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ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES PROGRAM
NEWSLETTER
February 19, 2006
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In this issue:
**
UPCOMING ES EVENTS: Mellon Environment and Justice Fellow
Christopher Thoms delivers ES lunchtime lecture Wednesday
** ES PROGRAM NEWS: Professor Tietenberg is seeking a research assistant
** IN THE NEWS: ME DEP urges legislative ban on
fire retardant
** GRAD/RESEARCH PROGRAMS: Shoals Marine Lab, Virginia Tech
** JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS:
Oxfam, Dauphin Island Marine Lab, Maine
DEP, Islesboro Land Trust, Tanglewood 4H Camp
**
UPCOMING ES EVENTS:
"Community
Natural Resource Management - The Case of Community Forestry in Nepal"
Wednesday, February 21
12:00 in
the Fairchild Room in Dana. Join us at 11:30 for lunch with Christopher.
Dr.
Christopher Thoms
Nepalese
Community forestry is one of the worldÕs most ambitious and highly regarded
examples of community natural resource management (CNRM). CNRM approaches
devolve centralized, State management of natural resources to vest considerable
management authority to local people. Community forests are constituted by
government foresters who enroll local forest resource users into Community
Forest User Groups (CFUG). Once formed, Community Forest User Groups have
rights of access, use, and exclusion, but no rights of tenure to their
forestland. In practice if not intent, the governmentÕs user group formation
process, supported in part by foreign financial and technical assistance,
reflects and exacerbates existing divisions within communities, leading to or
at least maintaining elite domination of user groups. Outcomes are mixed in
that forest conservation is generally successful, while the programÕs potential
for improving local livelihoods is constrained by bureaucratic structures and
the wider institutional environment.
Dr.
Christopher Thoms completed his Ph.D. at the University of Michigan and its
School of Natural Resources and Environment where his dissertation research
examined the role of United Kingdom aid to Nepal in shaping community forestry
policy. This research was supported by the Fulbright-Hays Doctoral Dissertation
Research Abroad Program and the Social Science Research CouncilÕs International
Dissertation Research Fellowship. Dr. Thoms first become interested in Nepal
and its community forestry program as a Peace Corps Volunteer in 1997.
Dr. Thoms
is currently the Andrew W. Mellon Fellow in Environment and Justice at
Colby
** ES PROGRAM NEWS:
Professor
Tietenberg is seeking a research assistant to help with preparing an article
for publication and with updating some of the material in his textbook. Some
preference will be given to applicants who have taken EC 231 or its equivalent
elsewhere. Anyone who is interested should contact him at thtieten@colby.edu or
drop by his office at Diamond 374.
** IN THE NEWS:
DEP urges legislative ban on fire
retardant
By Kevin Miller
Friday,
February 16, 2007 - Bangor Daily News
AUGUSTA
— State environmental regulators began making a case Thursday for a
legislative ban on a common chemical flame retardant in televisions that recent
studies have linked to brain development problems in laboratory mice.Staff with
MaineÕs Center for Disease Control and the Department of Environmental
Protection told lawmakers that the chemical compound decaBDE, while an
effective flame retardant, is leaching potential toxins into the air and the
environment. The leading fire inhibitor used in television cases today, deca,
the name by which it is commonly known, is now found in humans, wildlife and
the environment throughout the globe, including in the Arctic.
Most
alarming, deca becomes airborne in dust as the chemical degrades over time.
Scientific studies have shown that deca, when inhaled or ingested, accumulates
in humansÕ fatty tissues and has been identified in breast milk. In a report
presented to a legislative committee Thursday, DEP staff recommended that the
Legislature ban the sale of televisions and other electronics equipment encased
in plastic made with deca. The ban would take effect in 2012 to allow the
industry time to adjust.
The
department is also recommending a ban, beginning next year, on mattresses and
other upholstered furniture containing deca. That ban is a proactive move,
however, because few of those products currently use deca. "The slow
release of decaBDE from these products has led to widespread environmental
contamination," reads the reportÕs conclusion. "Levels in human
tissue, human breast milk and the food we eat are cause for concern."
Maine
banned two related polybrominated fire retardants, known as "octa"
and "penta," in consumer products beginning last year. At the time,
the Legislature asked the DEP to report back on whether safer alternatives to
deca exist in order to extend the ban. The DEPÕs report states that safe
alternatives already exist that provide just as much fire protection as deca.
The fact that several major manufacturers, including the worldÕs leading
television maker, Sony, are moving away from deca shows the alternatives are
both technically feasible and affordable, the report said. Raymond Dawson, a
representative of the Louisiana-based flame retardant manufacturer Albemarle,
acknowledged that deca has environmental problems and said the industry is
working to address those issues.
