Backcountry stewards gain a comprehensive understanding of the areas to which they are assigned. Their time is spent out in the Adirondack forest acquiring essential outdoor skills as well as valuable knowledge of the ecosystems, natural resources and recreational opportunities characteristic of the area. This position is primarily assigned to Siamese Ponds Wilderness, one of the larger units in the forest preserve at 115,000 acres. The primary authors of both the state level wilderness protection (first of its kind) and later the national Wilderness Act, had wilderness camps that are sandwiched by this unit and the adjacent Wilcox Lake Wild Forest.

The inspiration provided by these wild areas resulted in a globally unparalleled, legal recognition of the value of wilderness. The Siamese Ponds backcountry steward would also have the opportunity to work in other areas in the Adirondack Forest Preserve as part of a team of backcountry stewards. All stewards will be trained by NY Department of Environmental Conservation staff at the beginning of their internship and will then be supervised by the area Manager or his/her designee. There are also a variety of different training opportunities offered by the Adirondack Forest Rangers that may arise over the course of the internship.

Siamese Ponds Wilderness is not impacted by high use like other areas of the Adirondacks. This unit is characterized by long trails, many lakes and ponds, rivers and streams, mountains, waterfalls, and a remote trail-less area. This position requires the willingness and ability to travel by foot and work in remote, rugged terrain and inclement weather conditions. Blackflies and mosquitos are prevalent, especially in the spring. The steward will be required to work weekends and spend extended periods of time camping (up to five days each week) in the backcountry. The ability to use a map, compass and GPS unit and strong backpacking skills are essential.

Siamese Ponds Wilderness is managed out of the Warrensburg, NY DEC office and this position will be report to this office at least once each week. Some weeks the steward will work alone while others the steward will be paired up with other stewards to complete larger projects in Siamese or in nearby management units. Specific duties and responsibilities include the following:

• Inspect trails and other facilities to determine condition and maintenance requirements
• Trail clearing and brush removal using hand tools (saws, loppers, etc.)
• Trail tread, rock work and drainage improvements
• Building new trail, campsites or other infrastructure
• Installing trail signs and markers
• Campsite remediation and debris removal
• Bridge and other infrastructure maintenance
• Provide information and education to the public relating to the proper use and protection of the natural resource
• Promote Leave-No-Trace practices
• Provide assistance and advice to public regarding trails and other facilities
• Take inventory measurements, both quantitative and qualitative, of specific trail and camping area conditions, and patterns of use, to assist the Department in its resource management programs
• Collect information on user group size, use of specific trails, types of recreation (biking, boating, hiking, etc.) and use of camping areas
• Record GPS tracks and points, as well as photos
• Assist in backcountry emergencies including search and rescue, injuries and evacuation
• Maintain radio communication with DEC dispatch for safety and also emergency situations
• Maintain records including a handwritten daily journal, and document work on a map over the course of the season
• Other conservation-related duties as assigned

• Must be 18 years of age or older;
• Must be certified in Red Cross First Aid, CPR and Wilderness or Backcountry Advanced First Aid.
• Must have Associates Degree or 60 college credit hours in environmental education, natural resources management, biology, environmental studies, or a related field preferred or 6 months experience in environmental conservation work in a park or recreation setting;
• Must have a valid driver’s license;
• Must be physically capable of performing field work common to the assigned work area over rough terrain and during inclement weather;

Preferred Qualifications

• Have taken an outdoor education course or have outdoor education experience

SCA’s mission is to build the next generation of conservation leaders and inspire lifelong stewardship of the environment and communities by engaging young people in hands-on service to the land.