Resource Conservation in ActionAt — Resource Conservation District of Monterey County (RCDMC)
This opportunity includes learning from and working alongside RCDMC professional technical staff to implement conservation practices on farms and in community gardens throughout Monterey County. This work is based on principles of resource conservation that facilitate both a healthy environment and high quality, climate resilient agroecosystems focused on food production for human communities.
Most of the work will be in the field, typically at Community Garden sites in Seaside, which may involve these activities:
- dig trenches to establish berms and swales for water capture and infiltration
- apply sheet mulch to prevent weeds from growing
- apply compost
- situate and establish plants
- remove weeds
- irrigate plants during establishment
You will learn about local agricultural systems and how resource conservation factors in to issues related to ongoing food production and climate change resilience for communities. The opportunity will involve travel to multiple sites and other field tasks not described here.
Students have the option to complete all service hours at Community Garden sites in Seaside, Saturday morning hours (9am-noon). Other times can be scheduled as needed during the term. There is also an option to participate in other activities with the RCDMC Ag Team, including work at community garden sites in other Monterey County communities, and also on-farm visits for conservation assessments and implementation activities, with hours during the regular work week. These hours can be scheduled during the service term based on the student interest and availability to participate.
Requirements:
- Must be 18 or older
- Bilingual Desired
Students will receive as-needed training and learn while working alongside natural resource management professionals. Some reading and other screen-based learning opportunities may be offered to provide context and conceptual background related to the work being completed on the ground.
The supervisor (Soil Scientist) will be in regular contact (at least weekly) with the students. Students may also work with and be co-supervised by additional members of the RCDMC Agroecology Team (including the Agroecologist, Civil Engineer, Small Farms Specialist and Team Ops Manager). Proactive communication between the students and the team is expected to keep up with an evolving workplan schedule and also to accommodate students' needs related to their studies.
Students work outdoors in various weather/terrain conditions and must be mindful of limitations, the work expected can at times be strenuous. Proper work gear (clothing, footwear and other protection from the elements), good nutrition, etc. and active communication are expected regarding limitations that might put students at risk.
We work with soil, plants, water and in outdoor environments where exposure to the elements, insects etc. could result in adverse impacts. Students should be familiar with first aid and self-care.
Interested students please contact Laura Murphy at: laura.murphy@rcdmonterey.org
Please include:
- A description of why this opportunity is interesting to you
- A current resume
- Include the time blocks you have open to complete service hours regularly during the week, and indicate your preferred times as well as your ability to be flexible on a week-by-week basis