ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES NEWSLETTER
March 20, 2006


In this issue:
** Upcoming ES Events:
  ES Colloquium on Tuesday:  "Application of GIS in Target Marketing - a Case Study"
** ES Program news:
Environmental Justice Fellow hired 
** Campus Sustainability:
   SSW Alumni Center given LEED certification!!
** Beyond Colby
:   Environmental Health Lobby Day next Monday
** Field Study Course:
University of California, Santa Barbara's Wildlands Studies Program
** Jobs and Internships:
Stream survey tech, Geologic Mapping on the Maine Coast, Environmental Education in NC, and more
 ==================================================================================================
** Upcoming ES Events:

ES Colloquium:   "Application of GIS in Target Marketing - a Case Study"
Tiho Andonov 
Analyst, Corporate Marketing, LL Bean
Tuesday, March 21
7:00 pm in Olin 1
Join us at 6:00 for dinner in the Bullock Room in Dana!
ES 402 credit
Come hear from Professor Andonova's husband!

** ES Program news:
Environmental Justice Fellow hired
Dr. Christopher Thoms has accepted a one-year Environmental Justice fellowship, to begin this fall. He will work with ES program faculty to develop and incorporate a series of environmental justice teaching modules into existing courses. He will also teach an Environmental Justice Course

Dr. Thoms is currently a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Environmental Studies Program at Knox College.

** Campus Sustainability:
 
Alumni Center given LEED certification!
Greening in the Schair-Swenson-Watson Alumni Center
(Written by the Communications staff)
The Schair-Swenson-Watson Alumni Center received silver-level LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certification from from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) in March 2006.
LEED Program
LEED is a trademarked acronym representing an approved system for designing, constructing, operating, and certifying environmentally responsible buildings. Silver-level certification is a step higher than basic LEED certification, reflecting enhanced environmental initiatives and systems in the building. The  rating system was developed by the USGBC to:

Schair-Swenson-Watson Alumni Center Initiatives
Among a wide range of initiatives that earn points toward the Schair-Swenson-Watson Alumni Center’s LEED certification are:

  1. Geothermal heating and cooling of entire building
  2. Use of electricity generated on campus through co-generation at the steam plant
  3. Clapboards fabricated from mill ends
  4. Wallboard made of recycled materials (95% of gypsum comes from industrial smokestacks; 100% of facing and backing from recycled newsprint)
  5. Sprayed foam insulation for high energy efficiency
  6. Use of green cleaning products for building maintenance
  7. Elevator’s hydraulic system uses vegetable oil instead of petroleum products
  8. Special exterior light fixtures reduce light pollution
  9. Toilet-stall partitions made using 30% post-industrial recycled plastic
  10. Carpets made using 32% post-industrial recycled material

** Beyond Colby
Raise Your Voice!Environmental Health Lobby Day
Monday, March 27th, 2006
Maine State House
Please join us on March 27th to protect Maine families from unnecessary, dangerous chemicals.  Toxic chemicals are especially dangerous to our children when they break down slowly and build up in our food chain.  Many are so pervasive that we come into contact with them daily.  Some of these chemicals, such as lead, mercury, pesticides and solvents, are known to cause learning disabilities and cancer in children.  The unfortunate truth is that these persistent toxic chemicals are in a wide variety of household products, the food we eat, the water we drink and the air we breathe.
The good news is that NRCM is working to phase out these unnecessary, dangerous chemicals and replace them with safer alternatives, and we need you to make the difference!

Each year, your Maine legislators vote on bills concerning the phase out and replacement of toxic chemicals in our homes, schools, and workplaces. Many times, contacts from constituents like you are the determining factor when it comes to whether your legislator will support or oppose a bill to protect our children and families from unnecessary, dangerous chemicals. 
PLEASE JOIN US to make your voice heard!
Professor Gail Carlson will be attending. Contact her if you would like to carpool. <gcarlson@colby.edu>
Monday, March 27th
8:00 AM to 3:30 PM
Maine State House

** Field Study:
Wildlands Studies Program
University of California, Santa Barbara's Wildlands Studies Program offers a series of environmental and cultural ecology field studies that we invite you to join.  This year you can choose among twenty wildlife, wildland and cultural ecology field studies searching for solutions to environmental and cultural challenges.  Each program grants 5-15 upperdivision units credit.  Please note that all programs are open and accepting applications now.  Field studies take place in wildland locations throughout the Montana Rockies, California, Washington, Canyonland Country, Alaska, Hawai'i, Belize, Fiji, Costa Rica, Thailand, Himalaya, New Zealand, China and Mexico.
 
