Berkshire Natural Resources Council Blog

Landkeeper's Blog

Join us in our mission to keep land open for everyone to visit and enjoy.
Scroll down to see what we're up to!
10 Jul 2020
Landkeeper Notes Permalink

Trail Crew Member

July 10, 2020

TRAIL CREW MEMBER.pdf

Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC), a private, non-profit land trust based in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, is offering a Trail Crew position to someone interested in hands on, rewarding work throughout 11,000 acres and 60+ miles of trails under BNRC supervision and some of the most spectacular natural environments in Berkshire County.

This is a full-time, seasonal position (through October 30, weather permitting) involving the construction of new hiking trails and the reconstruction/maintenance of existing trails on Berkshire Natural Resources Council properties.  The majority of the season will be spent maintaining hiking trails and paths, and constructing trail features such as retaining walls, steps, bog bridging, hiking tread, and other trail features.  Other duties include hiking existing trails to clear blowdowns, assess trail maintenance needs and make repairs, and other stewardship related tasks.  The crew may also assist with outreach events such as volunteer workdays.  Trail Crew members often work solo and self-motivation is required. Trail Crew members report directly to the Trails Coordinator.

BNRC prioritizes employee health and safety and as such, COVID-19 related guidelines are in effect.  Applicants must be able and willing to follow state health and safety protocols as well as those instituted by BNRC.  BNRC provides basic PPE to field staff.

Responsibilities

  • Complete reconstructive building projects including, but not limited to: tread construction, tread hardening, rock construction (cribbing, staircases).
  • Perform trail maintenance (with appropriate training and guidance) to a high standard of quality.
  • Work collaboratively with trail crewmates, staff across the organization, and with volunteers, youth and professional trail crews while maintaining ongoing social distancing guidelines.
  • Represent BNRC with integrity and professionalism at work and when engaging with the public.
  • Use and maintain tools and equipment to high safety standards.
  • Other duties as required.

Requirements

  • Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with other team members.
  • Ability to complete assigned projects and tasks, meet deadlines and manage multiple tasks.
  • Ability to learn on the job and adopt specific construction methods and skills as prescribed.
  • Commitment to natural resource protection and Leave No Trace ethics.
  • Strong commitment to quality work, a positive attitude, and a professional demeanor.
  • Commitment to friendly and helpful interaction with hikers and other BNRC visitors on the trails and in public
  •  Interest in learning about trail design and treatments and developing trail building skills
  • Must be able to hike with up to 50 pounds of gear and tools.
  • Must be willing to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions.
  • Must be able to travel throughout Berkshire County to work in remote locations.
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.  Due to state COVID-19 guidelines, crew members are required to utilize personal vehicles for transportation to and from work sites.  Mileage beyond a certain baseline distance will be reimbursed.
  • Trail building experience or landscape construction experience is welcomed but not necessary to apply; the right candidate will have a willingness to learn, a strong work ethic, and an open mind.

Benefits

This is a seasonal, non-exempt, hourly paid position, based in Pittsfield, MA.  $14-$16 per hour depending on experience.  BNRC offers excellent benefits including 401k eligibility, as well as health insurance, sick and vacation time.  Please submit a cover letter, resume and three references to Tyler Fogg c/o frontdesk@bnrc.org.

 

Posted 7/10/2020

 

08 Jul 2020
Uncategorized, Volunteer Permalink

Summer 2020 Volunteer Workdays

July 8, 2020

We’re excited to share volunteer workday opportunities for the summer below. We have heard from many of you that you would like to start volunteering again with BNRC as soon as possible. The workdays have been designed with social distancing guidelines in mind. Following State and CDC guidelines we’ve established safety protocols that all participants must adhere to. Please note that if a rollback of phasing occurs, workdays will be canceled. Also, we understand that many may not feel comfortable participating at this time—and that is absolutely fine. Your support is equally as valuable to us and we look forward to a time when it is safe to gather in our traditional ways.  

