Land Stewardship

Job description: These interns conduct needed land management/maintenance on prairies, wetlands, savannas and other natural areas owned or protected by INHF. On stormy days, these interns might assist with other "farm" chores like equipment or building maintenance (training provided as needed). Supervised by Joe McGovern and Brian Fankhauser (INHF's land stewardship staff). These interns work 40 hours a week (Monday through Thursday, 10 hours each). They often camp on work sites.

Applicant requirements: Past interns in this position have included Animal Ecology, Botany, Biology, Environmental Studies or Environmental Science majors and several other majors. This particular internship requires someone willing to work outdoors in all conditions (especially summer heat). It is physically demanding but provides excellent hands-on experience with natural land management. You will work very hard in all weathers, but--especially if you ask questions--you'll gain invaluable hands-on experience and knowledge from two Iowa prairie experts. Driving to various work sites is required so you must have a working car. Any grade level, even freshman, are eligible for this particular internship. Experience and/or farm background helps, but enjoying outdoor work is crucial.

Statewide stewardship crew: Approximately two-thirds of the time will be spent in eastern and northeastern Iowa. The crew will focus on lands permanently protected by INHF, whether through INHF ownership or private ownership with an INHF conservation easement. There will be opportunities to work on Iowa's various landscapes, including savannas, fens, cold-water trout streams, goat prairies, Loess Hills, wetlands, Mississippi blufflands, and everything in between!

NOTE: Because of the large coverage area, applicants must have the ability to travel and the willingness to camp outdoors overnight. Job availability: 8 to 10 full-time interns for summer semester only. The job begins in mid-May and ends after the first week of August.


For more information, e-mail Laurie Fenimore, INHF's internship coordinator, or call (515) 288-1846.