Several
environmental and health groups have made banning deca one of their top
priorities for the current legislative session. They are also enlisting the
support of MaineÕs firefighting community.
** GRAD/RESEARCH PROGRAMS:
Shoals Marine Lab has over $100,000 available in
scholarship aid for anyone who applies for a credit course. We are dedicated to
making this life-changing experience affordable for our students. Financial aid
applications are included in acceptance packets.
Deadlines:
Apply for a course by March 1 2007 for best course and aid availability. For
Cornell students: Bartels Founders Scholarship deadline is February 15th 2007.
Questions? See Financing your Shoals Experience on our web site or email
LHJ1@cornell.edu
Graduate Position Available at
Virginia Tech
PhD program in Urban Affairs and Planning, School of
Public and International Affairs or MS and PhD programs in Forestry, College of
Natural Resources.
Topic:
Collaborative Decision-making in Natural Resource Management
Faculty in
the Program in Urban Affairs and Planning and in the College of Natural
Resources at Virginia Tech are seeking qualified students for MS or PhD
graduate programs. Opportunities exist to work with a multidisciplinary
research team on projects such as The Nature Conservancy's Fire Learning
Network ( <
http://tncfire.org/training_usfln.htm>
http://tncfire.org/training_usfln.htm).
We have multi-year funding to support a new candidate to join a faculty -
graduate student team pursuing this research. In addition to receiving
financial support, successful candidates can co-author journal articles with
project PI's, receive training in grant-writing, have the opportunity to teach
at the undergraduate level and attend conferences.
Criteria
for Selection: Background in social science research, including interviewing
and discourse analysis, as well as environment and natural resources are
strongly desired. Please contact:
Bruce
Goldstein ( < mailto:brugomail@yahoo.com>
brugomail@yahoo.com;
<
http://www.uap.vt.edu/uapFaculty/goldstein.html>
http://www.uap.vt.edu/uapFaculty/goldstein.html)
Study Wildlands in Montana
Combine interdisciplinary coursework, field learning,
small classes and community engagement.
We are
currently accepting applications for the University of Montana Wilderness and
Civilization Program; applications are due April 1, 2007 for the 2007-2008
academic year (early admissions applications are due Feb. 15). If you
have students interested in wilderness and wildlands studies please make them
aware of this opportunity. This interdisciplinary two-semester program is
designed to complement any major and offers students a minor in Wilderness
Studies. In this program, students combine classroom learning from across
campus with regular field trips throughout Montana to study ecology, politics,
history, culture, and conservation efforts. A brief description of the
program follows and a full description including course syllabi can be found at
www.forestry.umt.edu/wc. A FAQ sheet
about the program is also attached here. Out-of-state students may
participate through the National Student Exchange and other programs. If
students have further questions about the program please refer them to the
Wilderness Institute, wi@forestry.umt.edu, 243.5361, or Main Hall 303.
The
Wilderness and Civilization Program
offering
Students a Wilderness Studies Minor at The University of Montana
Applications for 2007- 2008 program are due April 1, 2007
(Feb. 15 for early admission)
For
information about The University of Montana visit www.umt.edu
Laurie
Ashley
Program
Associate
Wilderness
Institute
College of
Forestry and Conservation
The
University of Montana
Missoula,
MT 59812
ph:
406.243.6936
fax:
406.243.4845
laurie.ashley@umontana.edu
** JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS:
Oxfam America Seeks Student Workers for
2007-2008
The Oxfam America CHANGE Initiative is now accepting
student applications for the 2007-2008 academic year. Here is your chance to
become more involved with Oxfam! The CHANGE Initiative aims to develop capable
and confident young leaders who are active agents for positive social change.
Oxfam is looking for a diverse group of undergraduate students - rising
sophomores and juniors - committed to social justice issues. Students must have
an interest in global issues, including mining, Fair Trade
coffee,
hunger, and international trade, and be willing to carry out campaigns on their
campuses and in their communities. Applications are due April 1, 2007.
Apply
online at www.oxfamamerica.org/change.
If you have any questions, please call 800-77-OXFAM ext. 2464 or email
CHANGE@oxfamamerica.org.
Teton Science Schools
Environmental Education Interns
March 31, 2007
The Teton
Science Schools of Jackson Hole, Wyoming is seeking four motivated interns who
want to develop and enhance their teaching skills while working with children
in outdoor settings. Interns have the opportunity to work with student day
programs (grades 1-6) or residential student programs (grade 4-12). Interns
work with experienced lead instructors to teach lessons on geology, ecology,
biology and watersheds and help with additional responsibilities as needed.
This is a mentored learning experience. Interns will work closely with
experienced environmental educators and Teton Science Schools faculty
throughout the internship.