After reviewing the safety protocols and workdays below please RSVP to Mariah at maman@bnrc.org with your top choices up to 4 (ranking 1-4) by Sunday, July 12th (a response later than that will also be considered). You’ll receive a follow-up email with more details. We want to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to participate that would like to. This system may shift as we move forward and we appreciate your patience.  

Lastly, for those who are interested in a volunteer opportunity with more autonomy we’re looking for trailhead ambassadors to be present for an hour or so at trailheads during popular times. This person would simply greet hikers as they head out or return, answer any questions, and direct them to resources. Candidates for trailhead ambassadors are volunteers who feel confident in sharing trail information, suggesting other trails, and are familiar with BNRC’s website and the BNRC Berkshire Trails app. Our recommendation is someone who has completed the volunteer training and has attended at least one workday in the past. The outlined safety protocols must be followed as well. Please be in touch if this interests you and I’ll share more information!  

Safety Protocols 

  • BNRC volunteer workdays will be limited to 3-4 participants that must RSVP. Staff members will not count toward the total participants.  
  • Self-screen your health and don’t come to a workday if: 
    • You or somebody in your household experiences COVID–19 symptoms or has traveled within the past 2 weeks to a location where COVID cases are high. 
    • Anyone in your household has been exposed to someone with COVID-19.   
  • Participants must bring a face mask to wear in the event that social distancing is not possible. BNRC will have extra in case someone forgets theirs. 
  • Participants must practice social distancing by remaining 6 feet away from others on the trail. This includes stepping off the trail to let other visitors pass. 
  • Participants must bring their own water, snacks, and work gloves. BNRC will have work gloves to provide you to keep if necessary.  

Berkshire Natural Resources Council Summer 2020 Volunteer Workdays 

Saturday, July 18, 9:00 am – noon (4 volunteers) RSVP CAPACITY REACHED
The Boulders, Dalton Avenue Access, Pittsfield 

We’ll be working to remove old trail markers along the Blue Trail. This will help to establish a clear trail blazing system. This work involves using a step or small ladder and tool to pry the old marker. BNRC will provide all tools and will sanitize them prior to use. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring a mask, water, and a snack. The outlined safety protocols must be followed.  

Sunday, July 19, 9:00 am – noon (4 volunteers) RSVP CAPACITY REACHED
The Boulders, Dalton Avenue Access, Pittsfield 

We’ll be working to remove old trail markers along the Red Trail. This will help to establish a clear trail blazing system. This work involves using a step or small ladder and tool to pry the old marker. BNRC will provide all tools and will sanitize them prior to use. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring a mask, water, and a snack. The outlined safety protocols must be followed.  

Friday, July 24, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm (4 volunteers) RSVP CAPACITY REACHED
Hollow Fields, Richmond 

This workday will be focused on clearing the trail corridor of the soon-to-be signed Perry’s Peak Loop. We’ll hike approximately 4 miles with elevation gain. BNRC will provide all tools and will sanitize them prior to use. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring a mask, water, and a snack. If you have loppers and/or pruners, please feel free to bring. The outlined safety protocols must be followed.  

Friday, August 7, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm (4 volunteers) RSVP CAPACITY REACHED
Alford Springs, Alford 

Join us in re-blazing the 2.4-mile Mother Loop. This work involves painting over old trail blazes. BNRC will provide all tools and will sanitize them prior to use. Please wear clothes you don’t mind getting paint on, sturdy shoes, and bring a mask, water, and a snack. The outlined safety protocols must be followed.  

Wednesday, August 12, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm (4 volunteers) RSVP CAPACITY REACHED
Hollow Fields, Richmond 

Help to install sign posts for the new Perry’s Peak Loop. This work involves carrying cedar posts and digging post holes. BNRC will provide all tools and will sanitize them prior to use. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring a mask, water, and a snack. The outlined safety protocols must be followed. 

Tuesday, August 18, 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm (4 volunteers)
Stevens Glen, West Stockbridge

Help to eradicate invasive garlic mustard and protect this beautiful forest.  This work involves pulling the plant up by the root and disposing in a trash bag. BNRC will provide all tools and will sanitize them prior to use. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring a mask, water, and a snack. The outlined safety protocols must be followed. 

