sections of the report, as well as, overseeing research, data collection, field surveys, reports, budgets, schedules and scopes of work, training and client relations.

Must have previous experience and expertise in CEQA/NEPA compliance regulations, environmental permitting (section 401 & 404), conducting wetland delineations, biological assessments, habitat assessments, permitting, restoration plans and vegetation surveys. Understanding of endangered species throughout the southwest is desired

Requires a degree in Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources or related discipline. Exceptional project management, staff mentoring and written/verbal communication abilities desired.

Position is based in Orange County and offers excellent compensation and benefits in an exceptional organization.

For consideration please forward resume or contact directly:

Sequence Systems
Attn: Michael DeSafey
2008 Opportunity Drive #150
Roseville, CA 95678
Phone: 916-782-6900 x202
Fax: 916-782-6307
Email: mdesafey@sequencestaffing.com
www.sequencestaffing.com

Should you background not match specifically what we are seeking in the Senior Biologist. Please feel free to forward your resume as we currently have a number of positions available in the biological, Ecological and Project Manager arena that your skills and career goals may be a better match. Please view our website at www.sequencestaffing.com

CNIKids on "Edible Plant Instructor Needed! 7-12-2008"

CNIKids — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:20:32 +0000

The Children's Nature Institute, located in Franklin Canyon, Beverly Hills, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit agency that provides environmental education to 8,000 underprivileged children each year. Each program provides children with much needed interactive science educational programs.

As part of this series, we would like to offer a "Tasty Plants Trail" seminar that will show mommies what plants are okay (and not okay) that kiddies will occasionally put in their mouths. Its on July 12th from 9-11 at Franklin Canyon Park in Beverly Hills.

We need a botanist to lead the hike, or teach the staff if they are unable to walk it themselves.

Interested Persons can contact:

Allison Fuller
Director of Community Outreach
The Children's Nature Institute
2600 Franklin Canyon Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90210
310-860-9484 X105
310-860-9019 FAX
Allison@CNI-Kids.org
www.cni-kids.org

kcrook on "Botanist position available in Riverside or San Diego"

kcrook — Thu, 08 May 2008 06:48:53 +0000

AMEC Earth & Environmental (AMEC) is a leading full-service environmental engineering and construction/remediation services firm in North America, providing environmental and geotechnical engineering and scientific consulting services.

AMEC is an international project management and services company that designs, delivers and supports client assets for customers across the public and private sectors. AMEC employs more than 20,000 people working from a network of offices throughout the U.K., U.S. and Canada, as well as regional offices and projects worldwide. AMEC shares are traded on the London Stock Exchange where the company is listed in the Support Services Sector (LSE: AMEC:L). In the United States, AMEC has approximately 3,000 employees operating from 90 offices in 37 states.

AMEC offers competitive salaries along with a complete benefits package including: medical, vision, & dental coverage, 401K Matching, Educational Reimbursement, and a variety of Training and Development Programs to help you develop the skills you need to succeed in your chosen career path. Additional information can be obtained from our website at www.amec.com.

Job
AMEC Earth and Environmental Inc., an environmental consulting firm, seeks an experienced field botanist for positions in our San Diego and Riverside offices for the upcoming field season.

Accountabilities

Includes study design, data collection & analysis, report writing.

Will conduct rare plant surveys, construction oversight, report writing and permitting at the direction of project management.

Knowledge

Bachelors or Masters Degree in biology, wildlife management, botany or other related field.

2-5 years experience in biological surveying, sampling, data collection, and analytical tasks with knowledge of regional flora, and rare plants of California and Nevada.

Desirable qualifications include strong taxonomic skills, Familiarity with the ecosystems of the southwestern US, and particularly southern California, is preferable. .

Excellent written communication skills are required. This position may include threatened and endangered plant species surveys, vegetation mapping, aerial photo interpretation, impact assessments, technical report preparation

Utility line projects a plus.

Although not required wetlands delineation experience, and experience with federal and state permit processes is a plus.

AMEC is committed to the principle of equal opportunity in employment.