All of our programs, now available for your consideration are described at our website:
www.wildlandsstudies.com (please click on or type in this address on your browser); or a catalog can be sent to you in the mail.  Our email address is wildlands@sonic.net.  If you have questions about any of our university programs, please feel free to get back in touch with us.

** Jobs and Internships:
NSF Program Announcement: Research Experiences for Undergraduates
 Precision Digital Geologic Mapping on the Maine Coast
Using sea-kayaks, GPS, Total Stations, GIS and traditional field methods,
May 27-July 22, 2006
 
An 8-week research internship position in precision digital outcrop surface mapping,
structural analysis and geologic interpretation for junior-level undergraduates.
 
Program description
      This summer NSF-REU program at the University of Southern Maine is an opportunity for nine undergraduate students in geoscience-related majors to learn cutting-edge precision digital survey techniques as applied to detailed geologic outcrop mapping in coastal Maine while working on a research project for presentation at a professional meeting. This program will introduce students to the regional deformation associated with Norumbega strike-slip shearing in the Northern Appalachians, sea kayaking as a way to access island exposures, traditional field techniques and digital survey instrumentation for precision mapping of geologic structures.  Digital survey data will be compiled in a geographic information system (GIS) that will provide a basis for interpretation, structural analysis and tectonic modeling.  Results will be reported in student abstracts and poster presentations at the Northeast Section Geological Society of America (NEGSA) meeting (spring 2007). 
      Students in the program will receive a stipend of $2400, travel reimbursement and support to attend the NEGSA meeting at which they will present their work.  Upon completion of the program students will receive 6 credits for their field experience as USM course - GEY360 - Field Mapping in the Island Environment: Data Collection to GIS.  When not camping in the field, dormitory accommodations will be provided at the University of Southern Maine’s Gorham Campus. 
 
Eligibility
     This program is designed for undergraduate students who have completed their junior year in an appropriate geoscience major, geography major with a geology minor, or other applicable degree program.  Background coursework in geology and/or geography is essential.  Prior field experience and established computer skills are highly recommended. 
 
Application Procedure
Submit: 1) the completed application form; 2) a copy of your college transcript, and; 3) a letter of recommendation from your faculty mentor to: Dr. Mark Swanson, Department of Geosciences, University of Southern Maine, Gorham, ME 04038.  For more info email mswanson@usm.maine.edu or call 207-780-5024. 
 
Deadline
Completed applications for these positions must be in hand by Monday, March 27, 2006.  Applicants will be notified via e-mail by Monday, April 3, 2006. 


The UNC Charlotte Office of Waste Reduction & Recycling
Environmental Educator/Outreach & Volunteer Coordinator
The majority of the E/O Coordinator’s time will be spent providing educational and promotional information about the OWR&R, the Conservation Awareness Team (CAT) and Environmental Sustainability initiatives to the various facets of the campus community. This includes, but is not limited to: creating brochures and fact sheets; creating and editing the OWR&R’s newsletter; overseeing the continued development of the web page; organizing education sessions and presenting to classes and offices on various aspects of environmental sustainability, energy and water conservation, and waste reduction and recycling topics; organizing special events such as Earth Day; staffing tables at various campus and community events; writing press releases and articles for local news outlets or other departments’ publications; overseeing the development of a yearly Recycling Monitor workshop; and assisting with the set up and coordination of indoor recycling sites.
The E/O Coordinator will also oversee student volunteers and interns. Create educational materials directed specifically towards UNC Charlotte students. Work with the staff of Housing and Residence Life (H&RL) to develop methods of distribution. Work with H&RL staff to educate students about recycling opportunities during move-in and move-out. Prepare and present to each Residence Hall programs on recycling and conservation procedures during the beginning of the year. Work with RC’s and RA’s to improve environmental education throughout Residence Life.
Requirements:
Four-year degree
·         Experience working or volunteering for an environmental or recycling program.
·         Experience working with volunteers.
·         Experience working or volunteering with environmental education programs.
Proficient  in the use of computer software including: Microsoft Publisher, PowerPoint, Word, Photoshop, desktop publishing programs (Quark XPress, Adobe PageMaker), email programs, Internet usage.
Knowledge of local and state environmental policies and issues.
Ability to speak and present to large groups of people.
Ability to communicate clearly both in writing and verbally.
Good interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently.
Ability to carry up to 30 pounds.
Level 63 pay range:  Minimum: $25,036     Midpoint: $31,242             Maximum:  $37,447
To apply go to UNC Charlotte’s Human Resources webpage:
jobs.uncc.edu
The job will be posted on the webpage on Saturday, March 18, 2006
Position closes Saturday, April 14, 2006
For more information about the OWR&R go to our website http://facilities.uncc.edu/recycling