Qualifications:
Successful
applicants will be at least 21 years of age with a background and interest in
environmental science, education, and working with children. Current first aid
and CPR certification and a clean driving record are required. Because of the
educational nature of this internship, preference will be given to applicants
who intended to integrate this experience into their academic plan.
Duration:
June 4 - August 17, 2007
Start Date:
June 4, 2007
Compensation: Interns receive work-study stipend of $800 plus
room and board. Graduate credits through Utah State University may also be
pursued with the addition of assigned academic course work.
Application
Procedure: Send a cover letter, resume, academic plan and two letters of
reference to:
John
Haskin, PhD
Director of
Education
Teton
Science Schools
PO Box 68
1 Ditch
Creek Rd.
Kelly, WY
83011
john.haskin@tetonscience.org
307-733-4765 (x3104)
Tanglewood 4H Camp and Learning Center
Discovery Trip Leaders
Lincolnville, ME
As a Trip
Leader, you will have a great opportunity to improve your leadership skills by
attending a two week training which includes both the trip-based and in-camp
aspects of this program. You will also learn about MaineÕs outdoors, explore
the natural world, make new friends, have fun and make a difference in the
lives of many young people through positive interactions.
Responsibilities:
¥Co-lead a
variety of 6-day/5-night outdoor trips for youth ages 10-17 using Leave No
Trace principles
¥Implement
5-day, 2 hour long outdoor living focus curriculum for residential campers when
not leading a trip
¥Plan
lessons, itineraries, schedules, and menus for each trip
¥Supervise
participants to provide essential safety, preparation, and well-being for the
group, as well as deal with camper issues such as homesickness and inexperience
¥Facilitate
group conflicts and strive to encourage problem solving and decision making
¥Role model
healthy, positive energy and communication
¥Teach
environmental education and general ecology, as well as a variety of skills
such as low-impact camping, canoeing, backpacking, map and compass,
communication, and basic first aid
¥Maintain
equipment, program spaces, Packout Room, and prepare for food ordering
¥Provide
logistical support for other trips (when not leading), e.g. emergency contact,
food preparation, van driving, food drops and trip planning
¥Support
and/or assist in some camp programs and duties when not on trip
¥Evaluate
program with campers, Program Coordinator and Camp Directors.
¥Participate in community chores, meal service, and
miscellaneous maintenance duties as required
Qualifications:
¥Alert,
flexible, energetic, creative, enthusiastic team player; appreciate the natural
world
¥Two years
related outdoors experience and related experiences working with youth
¥Wilderness
First Aid or equivalent advanced first aid and Basic Life Support
¥Lifeguard
certification
¥Ability to
lead groups outdoors over various terrain with gear
¥Canoeing
skills
¥Able to
follow a demanding schedule and know own limits
Preferred:
Wilderness First Responder, driverÕs license, Small Craft Water Safety
Certification , 21+ years of age
Duration:
June 13- August 18, 2007
Start Date:
June 13, 2007
Compensation: $2000/ summer, base salary; room and board
Application
Procedure: Please visit our website for online application: www.tanglewood4h.org or call Jessica Decke
(207-789-5802) for an application.
Marine Ecology Internships at the
Dauphin Island Sea Lab
Position description / availability - We are seeking
applicants to help conduct research on several projects currently being
conducted in various benthic communities. These projects focus on benthic
community structures, the effects of nutrient enrichment, and oyster growth and
restoration.
Research
will be based at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab in the Mobile Bay area of the
Northern Gulf Coast. The interns will work closely with Professor Ken Heck, Research
Associate Dottie Byron, and graduate students.
We are
looking for interns for both spring and fall seasons. The duration of the
internship is about 3 months. The internship will have a flexible start date
with summer interns starting on or about May 14, 2007 continuing through August
10, 2007. Fall interns will start on
August 17,
2007 and continue through November 16, 2007. You may apply for both seasons if
you wish.
Duties and
responsibilities - This internship will be field intensive at times. Field
research will include monthly seagrass and faunal sampling at Robinson Island
in Orange Beach, Alabama and monthly oyster reef sampling near Dauphin Island
(for more information regarding current projects, please check the Marine
Ecology Lab website at http://marineecologylab.disl.org). Applicants should
have their own snorkel gear (both seasons) and wet suit (fall season only).
Interns will be involved in sample processing and will receive training in
sample identification and analytical instrumentation. There will also be
numerous opportunities to learn other ecological field sampling techniques. In
addition, there will be seminars from visiting scientists and discussion groups
on current topics in marine science.
We are
seeking people who are enthusiastic about marine ecology and may be considering
marine science as an occupation. This job requires long days of physically
demanding field work and long hours sorting samples in the lab. Experience
(although not necessary), as well as enthusiasm about marine research, are
important aspects of a rewarding internship. This is a great opportunity for
hands-on training in the field and laboratory.