By submitting your resume, you consent to AMEC Americas Limited sharing this information within its divisions in order to identify other employment opportunities that you may be suitable for

To Apply: Apply online by clicking on the link below or email resume to Christie.Hardin@amec.com
https://amec.recruitmax.com/ENG/CareerPortal/job_profile.cfm?szOrderID=7124&szUniqueCareerPortalID=cc8e1101-aaaf-4f78-beea-13ad1d90685c

StaciMarkos on "Compositae identification workshop"

StaciMarkos — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 10:48:51 +0000

April 26 – 27, 2008

Beginning with an overview of morphological characteristics of composites (family-wide), including a review of terms used in descriptions and keys, we will provide a synopsis of diversity within Compositae and a brief introduction to recognition of tribes. Then, we will concentrate on Heliantheae (broadly defined) and will ultimately focus on diagnostic traits and relationships of tarweeds (Madiinae), including the diverse kinds of Hawaiian tarweeds known as silverswords, which are glamorous descendants of a Californian tarweed. We hope that this workshop will prove to be an effective solvent for sticky problems in tarweed identification and that participants may even come away with enhanced admiration for tarweeds, one of our most maligned and distinctly Californian groups of plants.

Course fee $225/$250

Instructors: Bruce G. Baldwin and John L. Strother
Location: UC Berkeley

http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/workshops/2008/index.html

Contact: Anna Larsen (alarsen@berkeley.edu; 510-643-7008)

StaciMarkos on "Desert Mountains Workshop"

StaciMarkos — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 10:43:53 +0000

This workshop will focus on the field identification of both common and rare species. The Granite Mountains Desert Research Center will serve as our homebase from which to explore the sky islands of the Mojave. We will travel up to 100 miles each day and hikes will be moderately strenuous. We will be collecting in the field and evenings will be spent identifying collections and preparing herbarium specimens at the research center.

Course fee ($450/$475) includes accommodations, meals, and transportation for the duration of the workshop. Camping will be at a private campground with a pit toilet and stored water.

http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/workshops/2008/index.html

Contact: Anna Larsen (alrsen@berkeley.edu; 510-643-7008)

Anonymous on "Start Up Garden event facility needs botanist"

Anonymous — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 10:59:57 +0000

Hello,

My name is Leah Canon and I am in the process of purchasing some land in Topanga Canyon, "Copper Grapes" for a garden wedding facility. It will be similar to Descanso Gardens with a Rose and Flower Garden for ceremonies. In addition, it will also have a Conservation Garden. I need a botanist to come on board with me so that I can apply for loans and grants in order to get this project started. There are a number of endangered plants that are indigenous to Southern CA and Topanga specifically that I would like to help save and protect. Experience or knowledge of these plants would be most beneficial for the gardens in acquiring seedlings from their custodians: Astragalus brauntonii "Braunton's Milk Vetch"; Atriplex parishii "Parish's brittlescale; Calochortus plummeraw "Plummer's Msriposa Lily", Camissonia lewisii "Lewis' Evening Primrose", Carpenteria californica, Cercocarpus betuloides "California mountain-mahogany", Chamaebatia australis "Southern Mountain Misery", Dichondra occidentalis "Western Dichondra", Hernizonia minthornii "Santa Susana Tarplant", Lasthenia glabrata coulteri "Coulter's Goldfields", Mucronea Californica "California Spineflower", Nama stenocarpum "Mud Nama", Sidalcea neomexicana "Salt Spring Checkerbloom" as well as several Dudleya and several Delphinium endangered varieties. Please contact me leahcanon@msn.com Thank you.

Anonymous on "Full-time field botanist needed in Riverside County"

Anonymous — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 15:02:47 +0000

Description
The Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) Biological Monitoring Program is seeking a field biologist to assist with rare plant surveys in western Riverside County, California. We are seeking staff for our plant field crew to conduct surveys for sensitive plant species in a variety of habitats throughout the county. The hired biologist will work under the direction of the Botany Program Lead. Depending on workload and prior experience, the hired crew may have the opportunity to develop skills pertaining to ArcGIS, database management, herbarium preparation, and other office functions. Additionally, as time allows, the hired crew may have an opportunity to participate in mammal, bird, herpetology and/or invertebrate sensitive species surveys as well.

Application Deadline: February 11, 2008

Pay
Salary ranges from $13.00 to $16.00 per hour, depending on experience, paid bi-weekly. Positions are full-time, permanent and include vacation and sick time, medical insurance, and retirement savings plan.

