Air & Water Monitor

Introduction

The Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, located just six miles north of Atlantic City, New Jersey, protects over 48,000 acres of diverse coastal habitats. The refuge primarily consists of wetlands (82%), but also features woodlands, grasslands, dunes, and beaches. It is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering 15 miles of scenic trails, boat launches, a Visitor Information Center, and the popular 8-mile Wildlife Drive auto tour.

The Refuge’s location in one of the Atlantic Flyway’s most active flight paths makes it a critical stopover for countless bird species, and one of the region's premier birding destinations. Visitors can engage in a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, birdwatching, fishing, hunting, photography, and more. This blend of stunning natural landscapes and opportunities for exploration makes it a must-visit for nature lovers. For more information about the refuge, please visit: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/edwin-b-forsythe.

Air & Water Monitor

Interested in being a part of the Edwin B Forsythe refuge? Join our volunteer team and learn about the various tasks that go on behind the scenes to help manage the refuge!

Description: The Edwin B. Forsythe NWR is a designated Class I Air Quality Area under the United States Environmental Protection Agency. This important position assists the refuge in collecting air and water samples that identify changes and trends over time.

Duties and responsibilities:

·      Coordinate schedule with the Air & Water Quality team.

·      Review and follow standardized sampling guidelines to collect weekly air and water samples from designated locations on the refuge.

·      Inspect, clean, and perform basic maintenance of the equipment.

·      Maintain inventory of lab supplies.

·      Complete field report forms, label samples, and prepare shipment of samples to the lab.

·      Assist with various scientific and biological data collections, field surveys, data entry, habitat restoration projects, and other biological duties as approved by supervisor.

Knowledge & Skills Required:

·      Basic math and writing skills required for data calculation and documentation.

·      Detail oriented and ability to follow written procedures to ensure accurate and consistent data collection.

·      Government Vehicle Operation: Must have a valid driver’s license and complete an Authorization for Operation of Government Motor Vehicle form (3-2267) and complete the Defensive Driving course.

·      Ability to interact politely with the public to answer questions. Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions and terrain.

Hours and Time Commitment: Availability: Tuesdays 9:30 am, 2-3 hours, weekly or bi-weekly.

Training and Requirements: Refuge staff and/or experienced volunteers will provide training on duties and position safety requirements. Volunteers are required to:

·    Complete a Volunteer Service Agreement form and review the Volunteer Service Description and Volunteer Handbook annually.

·    Attend orientation and receive training on use of equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and relevant refuge policies and procedures.

·    Follow specific collection and reporting procedures.

·    Wear volunteer uniform and appropriate clothing for the tasks.  

Conditions of Service: Volunteer must be safety-conscious and able to safely work outdoors, interact politely with the public and other volunteers and staff, and actively communicate with their supervisor. Work is outdoors and may expose volunteer to various weather conditions, thorny/irritating vegetation, animals, biting/stinging insects, and allergens.