Stipend - A
weekly stipend of $150 and a room and board allowance ($150/week) will be
provided.
Eligibility
- Undergraduate juniors and seniors enrolled in marine programs or with marine
experience are preferred. Graduating seniors are also welcome to apply. This
internship is available only to U.S. and Canadian citizens.
Application
Instructions - The application is now a fillable pdf form, and can be accessed
at http://marineecologylab.disl.org/.
You must have Acrobat Reader installed to view the application. If you do not
have Acrobat Reader, you can visit http://www.adobe.com
to download a FREE copy. Although not required, we would prefer if you emailed
your application using the "Submit by Email" link on the last page of
the application. Upon selecting the email form option, on-screen instructions
will appear. You may also print a copy of your application and submit it via
fax to (251) 861-7540 Attn: Dottie Byron or via mail to
Dottie
Byron
Marine
Ecology Lab Intern Program
Dauphin
Island Sea Lab
101
Bienville Blvd.
Dauphin
Island, AL 36528
If at any
time during the application process, you have questions or problems with the
fillable pdf form, you may contact Dottie Byron via email at dbyron@disl.org or
via
phone (251)
861-2179.
Application
Deadline is: March 30, 2007
We will
notify interns by: April 6, 2007
Maine DEP Air Bureau has urgent need for a recent
college graduate who could serve 5-6 months in an AmeriCorp Environmental
Educator Volunteer position doing a school energy/greenhouse gas emission survey
for k-12 schools in the state. This position entails contacting school
officials to inquire about their energy use, calculating their ghg emissions
(using our software), documenting what the school officials see as energy
efficiency needs/opportunities in their schools and to educate them about
the future RGGI public benefits program that could help fund such projects. A
final project report prepared at the end of the 5 month project will provide
information that the state will use to identify opportunities for greenhouse
gas reduction projects in school facilities.
The
volunteer will also be assisting in education outreach projects with DEP and
Maine Energy Education Program staff - to a few (possibly 8) schools - working
with high school students there to do a guide them in conducting comprehensive
school energy use survey and help them identify potential energy efficiency
opportunities.
The
position is based in Augusta - works 40 hours/week for 5-6 months. The
AmeriCorp Environmental Educator position with the DEP Air Bureau is looking
for someone to begin immediately and last through August. The stipend offered
by AmeriCorp is about $210 per week and also has an educational award at the
end of service - payable to college loans or other college programs.
For more
information, contact Deb Avalone-King at Maine DEP phone 207.287-7028 or by
email at debbie.j.avalone-king@maine.gov .
To apply
for the position contact Jo Hersom of the Maine Conservation Corp at
207.287-4398
Summer Land Trust Position Available
Islesboro Islands Trust, a successful, 22 year-old land
trust in midcoast Maine, is seeking a well-rounded individual to help with our
programs during the summer of 2007. This full time, temporary position will
involve environmental education work approximately 2-3 days per week, with the
remainder of the week devoted to preserve stewardship and other
responsibilities.
IIT offers
a nature day camp on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for children ages 3 to 11, as well
as two three-day sea kayaking and camping trips for kids ages 12 to 15. The
successful applicant will work with a staff member to organize and teach our
nature day camp programs, and will also be a co-leader on both sea kayaking
trips. Primary job responsibilities for this portion of the position include
helping with the development of day camp programs, leading games and
activities, teaching sea kayaking to kids, leading overnight camping trips,
maintaining a safe and respectful camp environment, and some logistical work as
needed. In addition to the environmental education work, the successful
applicant will assist with a wide variety of stewardship tasks, with a primary
focus on volunteer training and management. Additional areas of focus may
include ecological inventory, GPS/GIS mapping, preserve usage monitoring,
digital photography, trail maintenance, and invasive species control. This part
of the position will require flexibility, initiative, and an interest in
working on a wide variety of stewardship programs.
We seek a
responsible individual who is experienced working with children and able to
make a commitment for the entire season. Paddling and camping experience,
excellent leadership skills, and a working knowledge of the Maine outdoors are
very important. Lifeguard and/or Maine Trip Leader certification would be a big
plus, as would experience with any of the stewardship tasks listed above. This
position is located on Islesboro, an island community in Penobscot Bay
separated from the mainland by a 20-minute ferry ride. This position will begin
on June 18th and continue through August 22nd when day camp programs end. IIT
offers a competitive stipend, and free on-island housing is available. To
apply, please send a resume and cover letter to Islesboro Islands Trust at P.O.
Box 182, Islesboro, ME 04848 or iitaaron@gmail.com. This position is open until
filled
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