Examples of Duties
Learn to identify common and rare plant species in western Riverside County; Participate in targeted searches for rare plant species; Identify and record information on plant species and habitat attributes associated with rare plants species; Estimate percent cover of plant species using a variety of methods; Gather population information about rare plant species; Prepare maps and assist in planning field surveys; Work in tough, uneven terrain; Deal with both hot and cold environmental conditions; Hike up to 8 miles in a day; Complete assigned tasks with a minimum of direct supervision in a timely fashion. Additionally, field biologists will be expected to operate 4WD vehicles and digital equipment. Biologists will also be expected to carry a 25–30 pound backpack and may occasionally camp in the field.

Qualifications
Required qualifications: B.A. or B.S. in biology, ecology, plant science, botany or related field. Work towards a bachelor’s degree (with biology related course work) and one or more years of field botany experience may also be acceptable.

Preferred qualifications include some or all of the following: experience using a dichotomous key, especially the Jepson Manual, knowledge of Southern California flora, experience estimating percent cover for plant species, one or more years of field experience with plants.

Other Requirements
A valid U.S. Driver’s License and U.S. citizenship, or the ability to work legally in the U.S. (Declaration of Permission to Work form), are required.

These positions are full-time and intended to last at least 12 months. Qualified and interested candidates should email their resume and a cover letter to:

Diane Menuz
hiring@biomonitoringrca.org

MikeBlackmore on "Senior CEQA/NEPA Project Manager, Staff/Field Biologists & Archaeologists"

MikeBlackmore — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 17:15:13 +0000

Company Profile
URS Corporation, ranked number one on Engineering News-Record’s list of the Top 500 Design since 2001 is a leading provider of planning, design, systems engineering and integration, technology development, program and construction management, and operations and maintenance services to federal, state and local government agencies in the U.S., Fortune 500 corporations worldwide and government clients.

The Planning, Natural & Cultural Resources Departments in our Santa Barbara is looking for Senior & Mid CEQA/NEPA Project Managers, Biologist and Archaeologist.

Senior CEQA/NEPA Project Manager
Position involves permitting large renewable energy and conventional power projects. EIR/EA/EIS document preparation oversight of associated technical studies. Senior team member on projects in a technical and management role to ensure an effective execution and completion of projects. Also, responsible for project budget, cost management, data analysis, agency and client coordination, supervising junior staff. Additionally, it is expected position will support business development in the environmental practice area through, at a minimum, participation in proposal development and presentation. Requirements: Bachelors or Master’s degree in biology, environmental planning, or related field with 15+ years experience in environmental impact assessment (CEQA/NEPA) and permitting, with multiple years in a project manager role. Must have experience in the preparation of EA/EIR/EIS documents and a strong background in CEQA/NEPA technical application processes. Knowledgeable of applicable state, local and federal codes and regulations required. Project experience may include Power Plant Permitting, Air and Noise Permitting, Transportation Planning & Corridor Studies, Endangered Species, Water Resources, Coastal Zoning, Land Use, General Plan Revisions and Updates or similar Infrastructure related projects. Must have strong writing skills and be proficient with MS Office.

Staff/Field Biologist
Will perform biological resources evaluations, develop habitat restoration and management programs, prepare environmental review documents, performance impact assessments, consultation with resource agency staff, manage complex endangered species-related permitting projects, and prepare proposals. Requirements: BS in biology, ecology, botany or similar field with minimum of 1 year private or public sector experience in related position conducting field and wildlife surveys and plant identification. Must be a team player and critical thinker with excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Archaeologist
Archaeological field survey, archeological excavation and site testing, assistance with report preparation, DPR 523 forms, and data entry. Requirements: BA/BS in relevant field with 1 year basic archaeological field experience in Central and Southern California. Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills.

How To Apply
URS Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strongly supports diversity in our workforce. M/F/V/D. We offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. For immediate consideration please submit your resume to mike_blackmore@urscorp.com

CNPS on "Botany/Ecology Positions at California Native Plant Society"

CNPS — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 18:53:30 +0000

FROM: CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY
DATE: 01/22/2008

The California Native Plant Society is seeking applicants for up to 12 Botanist/Ecologist positions for field work in the spring/summer 2008. At least three of these positions may extend into April 2009.
Successful candidates will participate in vegetation inventory and mapping projects in collaboration with the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). Candidates will be hired as either a Team Leader
or a Field Assistant, depending on qualifications and experience.

The principal focus of this work will support a vegetation mapping and classification project in the Sierra Nevada Foothills and the San Joaquin Valley ecosystems of California. As defined here, this includes the foothills above the Central Valley to around 1200 m in elevation, as well as the Carrizo Plain, Temblor Range, Elk Hills, and the San Joaquin Valley south of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in plant ecology, landscape ecology, botany, geography, and conservation in California.

