WETLAND INTERNSHIP

Background
In August 2001, SMC amended its Watershed Development Ordinance (WDO) to include protection for isolated wetlands. The WDO requires that developments must maintain between 80% and 150% of the pre-development storm runoff volume to preserved wetlands. SMC is studying preserved wetlands on a number of post-development sites to evaluate the effectiveness of this 80-150 hydrology requirement.

Duties/Responsibilities
SMC is seeking one (1) wetland intern to work with us this summer. The wetland intern will spend time in the field and office under the guidance of SMC staff. This position will allow the intern to apply classroom experiences to real world applications by collecting data for later analysis both by the intern and SMC staff. This position will also expose the intern to many aspects of SMC’s wetland regulatory program. Representative tasks include:
-Review wetland permit files to compile a list of projects that included wetlands impacted by development under the WDO.
– Work with our wetland specialists to assess development-related hydrologic effects on wetlands.
-Plant identification skills a plus for this position.

Qualifications
Graduate of, or current student in, a 2- or 4-year program with an emphasis on environmental science, ecology, biology or related natural resources field. Applicants must be able to work both inside and outside, in variable conditions and be willing to engage in limited to moderately strenuous physical activity. Applicants must be able to use Microsoft Office software. Experience with the ArcView geographic information systems (GIS) software is also desirable. Applicants must have their own transportation for traveling to and from field sites. Class credit may be available for this internship; please check with your academic advisor.

Additional Information
The wetland intern will work approximately 40 hours per week for up to 12 weeks; the start date is flexible. Pay will be $12.50 per hour. Successful candidates will be subject to a pre-employment physical and drug screening. If you are interested in the wetland internship at the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission this summer and have any questions, please contact Joe Hmieleski by email or phone. To apply for an internship, please submit a letter of application and resume to SMC. Applications will be accepted until February 28th or until the position is filled.