Thursday, August 20, 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm (4 volunteers)
Stevens Glen, West Stockbridge

Help to eradicate invasive garlic mustard and protect this beautiful forest.  This work involves pulling the plant up by the root and disposing in a trash bag. BNRC will provide all tools and will sanitize them prior to use. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring a mask, water, and a snack. The outlined safety protocols must be followed. 

Sunday, August 23, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm (4 volunteers) RSVP CAPACITY REACHED
Clam River, Sandisfield 

This workday will focus on removing old flagging along the Clam River Trail and clearing the corridor. We’ll hike approximately 3 miles. BNRC will provide all tools and will sanitize them prior to use. If you have loppers and/or pruners, please feel free to bring. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring a mask, water, and a snack. The outlined safety protocols must be followed. 

Thursday, September 3, 9:00 am – noon (4 volunteers) RSVP CAPACITY REACHED
Old Mill Trail, Hinsdale/Dalton 

Help us to continue to eradicate garlic mustard on this beautiful section along the East Branch of the Housatonic River. This work involves pulling the plant up by the root and disposing in a trash bag. BNRC will provide all tools and will sanitize them prior to use. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring a mask, water, and a snack. The outlined safety protocols must be followed. 

Saturday, September 19, 9:00 am – noon (4 volunteers) RSVP CAPACITY REACHED
The Boulders, Gulf Road Access, Pittsfield 

We’ll be working to remove old trail markers along the Green Trail. This will help to establish a clear trail blazing system. This work involves using a step or small ladder and tool to pry the old marker. BNRC will provide all tools and will sanitize them prior to use. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring a mask, water, and a snack. The outlined safety protocols must be followed. 

Friday, September 25, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm (4 volunteers) RSVP CAPACITY REACHED
Hoosac Range, North Adams 

This workday will focus on defining the corridor along the Hoosac Range Trail. BNRC will provide all tools and will sanitize them prior to use. If you have loppers and/or pruners, please feel free to bring. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring a mask, water, and a snack. The outlined safety protocols must be followed. 

19 Jun 2020
High Road, Hikes, Landkeeper Notes, Properties Permalink

BNRC OPENS NEW MAHANNA COBBLE TRAIL

June 19, 2020

Bousquet owners create access to improved route to Berkshire vista 

PITTSFIELD, Massachusetts 

On Friday, June 19, 2020 Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC) and Mill Town announced their partnership to create improved public access to Mahanna Cobble, a conservation reserve owned and operated by BNRC. Mahanna Cobble is free and open to the public, and rests atop the south-facing side of Bousquet Mountain in Pittsfield. 

Mill Town, which recently purchased the Bousquet ski resort, is focused on expanding outdoor recreation opportunities at Bousquet and around the Berkshires, including hiking activities. Together, BNRC and Mill Town have placed temporary signage at Bousquet to highlight an access route for hikers from the mountain’s base lodge and parking area, up a ski hill, to BNRC’s new Mahanna Cobble trail. 

“We are thrilled to have a strong partner in Mill Town as we open a gem of a trail, leading to a beautiful Berkshire vista. Partnerships like this are key to our success in conserving land around the Berkshires for wildlife and recreation,” says Jenny Hansell, President of BNRC. “The new Mahanna Cobble Trail embodies the core elements of BNRC’s work – our rich conservation history, efforts to open special places to all, and engaging in sustainable trail building for hikers now and long into the future.”  

This brand new route to Mahanna Cobble, funded by BNRC donors, was completed at the close of the 2019 trail construction season under the direction of Tyler Fogg, BNRC’s Trails Coordinator. Many BNRC volunteers and staff assisted in the design of this sustainably-built trail, with some portions constructed by OBP Trailworks LLC. 

Hikers will experience approximately 600 feet of elevation gain, made manageable through a series of climbing turns and hand-set stone steps. 