The CNPS botany / ecology positions offer experience in the collection of field survey data using standardized CNPS vegetation protocols. CNPS maintains a uniform system for vegetation sampling,
vegetation classification and mapping, and plant information databases. Developed over the past 15 years by CNPS, these systems are used by both government and non-government institutions. Physical
job requirements include sitting, driving, carrying, lifting, standing, and hiking. The position requires the ability to work long field days under rigorous conditions (including inclement conditions), to hike in rugged terrain, and to lift/carry equipment that is up to 1/3 of your body weight.

Qualifications for the successful applicant include the following:
- Basic knowledge of plant taxonomy and vegetation sampling
techniques.
- Identification of plants to the species level, with a focus on the
identification of California’s Central Valley and Sierra Nevada
Flora.
- Proven ability to conduct fieldwork in varied environmental
conditions, including inclement weather and poison oak.
- Good organizational skills, enthusiasm and a positive attitude.
- Undergraduate degree in biology, botany, or a related field - OR -
work towards an undergraduate degree with completed courses
including plant taxonomy, field botany, sampling design, or related
courses.
- Ability to take direction and to work well in a team setting.
- Ability to drive 4X4 vehicles over variable terrain.
- A valid driver’s license, proof of current car insurance, and a
safe driving record are required.

Additional experience / skills for Team Leaders:
- Strong background in California plant identification and experience
conducting vegetation sampling.
- Ability to lead field assistants and ensure safe working
environment while navigating in variable terrain.
- Ability to coordinate daily field tasks.
- Manage data for field team, ensuring data are recorded and entered
accurately, consistently, and efficiently.
- Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
- Experience using GPS (Global Positioning System) units and other
plant survey equipment (e.g., tape measure, compass).
- Experience with databases and/or spreadsheets.

The salary is offered at $13.50 to $16.70 per hour, commensurate with experience. These are full-time, temporary field positions, beginning in March 2008 and extending into July 2008. Additional work is
available for some Team Leaders from August 2008 to April 2009, in the field and office. Extended employment may be possible through future grants/contracts.

To apply, submit the following materials: cover letter of interest, résumé or curriculum vitae, and three references (including reference name, address, phone number, and email). Please indicate whether you
are applying for the Team Leader and/or Field Assistant positions. The primary contact is Jennifer Buck, Vegetation Ecologist. Send your application materials via post mail, fax, or email to:

California Native Plant Society
2707 K Street, Suite 1
Sacramento, CA 95816
Attn: Vegetation Positions
Fax: (916) 447-2727
Email: jbuck@cnps.org

Application deadline and interview: Review of applications will begin in February, although the positions will remain open until filled. Please see the CNPS website for a detailed description of the jobs,
and descriptions of the CNPS organization and Vegetation Program at www.cnps.org.

The California Native Plant Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F

donalddavidson on "speakers needed re: old spanish trail 6-5-08"

donalddavidson — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:26:24 +0000

Speaker, audio/visual presenter or workshop facilitator needed for Old Spanish Trail annual conference in Espanola (northwest of Santa Fe, NM) for sometime June 5-8, 2008.

Topic: Native plants of the Old Spanish Trail (www.oldspanishtrail.org).
Of most interest would be medicinal, food, clothing use and related lore.
General botany of the 2700 mile Santa Fe to Los Angeles (or any special portion of) also welcome.

Contact:
donald davidson
association manager
old spanish trail association
www.oldspanishtrail.org
davidson@interpretnature.us
tel: 202-744-3647

CNPS on "Vegetation Data Coordinator Position at California Native Plant Society"

CNPS — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 17:10:58 +0000

VEGETATION DATA COORDINATOR – JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

FROM: CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY
DATE: 01/09/2008

The California Native Plant Society is seeking an experienced ecologist, biologist, or GIS analyst for the Vegetation Program to work full-time on vegetation projects involving surveying, databasing, mapping, and describing vegetation throughout the state.

The principal focus of the work over the next year will support a vegetation mapping and classification project in the Sierra Nevada Foothills and the San Joaquin Valley ecosystems of California. As defined here, this includes the foothills above the Central Valley to around 1200 m in elevation, and it also includes the Carrizo Plain, Temblor Range, and Elk Hills, and the San Joaquin Valley south of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in plant ecology, landscape ecology, botany, geography, and conservation in California.