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

Stream Survey Technician
Fisheries Management Region B has an opening for a stream survey technician for the period of May\June through August\September 2006, based at the Sidney Regional Headquarters.  The individual selected for the position will assist in developing a volunteer program for short –reach stream surveys throughout the mid-coastal area of Maine.  S/He will also complete chemical and biological stream survey work individually and with regional biologists.
Typical Job duties:
-          Train volunteers in Maine IFW\DEP stream survey protocols.
-          Assist volunteer stream surveyors to ensure consistency and quality of data.
-          Undertake individual stream survey efforts.
-          Input data into regional database.
-          Maintain equipment.
-          Coordinate efforts of a diverse volunteer corps.
-          Assist with other fisheries management data collection as required.
Required Knowledge and abilities:
-          Ability to clearly present stream survey training to audiences with a variety of backgrounds.
-          Ability to interact with variety of individuals with a positive outlook.
-          Knowledge of\familiarity with Microsoft Office suite of software, familiarity with GIS a plus.
-          Experience with stream survey techniques.
-          Ability to use and calibrate stream survey devices and meters, familiarity with GPS.
-          Ability to safely use backpack mounted electro-fishing gear.
-          A valid driver’s license
-          A sense of humor.
Other considerations relative to the position:
-          Work involves a non-standard workweek.  Work will include duty hours on Saturdays and Sundays and potentially some weekday evenings.   Off duty days will vary.
-          Work will be performed in both office (25%) and field (75%) situations.  Fieldwork will require carrying moderate loads (up to 40 pounds) for sometimes significant distances in rough terrain.  Nuisance insects\animals\humans may be encountered.  Roadway traffic at times may be a safety consideration.
Application:
Please submit a letter of interest, Resume or Statement of Qualifications and Three References to: 
Robert.vanriper@maine.gov                 
Robert Van-Riper
Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
270 Lyons Road
Sidney, Maine 04330
Electronic submissions are preferred.  Responses close at 5 PM April 3, 2006.

DIRECTOR FOR SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Emory University is seeking exceptional candidates for the position of Director of Sustainability Initiatives. Reporting jointly to the Offices of the Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs (Provost), the Director will have direct responsibility for overseeing all University initiatives related to sustainability.

The Director will be expected to function as a visionary leader and organizational strategist to help Emory become a national model for sustainability in higher education. The Director will also create the strategy to integrate sustainability into both the operational and academic functions of the University, network with and facilitate internal and external resources to accomplish that goal, and evaluate the needs of the University community. Further, this position will be responsible for developing programs and new initiatives to enhance Emory’s stature and create detailed implementation plans for those initiatives. The Director will need to create and implement communication strategies to promote broad awareness of initiatives and develop a University-wide process and organizational structure to support sustainability inquiry, change, and assessment. Ideally, the selected candidate will build effective partnerships and relationships with surrounding communities and key Atlanta institutions and establish effective linkages with units across campus that may have sustainability initiatives in process or as part of their overall strategy. The Director will also coordinate, support, and expand opportunities for faculty, staff, students and administrators to learn about sustainability issues throughout the academic and operational dimensions of University life.

The ideal candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree, with an advanced degree in an appropriate field (e.g., MA, MS, MD, PhD, JD) preferred. Additionally, competitive applicants should have five to ten years of progressive experience and leadership in the area of sustainability, resource management and/or related initiatives. Specific experience in the areas of sustainability policies, sustainable food systems, healthy living programs, conservation, energy, waste and/or water management is preferred. Experience within a University setting is preferred.

With an expected start date of September 1, 2006, applicants should submit a current resume and cover letter (outlining relevant experience) to the Office of the Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration (ATTN: David Hanson), Emory University, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Suite 409, Atlanta, GA 30322.

A more detailed job specification may be found at www.finadmin.emory.edu (under the “Emory Policies” link). Screening will begin immediately and will continue until an appointment is made. All communications will be treated confidentially. Emory University is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

Position:
Naturalist/Campcraft Teacher
Organization:
Medomak Retreat Center
Contact:
David Brunner
Email:
family@medomakcamp.com
Description:
We are looking for an individual who is interested in working in a summer camp setting, showing adults and their children the beauty of the natural landscape. Job would primarily be leading interpretive hikes, pointing out and teaching the local flora and fauna on our camp. Other responsibilities would include teaching camp craft activities (firebuilding, shelter building, orienteering, knots, etc...)and being involved with other camp programs.
Location:
Washington, ME
Duration:
June 18-August 20, 2006
Start Date:
June 18, 2005
Hours:
daily
Compensation:
$200-250/week plus room and board
Application Procedure:
Contact 301-854-9100 or family@medomakcamp.com for an application