The role of the Land Steward.
Land Steward Role:
Green Forest is a non-profit nature sanctuary. Its team is built around the Land Steward–the person who is the sanctuary’s care giver, the one who gets things done, and who is the closest to the land. The three supporting team “members” include the Board of Directors whose role is to assure the stability of the Green Forest foundation and to see that it is succeeding in its Mission; the Managing Restoration Ecologist whose role, while limited time, is to “read” the ecological status of each of the management units and, using his/ her broader experience, to plan and oversee restoration activities; and the Consulting Restoration Ecologist role is to give a second opinion on the status of the sanctuary.
The Land Steward will be involved in planning, executing, and monitoring restoration progress. He/she will develop a close connection with the plants and animals and witness the changes produced by this effort. While the Managing Restoration Ecologist will train, coach, and advise, almost all of the work is done solo and the focus is on getting things done. If you are comfortable working alone, planning each work day, and taking satisfaction in completing tasks; this would be a good fit for you. Most days will have a variety of tasks to work on and often you can switch from one to another to keep things fresh. Of course, this is outdoor work–some days are hot, some cold, some windy, and some exquisite.
Our approach to restoration differs from what most contractors do: we work at a fine scale and on a long time frame. To succeed we depend on the success of the Land Steward. Attention to details, a curiosity about the plants and animals of the sanctuary, and intimately knowing the land over many years are essential. The ideal Land Steward is someone who finds satisfaction in nurturing and growing living plants and animals and who has roots in the local community. This can be a long term career– witnessing revitalization over time. We will train, provide all the tools and supplies, and encourage the Land Steward’s natural history skill development.
Job Duties for this half time permanent position:
You will be responsible for the work to create and maintain a high quality 500 acre nature sanctuary in the Baraboo Hills. Work independently doing a wide variety of self-directed, outdoor field work. See the impact of your efforts in bringing to life a home for native plants and animals. Prefer someone with farm experience and who grew up in Sauk County, Wisconsin. Great off farm employment to support a small farm.
Responsibilities
- Completion of the annual work plan developed by our Restoration Ecologist with your input. Activities include assisting with prescribed burns, collecting and spreading seed, tree planting, invasive control, trail maintenance, and more.
- Learn about our native plants, bird, insects and help them survive.
- Set your weekly work times around the weather and the season. You need to be responsible and get the job done.
- Equipment maintenance.
Skills
- Self directing, self starting, and good at problem solving.
- This is physical work-- on your feet and often carrying tools that weigh 10-40 lbs.
- Curiosity to learn about native plants and animals.
- Experience with a 39 HP tractor is a plus.
- Will train and all equipment is supplied.
Join us in making a difference by restoring the non-profit Green Forest Nature Sanctuary to become one the highest quality oak woodlands in southern Wisconsin.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $28.00 - $32.00 per hour
Benefits:
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person