The CNPS Vegetation Data Coordinator position offers experience in mission planning for field sampling, compiling and quality controlling field survey data, managing field and GIS data, mapping vegetation, categorizing vegetation through analyses and reports, and training and supervising others in the field or office. Compiling and analyzing field survey information collected by CNPS, cooperating agencies, and other organizations is an important facet of the job. CNPS maintains a uniform system for vegetation sampling, vegetation classification and mapping, and plant information databases. Developed over the past 15 years by CNPS, these systems are used by both government and non-government institutions.

Qualifications for the successful applicant include the following:
. A BS/BA degree in biology, ecology, or related field; graduate work in biology, plant ecology, or
geography is desirable
. Knowledge of California vegetation and/or the California flora
. Experience in biological fieldwork and in plant/vegetation survey techniques
. Proficiency in entering, quality controlling, assembling, and managing large datasets in databases
and spreadsheets (MS Access experience desired)
. Ability to interpret topographic, vegetation, aerial photography, and other maps
. Experience with GPS units and with GIS software (e.g., ArcView and/or ArcGIS)
. Ability to analyze vegetation and environmental data in statistical and/or GIS software
. Strong observational, writing, verbal, analytical, and organizational skills with attention to detail
. Ability to work efficiently, independently, and as part of a team
. Experience in supervising individuals and training or teaching people.

The salary is offered at $45,000 to $50,000 per year, commensurate with experience. The position is full-time with secured funding for at least eleven months, and extended employment may be possible through future grants/ contracts.

To apply, submit the following materials: cover letter of interest, résumé or curriculum vitae, and three references (including reference name, address, phone number, and email). Please send your application materials via post mail, fax, or email to:
California Native Plant Society
2707 K Street, Suite 1
Sacramento, CA 95816
Attn: Vegetation Position
Fax: (916) 447-2727

Primary contact is Julie M. Evens, Senior Vegetation Ecologist, at jevens@cnps.org.

Application deadline and interview: Review of applications will begin by January 22, 2007, although the position will remain open until it is filled. Interviews will begin on or after January 24, 2007 - by phone or in person. Please see the CNPS website for detailed description of the job, and descriptions of the CNPS organization and Vegetation Program at www.cnps.org.

The California Native Plant Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F

jbuck on "Vegetation Project Leader / Assistant, CA Native Plant Society"

jbuck — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 12:37:20 +0000

The position will support Vegetation Program efforts of the California Native Plant Society CNPS) to inventory, describe, and map California's vegetation. The position works with CNPS staff, Chapter volunteers, and the Vegetation Committee to support activities such as the Manual of California Vegetation book revision, vegetation classification and mapping, field sampling and trainings, field data and analysis, and general outreach. The position also works directly with the California Department of Fish and Game (DFG), other public agencies, and conservation organizations. The Vegetation Project Leader / Assistant position reports directly to the Vegetation Ecologist, and it requires a highly organized, detail-oriented individual.

Organization Description
Founded in 1965, CNPS is a statewide non-profit organization that has grassroots and
volunteer-based efforts. CNPS is dedicated to increasing understanding and appreciation of California’s native plants and to conserve them and their natural habitats through scientific study, education, advocacy, horticulture, and land stewardship. CNPS has goals of habitat conservation through science-based methods and has been a state leader in developing protocols for inventorying and classifying vegetation, now widely used by many agencies and organizations. CNPS has approximately 10,000 members organized in 33 chapters, and it has 14 state and local staff.

CNPS Vegetation Program
The CNPS Vegetation Program is dedicated to developing and maintaining information
resources about California native plants, natural plant communities, and ecosystems. The
Program is developing quantifiable definitions of all types of vegetation in California to promote science-based conservation at the natural community level. The program views vegetation as the best single expression of the range of ecological variation, which can be depicted in maps across any landscape and can be described with standard analytical vegetation descriptions. The Program maintains a uniform system of vegetation sampling protocols and vegetation classification. The protocols have been developed over the past 15 years by the CNPS Vegetation Committee, and include the CNPS Vegetation Rapid Assessment Protocol and the CNPS Relevé method. Quantitative data collected and archived by CNPS provides information directly for A Manual of California Vegetation, a CNPS publication on vegetation classification. The sampling and classification methods of the Program have become standards for documenting vegetation patterns, utilized by state and federal agencies such as California State Parks, the California Department of Fish and Game (DFG), the Forest Service, and the National
Park Service. The Program also works directly with DFG and other public agencies and
conservation organizations on vegetation classification and mapping projects around the state. Information about the CNPS organization, staff, protocols, and projects can be found at www.cnps.org.

