Overview
Position Summary:
The Forestry Technician’s duties at Salmon Valley Stewardship will primarily focus on conducting natural regeneration surveys, assisting with planting units layouts, thinning unit layouts, and other forestry related projects as needed near Salmon, Idaho. The majority of the technicians time will be spent in the field performing surveys to determine post wildfire stand conditions, identifying timber types, ground vegetation, insect and disease damage. Other time will be spent entering and checking data or helping with other SVS natural resource program activities. This position is dependent on travel and site access conditions. Work will start with training in June with Forest Service partners, and project completion early fall. Position may be extended through October if funding is available.
Qualifications:
Knowledge of common tree species and basic ground vegetation in the Pacific Northwest ideal.
Knowledge of common forestry practices to perform exams competently preferable.
Possess skills suitable for working and camping in remote and rugged outdoor environments with variable weather, sometimes alone.
A safe driving record, high comfort level with operating a 4-wheel-drive vehicle on rough roads.
A high level of physical fitness (ability to hike up to 5-10 miles with a light pack daily).
The ability to use a hand-held GPS device and data recording devices such as a tablet.
Self-motivation and initiative, organization and efficiency.
Willingness to work flexible hours to accommodate field days when necessary.
Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment, and in small teams of two.
Ability to train volunteers in various monitoring protocols and plant identification.
Must have the ability to enjoy a good laugh with a bunch of tree nerds
Position Description:
Performs surveys to determine stand conditions, needs for reforestation and the need for precommercial thinning and/or treatment.
Collects data on density and condition of trees and ground vegetation; insect, disease, and animal damage of stands.
Assist in layout, flagging and GPS’ing perimeters for thinning and planting unit polygons.
Performs safe working practices. The work is performed in a forest environment where terrain may be uneven, rocky, and covered with thick vegetation. Climatic conditions range from extremely hot and dry to extremely cold and wet. Rain, snow, wind, or dust may be encountered. The work involves regular and recurring risks or discomforts that require safety precautions or the use of safety equipment such as boots, gloves, goggles, and hardhats.
About Salmon Valley Stewardship
Salmon Valley Stewardship, founded in 2004, works to promote a sustainable economy and healthy environment in the Salmon Valley Region of Central Idaho. SVS works with the Salmon-Challis National Forest Service to collect timber data to inform the management of forests, restoration projects and treatments within the SCNF. SVS crews work with public land management agencies and wildlife management agencies to collect vegetation, aspen, timber, and riparian data to be used in establishing baseline conditions, assess trends, and prioritize restoration projects.