“BNRC is recognized as a county leader known for top-notch land stewardship and trail accessibility, and we’re thrilled to tap into their expertise as our on-site hiking trail partner,” notes Carrie Holland, Mill Town’s Managing Director.  “This collaboration will really help highlight the outdoor recreation opportunities found at Bousquet mountain for our community year-round — well beyond the obvious winter skiing and snowboarding season.  We are excited to welcome the public to Bousquet to enjoy the beautiful network of trails that extend out from our property.” 

Visitors should park to the far left of the lodge, and follow hiker signage to the “Drifter” beginner-level ski trail. Signage will indicate where to turn off Drifter, to access the Mahanna Cobble trail. The Cobble trail has clear directional signage to a vista atop the North Yokun Ridge. There, visitors will find a stone bench, dedicated to BNRC’s founding executive director George Wislocki, which provides a place to rest and enjoy the long view of uninterrupted forest to the south. 

Distance from the lodge to the start of the trailhead is 0.4 miles; the Mahanna Cobble trail itself is a 1-mile single-track hiking path with gradual elevation gain, and requires walking on stone steps. The entire out-and-back hike is 2.8 miles. The access route from the parking area to Drifter may be modified periodically over the summer and autumn in light of lodge renovation and base area improvements. Follow signage and check the Mahanna Cobble webpage at www.bnrc.org/trails-and-maps/mahanna-cobble/ for updates before heading out. 

BNRC is grateful to Mill Town for opening Bousquet Ski Area with to Berkshire hiking enthusiasts. Next, BNRC and Mill Town will collaborate on developing a permanent Mahanna Cobble trailhead, hopefully available in all four seasons of the year. 

Future hiking opportunities will feature Bousquet as a trailhead for the northern section of BNRC’s High Road Yokun Ridge hike, which will connect a variety of trails and conservation lands along the ridge and into town centers. More details will be shared as plans are finalized.  

Established in 1967, the Berkshire Natural Resources Council’s mission is to protect and preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Berkshires for public benefit and enjoyment. There are 56 BNRC conservation reserves spread across Berkshire County, free to the public, open to everyone for recreation. BNRC conserves land, builds and maintains trail systems, and offers year-round group outings—all through the support of donors. More about all BNRC properties and trails, and BNRC’s free Berkshire Trails app, can be found online at bnrc.org.  

Media Contacts for BNRC:  

Jenny Hansell, jhansell@bnrc.org, 413-499-0596.  

Mill Town’s mission is to expand and improve the quality and quantity of opportunities to live, work, and play in the Berkshires.  Founded in 2016, Mill Town is a Berkshire County-based impact investment firm.  Mill Town invests in businesses, real estate, and community development projects in the City of Pittsfield and across the region.  The company supports a wide variety of community development initiatives focused on outdoor recreation enhancement and supporting the region’s many cultural and non-profit assets.  For more information, please visit milltowncapital.com. 

Media Contacts for Mill Town: 

Carrie Holland, carrie@milltowncapital.com, 413-464-1115. 

 

24 Apr 2020
Landkeeper Notes Permalink

Vernal Pool or Puddle?

April 24, 2020

Blog post by Jenny Hansell, Berkshire Natural Resources Council President

How do you know if you have a vernal pool, or just a puddle? My backyard, just under an acre in the hilltowns, has been flooded almost nonstop since we moved in last November, though the previous owner assures me that it will dry up by the end of May.  Observing the soggy mess, I wondered how I might tell the difference between an ordinary puddle and a real vernal pool? I often encounter areas of standing water on my various walks and hikes, so I set out to learn how to tell the difference so I’d know what to look for, both in my yard and out on the trail.

MassWildlife’s Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program (NHESP) oversees the certification of vernal pools in Massachusetts, and their website is a wealth of information – it has maps, species lists, and explanations of the ecology of these important habitats.  I quickly learned that the key feature of vernal pools is that they are wet for long enough that amphibian species can reproduce and hatch out, but not long enough for fish to establish a population and eat the amphibians. Their ephemerality is exactly what makes them so valuable, especially to species that are threatened or of special concern, like the blue-spotted salamander .