Experience & Skills
The Vegetation Project Leader / Assistant must have the following skills and abilities:
• General botanical and ecology knowledge, California botany and floristics, conservation biology, and vegetation ecology.
• Identification of plants to the species level.
• General understanding of scientific methods and basic field sampling techniques for
plants and vegetation (e.g., knowledge of the relevé, rapid assessment methods).
• Strong general computer literacy (Windows OS, Word, Excel, and email at minimum),
and strong database management skills and data entry proficiency (e.g., MS Access).
• Strong writing, verbal, analytical, and organizational skills, with an attention to detail.
• Ability to work and communicate effectively with a wide variety of people, including
CNPS volunteers, agency personnel, academics, and other professional and amateur
botanists.
• Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), ArcGIS/ArcView, and
vegetation mapping.
• Ability to work independently, to take direction, to train/teach others, and to work as part of the CNPS team.
• Ability to work long days in the field under various conditions including hot and cold
weather over a variety of terrain; ability to monitor safe working conditions.
• High degree of commitment and dedication to plant conservation goals.
• Minimum education: Undergraduate degree in botany, biology, or the equivalent.
• Physical job requirements include sitting, driving, carrying, lifting, standing, and hiking.

Principal Duties & Responsibilities
The duties of the Vegetation Leader or Assistant may include:
• Assist the principal authors in the editing of vegetation descriptions, reviewing of
geographic maps, and other details for the Manual of California Vegetation.
• Perform data entry, data cleansing, quality control, and management of vegetation data. Organize digital/slide photos.
• Provide research and information on rare plants and vegetation types by utilizing the
CNPS Inventory, the DFG Natural Diversity Database, Geographic Information Systems
(GIS), and agency contacts.
• Assist in vegetation mapping efforts. Use imagery and GIS/mapping techniques to
interpret and delineate vegetation patterns. Create projects in ArcGIS/ArcView.
• Work directly to support the efforts of the Vegetation Ecologist to compile vegetation
data in databases such as the California Vegetation Information System (CVIS)
database and rapid assessment database.
• Develop and write standardized descriptions of vegetation, based on information
collected in vegetation sampling projects of CNPS as well as other affiliated agencies
and organization projects such as DFG, National Parks, and NatureServe.
• Collect both quantitative and qualitative vegetation and environmental data using the
CNPS vegetation methods from various project locations in California.
• Assist in outreach, planning, and providing training and supervision of field assistants or volunteers in vegetation survey collection for local chapters and the public.
• General maintenance and organization of vegetation program equipment, supplies, etc.
• Periodically attend monthly CNPS staff, Vegetation Committee, and quarterly Chapter
Council meetings. Represent CNPS and the Vegetation Program at meetings as needed.
• Other job duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements
Physical job requirements include sitting, driving, carrying, lifting, standing, and hiking. The position requires office work with prolonged sitting and use of a computer and mouse, as well as some standing and bending. It also requires the ability to work long field days under rigorous conditions (including inclement conditions), to hike in rugged terrain, and to lift/carry equipment that is up to 1/3 of your body weight.

Additional Job Requirements
• Work times are generally eight hour days for five days a week, usually Monday to Friday.
• The main location for office work is in Sacramento, California; field work may be in various locations in the state.
• A valid California driver’s license and proof of car insurance are required, provided annually.

Salary
The position is offered at $14.42-18.27 per hour, commensurate with experience. This is a fulltime,temporary position with secured funding for at least 3 months. Extended employment is likely to include field projects in central and northern California, and is based on future contract funding.

To Apply
Please provide the following application materials: a cover letter, resume or curriculum vitae, and a list of three references (including reference name, address, phone number, and email, as references will be checked before hiring).

Your primary contact is Jennifer Buck, Vegetation Ecologist. Send your application materials via post mail, via fax, or via email to:
California Native Plant Society
2707 K Street, Suite 1
Sacramento, CA 95816
Attn: Vegetation Position
Fax: (916) 447-2727
jbuck@cnps.org

Application Deadline
Application is open until position is filled. Acceptable applicants may be contacted immediately after receipt of application, starting by Dec 10, 2007. Interviews may begin during the week of Dec 17-21, 2007, by phone or in person.