Intern - Natural Areas Management

Minnetrista Museum & Gardens•Muncie, IN

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

As a Natural Areas Management Intern, your primary goal is to provide valuable support to the Horticulture Department while acquiring in-depth knowledge of vegetation management within the context of natural resource management. The internship places a strong emphasis on invasive plant control, offering comprehensive training in management techniques, equipment usage, chemical applications, and plant identification within the dynamic environment of a museum and public garden. Minnetrista boasts approximately thirteen acres of diverse Natural Areas, each requiring unique management strategies. Working closely with Minnetrista's experienced gardeners, you will gain hands-on experience in maintaining these natural areas. Your responsibilities will encompass a range of tasks, including chemical applications, manual removal of invasive plants, native plant installation, and various other maintenance activities related to natural areas. Additionally, you will undertake an independent project tailored to your interests and the organization's needs. Reporting department: Horticulture Department Reporting supervisor and training provided by: Director of Horticulture, Horticulture Specialist Length of appointment: 200 hour minimum Time commitment and Stipend: 20-40 hours per week preferred. Other schedules may be considered (Monday – Friday 7am-3:40pm). A project and time commitment-based stipend of up to $1,000, dependent on the quality and scope of the completed internship hours and project.

Requirements

Ability to work outside in varying weather conditions
Ability to work independently
An interest in the natural environment is a must.
Course work in natural resource management
Interest in having training on safe chemical usage
Must be reliable and work well with both staff and volunteers.

Nice To Haves

Training in plant identification is beneficial.

Responsibilities

Complete an independent project
Learn and implement vegetation management techniques
Adhere to all safety policies and procedures
Expand plant knowledge
Give a presentation
Conduct biodiversity assessment: collect and analyze data related to vegetation management, invasive species control, and native plant installations to assist in decision-making processes.
Community Engagement: engage with the local community to raise awareness about the importance of natural resource management, possibly through educational programs or guided tours of the natural areas.
Research and Recommendations: stay informed about the latest research in horticulture and natural resource management; provide recommendations for improving existing practices.
Habitat Restoration: participate in habitat restoration projects within the natural areas, including activities such as native restoration, tree planting, and erosion control.
Record Keeping: maintain accurate records of plant species, treatment methods, project and internship documentation.
Social Media and Outreach: contribute to social media content and outreach efforts to share the progress and impact of natural areas management with a broader audience.
Training Assistance: assist in training new interns or volunteers in vegetation management techniques and safety procedures.