The NHESP website outlines the process for identifying and certifying vernal pools – anyone can do it, though it is strongly recommended that you have permission from the landowner.

To be considered a real vernal pool, the area must meet a few criteria: it must have no obvious entrance and exit point for the water (so it’s just sitting there); and it must have the species that rely on vernal pools, such as certain frogs, salamanders and fairy shrimp – either the creature itself or its eggs can be evidence.

Once your pool is certified, certain protections kick in, under the Wetlands Protection Act. If you are thinking of certifying one on your property, make sure you are willing to abide by any resulting restrictions.

So far, my backyard wetland doesn’t show any signs of life, other than the cowbirds nesting in the brushpile.  But it’s early yet, and the nights haven’t warmed up past 40 degrees. I’ll be watching and waiting, just in case a wood frog or blue spotted salamander decides to take up residence in my neighborhood.

06 Apr 2020
Landkeeper Notes Permalink

American Woodcock and Springtime

April 6, 2020

Blog post by Jenny Hansell, Berkshire Natural Resources Council President

A couple of weeks ago, as I was helping my kid pack up her Simon’s Rock dorm room, I heard the unmistakable peeent of a woodcock. Each time I came out to the car with another armload of laundry, books, or art supplies, I’d hear it somewhere nearby. It was dusk, the hour that these chubby little shorebirds start calling to their mates. You can only hear them for a few weeks in March and early April as they arrive back in the Northeast from their wintering grounds in the Carolinas and Texas.

I used to take Ella and her sister out on chilly spring evenings when they were little, to hear the woodcocks call and try to spot them as the male would rise into the air in a dizzy little dance, trying to impress the female hiding somewhere nearby.  This time, she was too focused on her sadness at leaving campus, and the likelihood that she’d never return to finish out her final year, to care about a little bird.

But I found it comforting that nature was carrying on in spite of the chaos in the human world, and stood for a few minutes by the car, trying to give Ella a few last minutes to say goodbye to her room, while I tried to spot the little creature. Sure enough, it was standing not ten feet from me, illuminated by a lamppost, zzzeeeping, quite unafraid.

Woodcock populations declined dramatically in the 1800s due to hunting, but rebounded in the last century.  Grey and brown all over, they are about the size of a robin but very round and chubby, with very long straight bills. They are found in forest edges, wet meadows and old fields throughout our region – as long as that habitat is protected, we will continue to enjoy the springtime display of the woodcocks.

25 Mar 2020
Landkeeper Notes Permalink

COVID-19 BNRC Trails Update

March 25, 2020

Saturday, May 16, 2020

Berkshire Natural Resources Council’s trails are open. We recognize the importance of being outside for mental and physical well-being and our goal is to maintain this status for our community.

At trailheads you will find signage to encourage social distancing on trails. Our use policies during this time follow the guidelines of the CDC and State of Massachusetts. We suggest that hikers bring a mask, in case the conditions warrant using one. We also ask that you avoid parking on the road if a parking lot is full and to come back at another time.

Please leash your dog on BNRC trails at this time, since our four-legged friends don’t seem to understand social distancing. Additionally, we won’t be keeping trail maps stocked at trailheads and encourage hikers to take a picture of the kiosk map or use the BNRC Berkshire Trails App to help navigate for the time being.

BNRC has always trusted and relied on visitors to be responsible users of our reserves. With increased visitation and stress on trailheads, now more than ever, we ask that visitors please respect these requests — if we all work together, we can keep the trails open.

Thanks and best to you all.

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

Dear Friends,

This week, Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker issued a stay at home advisory, requiring all non-essential businesses to close. He also encouraged people to take walks in parks and nature to maintain physical and mental health. With those directives to guide us, BNRC will leave most of its trails open to the public for the time being, with the exception of Parsons Marsh Reserve and accessible trail, as it is impossible to maintain appropriate social distance on the narrow boardwalks.

Top BNRC trail information here:
https://www.bnrc.org/trails-and-maps/top-berkshire-trails/

All upcoming hikes and happenings are cancelled until further notice.

