Internship summary

The Forestry and Restoration Intern is responsible for implementing science-based restoration practices on lands owned or managed by Adaptive Restoration’s clients. The intern works under supervision of our full-time staff members. During this internship, you will develop knowledge, skills, abilities and experience in the science and practice of forestry and restoration ecology. You will learn hands-on land stewardship skills using Southwest Wisconsin’s prairies, savannas and woodlands as your office.

What you will learn

• Identification of native and non-native plants of Wisconsin
• Ecological restoration theory and practice
• Hands-on restoration and land stewardship skills
• Business organization and management

Essential functions

• Assist with and implement science-based land management and restoration practices, including herbicide application, brush cutting, mowing, weeding, seeding, and tree felling.
• Work outdoors with a field staff of 1-8 employees, volunteers, or subcontractors.
• Assist with ecological assessments and monitoring of prairies, savannas, wetlands, forests and other natural areas.
• Assist with company communications, advertising, and outreach.
• Track and document use of restoration-related materials, and internship-related expenses and hours worked.
• Bring a sense of humor, strong work ethic and positive attitude to the work site.

Required education and experience

Must be a graduate, accepted for enrollment, or currently enrolled in a undergraduate or graduate-level program related to ecological or natural resources, such as Botany, Biology, Environmental Science, Forestry, Geography, Landscape Architecture, Agronomy, Wildlife Ecology, or Soil Science. Students enrolled in other fields of study (e.g. Business, English, Fine Arts, Political Science, or Engineering) are encouraged to apply. Those with relevant field experience or enrolled in high school are also encouraged to apply.

Required certifications and licenses

• Wisconsin Commercial Pesticide Applicator (must be obtained within 30 days of start date)
• Valid Wisconsin Drivers License

Required knowledge, skills and abilities

• Ability to lift and carry large objects such as logs, tree branches, and water containers weighing up to 70 pounds.
• Ability to safely operate a 4-wheel drive motor vehicle off road.
• Ability to work outdoors in steep, rugged terrain in adverse weather conditions, including wind, rain, and temperatures ranging from 0F – 95F.
• Ability to work under minimal supervision.
• Ability to use gas-powered tools such as chainsaws, brush cutters, and mowers.
• Ability to acquire and maintain necessary licenses, permits and certifications.
• Ability to identify native and non-native plants in the field.
• Ability to meet our crew on site or at our shop, on time (must have reliable transportation).
• Skilled at completing tasks efficiently with attention to detail.

Desired knowledge, experience and certifications

• Plant identification skills
• Natural history expertise
• Mechanical aptitude with power tools
• Current CPR/First Aid Certification (WFR or WFA preferred)
• Experience gardening, farming or landscaping
• Prescribed fire experience (if interested in participating in our spring burn season)

Benefits

• Training stipend
• Safety equipment allowance
• Paid time off