Conservation Internship at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, Summer 2024

Supervisor: Emily Griffoul, Conservation Scientist

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is uniquely positioned to address conservation of the fragile alpine environment. The Gardens is spearheading the implementation of the North American Botanic Garden Strategy for Alpine Plant Conservation to understand and protect this special habitat.

We are looking for a recent college graduate to assist our Conservation Scientist with the summer 2024 field season. Work will include extensive time in the alpine areas of Colorado collecting and documenting alpine plants and managing data and collections on-site at the Gardens. Occasionally, the team will travel overnight and/or camp, including in the backcountry. The ideal candidate will be passionate about conservation and alpine ecosystems, be organized, self-motivated, a team player, a diligent worker, and interested in developing leadership skills. S/he will also have experience identifying plants in the field using a dichotomous key and be comfortable working outside in tough conditions.

Duties:

Identify alpine plants in the field using dichotomous key and build comprehensive species lists for each site
Survey alpine plant areas and monitor rare species populations
Collect seeds and vouchers of alpine plants
Prepare voucher specimens to be sent to herbarium
Record data, including GPS coordinates, soil type, slope, aspect, vegetation type, associated species, land manager, conservation status and more
Keep detailed, organized records of field and lab activities
Supervise volunteers both in the field and in the lab
Clean and count seed collections
Enter and check data both on paper and electronically
Label and organize photos from the field
Participate in garden events, workshops and educational outreach seminars
Occasionally provide garden visitors with information
Post social media updates and blog posts relating to conservation
Help with projects and duties as staff needs

Requirements:

Recently graduated from college with a focus on environmental science, ecology, plant science, and/or conservation
Ability and experience using a dichotomous key
Practical previous experience in an ecological field setting
Valid driver’s license and access to vehicle
Passion for conservation and ecological research
Works well in a team setting and communicates efficiently and effectively
Physical requirements:
Ability to hike at elevation in remote areas on steep, difficult terrain in inclement weather (rain, snow, heat, sun, etc)
Ability to carry up to 50lbs of equipment
Ability to spend full days in the field (4+ a week), office, and lab settings, and occasionally overnight camping trips in remote areas

Desired Skills:

Ability to work independently and solve problems
Experience using Google Workspace and Microsoft Excel
Picks up new skills quickly and adapts to new information and situations
Understanding of Colorado mountain ecosystems and their native plants
Basic understanding of conservation topics and rare plant management techniques
Excellent attention to detail
Organized and self-directed
Backcountry hiking and camping experience

Internship Details:

$500/ week stipend, plus shared housing provided in Vail
Internships start June 2024, and end late September 2024
Internship promotes studying and understanding alpine plants, mountain ecosystems, and the inner workings of a small nonprofit botanic gardens

To apply for the Conservation Internship, please email a resume, cover letter, and contact for two references to our Conservation Scientist, Emily Griffoul, at emily@bettyfordalpinegardens.org.