Public enjoyment of the natural beauty of the Berkshires is essential to the BNRC mission that you make possible every day. We urge you to follow these common-sense guidelines for all your outdoor visits:

  • Stay local and avoid high-traffic destinations.
  • If you are over 70 or medically vulnerable, stay home. If you are not feeling well, stay home.
  • Avoid crowds; conduct your outings solo or with other members of your household.
  • Be ready to step aside or move quickly through areas where people congregate such as parking lots and trailheads. If you arrive at a location and there are more than a handful of cars in the parking lot, please come back another time.
  • Please be safe: maintain at least a 6-foot distance between yourself and others. Be prepared to step aside, and let people know you are near if they can’t see you.

Please note that, for the most part, our staff and volunteers will not be out clearing fallen trees or addressing other trail needs, so you may find the trails in rougher shape than usual. Please always feel free to let us know of any maintenance or safety issues you discover on BNRC properties, by emailing FrontDesk@bnrc.org.

Medical and scientific authorities advise that it is crucial for public and individual health that we take extreme measures immediately—to “flatten the curve” and prevent the spread of COVID-19 we must do everything we possibly can to stay isolated from one another. We think this can be done without closing our trails at this time, but if we learn that crowds are forming and it is impossible to maintain good distance on any of our trails, we may close them in the coming days.

Together, we can do this—and emerge from this challenge stronger and more connected than before.

While working at home, the BNRC team will continue sharing videos, photos, nature bits, and inviting conversation on Facebook and Instagram. Check out the Landkeepers Blog, and LEARN about mammal tracks, stone walls, woody plants, and much more on the BNRC website. There are even wildflower coloring pages you can print!

In other words, please stay in touch. We will too.

Thank you for all of your support. We can’t wait to be on the trails again with you, for hikes and volunteer workdays, enjoying the Berkshire outdoors together—hopefully soon.

Sincerely,

Jenny

Jenny Hansell, President
Berkshire Natural Resources Council

P.S. Currently, the BNRC office is closed and staff are working from home. This means it will take longer than usual to process donations sent by mail. If you have recently sent a gift to BNRC by mail, it will be in a secure location, as always. Online gifts made at bnrc.org/contribute can be acknowledged more quickly. Thank you for everything you do to preserve the special beauty and character of the Berkshires.
Berkshire Natural Resources Council
23 Mar 2020
e-News, Landkeeper Notes Permalink

Finishing the Job: 

March 23, 2020

A small parcel on Steadman Pond in Monterey Completes an Important Conservation Project 

Nearly twelve years ago, then-governor Deval Patrick stood on the shore of Steadman Pond in Monterey to mark and celebrate the conservation of 800 acres of forest and meadow. On that day in 2008, most of the pond’s shoreline was conserved, but a key parcel was left unprotected, leaving the property vulnerable to the impacts of development.  

In February 2020, BNRC purchased the remaining seven acres—a small piece by comparison, but one that means the entire shoreline of the pond, all the way around, will stay pristine forever.  

“We couldn’t come up with the money to buy the whole thing back then,” said BNRC Director of Land Conservation Narain Schroeder, “so we left the owners, Barclay and Kerstin Hudson, with a building lot.” The Hudsons, whose family had owned the property for generations, never built a home there, but if they or a future owner had done so, the character of this beautiful wilderness spot would be changed forever. Lawn chemicals could seep into the pond, or a roving housecat could decimate the populations of birds and other wildlife.  

Steadman Pond is a perfect place for a picnic, fishing and canoeing, and some day, a peaceful trail walk around the perimeter. 

“I’ve been worried about that piece ever since we left it,” Schroeder says, “and when I saw that we might be able to qualify for Natural Resources Defense (NRD) funds. I called Barclay and made him an offer.” The NRD fund was set up to help protect properties in the Housatonic River watershed affected by PCBs, and this property is within that footprint. Hudson accepted the offer, the funding was secured, and twelve years after the original celebration, conservation of Steadman Pond is complete.  As with the surrounding +/- 800 acres, these seven acres will also be subject to a conservation restriction held by our partners, the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game. 

