Stream & Watershed Management in Columbia

Internship description

The purpose of this internship is to introduce students to the impacts of habitat fragmentation on aquatic ecosystems and the challenges faced by local and state government agencies managing transportation infrastructure. This internship will be conducted by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) in collaboration with other agencies and partners. The intern will be mentored by an MDC Scientist in the Stream and Watershed Unit and will engage in activities focused on aquatic connectivity and watershed management, including:

• Using spatial data tools such as ArcGIS Pro (ArcPro) and other online mapping and data platforms

• Conducting field-based physical measurements of road stream crossings and associated stream habitats

• Communicating with local and state partners who own and manage road stream crossings

• Assessing and summarizing collected data to support science-based management decisions.

The intern will also have opportunities to participate in research and management activities conducted by other MDC Scientists and Fisheries Biologists based at the Central Regional Office and Conservation Research Center. These activities may include sport fish management as well as research and monitoring related to water quality, nongame fish, mussels, and/or crayfish.

Near the conclusion of the internship, the intern will collaborate with their mentor to:

• Develop and deliver a brief presentation during a brown bag lunch session at the MDC Central Regional Office

• Prepare a short written report summarizing their internship experience and key learning outcomes

This internship is ideal for students interested in aquatic ecology, fisheries, watershed management, conservation planning, or applied environmental science.

Duties

• Identify road stream crossings in priority areas, including MDC Tiered Geographies identified in the Comprehensive Conservation Strategy.
• Implement the National Aquatic Connectivity Collaborative (NACC) protocol to inventory road stream crossings and contribute data to the National Aquatic Barrier Inventory & Prioritization Tool.
• Work with MDC staff and partners to summarize and prioritize collected data for future aquatic organism passage (AOP) barrier removal efforts.
• Participate in opportunities to work with staff across MDC regions and branches to gain a broader understanding of MDC programs and support professional networking.
• Shadow and assist with a variety of aquatic research and resource management initiatives coordinated by the mentor.

Qualifications

• At the undergraduate level, the emphasis is on recruitment, career exploration, and introducing top performing students to career paths in fisheries and aquatic systems research and management.
• Students are eligible for the program when they meet the following criteria:
  • Undergraduate student at an accredited university/college in good standing. Students who will be graduating before the internship begins are not eligible.
  • Cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher is desirable (on a 4.0 scale).
  • Preference will be given to students who have completed at least 45 credit hours.
  • Pursuing a degree in fisheries and wildlife, biology, environmental science, or related natural resources or science.

Special Ability Requirements

• Develop and sustain cooperative working relationships.
• Work outside in adverse weather conditions and perform tasks requiring strenuous physical activity.
• Remain in a stationary position up to 50% of the time.
• Move about grounds, both inside and outside of buildings.
• Constantly operate a computer and other office productivity machinery.
• Demonstrate regular and predictable attendance.
• Obtain a current, valid driver license by the date of employment.
• Work Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays when needed.
• Keep an accurate record of supplies, services, and time reports.