Background: The Obtawaing Biosphere Region (OBR) is a UNESCO recognized geographic area of globally significant ecological and cultural landscapes. Centrally located in Northern Michigan within the North American Laurentian Great Lakes Basin, it lies at the convergence of two peninsulas and three Great Lakes highlighting the importance of water-land environmental interfaces. Our mission is to support a partner network that shares ideas and implements solutions to foster relationships and to advance environmental, cultural, and socio-economic sustainability and well-being in the heart of the Great Lakes Region.

Scope and Purpose of Work: The OBR is working toward the development of region-wide climate vulnerability assessment and action strategies, this internship will work to build the foundation of this work by: gathering and synthesizing existing models, research, tools and best management practices that can be applied at the local and regional level; connecting with OBR leaders and partnership group to share and explore implementation opportunities; working with the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve intern and national US Biosphere Network in learning and sharing best practices; conducting, at the landscape level, analysis on how forests contribute to carbon reduction goals, as well as the potential to serve as a revenue source for the region.

Position Duties and Responsibilities:

Develop climate vulnerability assessment at the local/regional level

• Gather and assess relevant, baseline information and tools
• Create a sharable database of existing reports, toolkits and data
• Identify data gaps for the region

Conduct landscape-wide forest analysis focused on carbon sequestration and climate resilience that include:

• Current status of forests and areas providing climate resilience services in need of protection
• Recommendations for action items and best management practices for partners and private landowners.
• Review and analysis of economic implications of carbon accrual in the region

Strengthen local, regional, national, and international network relationships:

• Participate in the USBN youth network by serving as a youth liaison to the USBN from Obtawaing BR
• Share best practices and strategies at multiple scales
• Develop climate literacy programming and resources related to Northern Michigan climate impacts, including: identify connections for climate literacy programming across OBR partner programs; develop and build out a climate literacy focused education toolkit and associated activities; develop and finalize messaging and education program templates to use across OBR programs and engagement opportunities

Position Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, ecology or a related field
• Capacity to understand complex concepts and translate scientific information into practical guidance including planning documents and outreach materials
• Experience in building and maintaining collaborative relationships with co-workers, partner organizations, public agencies, community groups and the general public
• Excellent verbal and written skills
• Evidence of strong relationship skills, including assertiveness, tact and the ability to work with a wide variety of stakeholders
• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize workload
• Proficiency using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software and systems including ESRI desktop (ArcMap, ArcPro) and ArcGIS Online
• A valid driver’s license is needed and use of a personal vehicle may be required

Benefits: This position is available for 600 hours at the rate of $22/hour to be completed during 2023. Potential for summer housing and/or periodic residency/office space at the UofM Biological Station.

HOW TO APPLY
To Apply: Contact Samantha Nellis (samantha@huronpines.org) and Jon Allan (allanj@jonallangroup.com) for all inquiries.