For his part, Barclay Hudson is glad to see the pond protected forever. In a recent email he noted that, “once again, BNRC has come through with a win-win project, and I am especially appreciative to you for your role in shepherding this project from beginning to end. I imagine our mother, too, is somewhere up there looking down and being very pleased with the way her purchase of Berkshire land back in the 1930s has now taken on a permanent conservation status—a peaceful oasis, as you described it, for all of us.” 

Over the years Steadman Pond has been enjoyed by many visitors; it’s a popular place to go for a swim, to fish, to hunt, to float, but there’s never been an improved trail.  With the acquisition of this parcel we can begin to dream of a trail that winds around the water’s edge. The backside of the pond hides a scenic jumble of rock under a dense hemlock forest. Imagine the temperature drop as you enter cool shade and then wind through mossy boulders back to where you started—or perhaps, continue west and connect to Bidwell House for a High Road adventure. Steadman Pond is a hidden gem, and with this seven-acre addition, it has been preserved, forever. 

 

 

 

05 Mar 2020
e-News Permalink

2020 March Enews

March 5, 2020
25 Feb 2020
Uncategorized Permalink

Conservation Associate Position

February 25, 2020

ConservationAssociateBNRC.pdf

Berkshire Natural Resources Council

Conservation Associate

Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC) is a non-profit land trust working to protect and preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Berkshires for public benefit and enjoyment. Starting in 1967, BNRC has protected over 20,000 acres of conservation land in Berkshire County, Massachusetts. BNRC maintains over 60 miles of public hiking trails throughout its properties. BNRC recently launched The High Road, a vision for connecting trails and conservation lands to communities throughout our region.

Position Overview:

BNRC seeks applicants for the position of Conservation Associate. This full-time, primarily office-based (80/20) position offers competitive salary and benefits. The Conservation Associate works within the Conservation Department and supports all conservation-related activities, with a primary focus on projects to advance The High Road, including acquisition of properties and easements, organizing and outreach, and planning.

The Conservation Associate will support the work of the Director of Land Conservation and Public Programs Director, preparing draft conservation restrictions, easements, maps and communication materials. The individual will help BNRC expand existing reserves and strengthen its conservation program as it pursues The High Road, an ambitious vision for connecting the Berkshires.

The ideal candidate will be a self-starting, motivated individual eager to launch a career in land conservation. The ideal candidate will have an understanding of real estate transactions, and the ability to pair interpersonal skills with conservation transactions, estate planning considerations and conservation biology. Background in legal studies, real estate, environmental studies and/or land use planning. Pay range is $40-45,000, depending on experience.

Responsibilities:

The Associate provides program support for the Land Conservation department:

  • Support and manage acquisition projects with landowners, prospective land donors, and partners
  • Navigate State and Federal conservation programs in the pursuit of resource-based acquisition projects
  • Prepare maps for possible conservation projects
  • Create draft conservation restrictions and trail easements
  • Prepare final maps and project materials for grant applications
  • Support and conduct engagement efforts with municipal, public, and other conservation entities in order to advance The High Road
  • Be an ambassador for BNRC with landowners, visitors, and stakeholders

Minimum qualifications include:

  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple, varied projects and efforts at one time
  • Basic knowledge of real estate transactions
  • Empathetic and observant listener
  • Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
  • Detail oriented
  • Moderate-level GIS proficiency
  • Microsoft Office proficiency
  • Conversant with natural resources issues
  • Sufficient physical fitness to walk land, on and off trail
  • Experience communicating with public officials
  • Familiarity with the Berkshire landscape preferred

Education and work experience requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree required; study in field of environmental sciences a plus
  • Preferred applicant has 3-5 years of relevant professional post-college experience

Interviews to be scheduled after March 2, 2020; the position is opened until filled. Contact Mackenzie Greer with questions. Send cover letter, résumé, and writing sample (1-3 pages, any subject) to:

mgreer@bnrc.org (preferred)

Berkshire Natural Resources Council

20 Bank Row

Pittsfield, MA 01201

(413) 499-0596

www.BNRC.org