Internship - Early Detection Rapid Response Program

About Us:

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on conservation programs for youth and adults. Program participants protect and restore national parks, national forests, wildlife refuges, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, community green spaces, and much more across the country.

Site: USFWS Region 4

Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) Internships

Projected dates: 5/5/2025 - 3/14/2026 (41 weeks)

Project Description:

The Southeast Region (Region 4) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Fish and Aquatic Conservation Program proposes to utilize student interns to fulfill objectives of the national Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) program. The Service will place interns in various strategic locations within the Southeast Region, based on overarching data collection needs as determined by leadership and in conjunction with EDRR protocols. Sampling may include water collections for environmental DNA (eDNA) analyses, physical sampling using a variety of fisheries sampling gears, and other sampling as required. Interns will be utilized to input data into databases, including quality assurance/quality control measures, in addition to technical writing. Interns will also be utilized for field preparations and after-action tasks including, but not limited to: creating float plans (as applicable), mapping sampling locations, gathering and loading necessary equipment; disinfecting equipment and gear upon return; cleaning and storing gear.

This internship will be a vital contributing member of the LMRFWCO team, participating in field investigations related to species and habitat assessments. Examples include:

• Management and control of invasive carps in the greater Mississippi River Basin

• Early detection / rapid response protocols

• Evaluation of removal and deterrent effectiveness

• Conducting population estimates and testing gear effectiveness

• Monitoring and evaluation of native aquatic species in large rivers and small streams:

• Surveys of species of conservation concern

• Habitat assessments (e.g., barrier / connectivity assessments) to identify habitat restoration opportunities

• Monitoring and assessment related to hatchery propagation and production programs. Successful candidates will work in a variety of different aquatic habitats as part of a team to employ different fisheries sampling tech-niques and laboratory procedures in contributing to mission critical objectives. Key duties of these positions will include:

• Field sampling and data processing

• Data entry quality assurance checks

• Fisheries specific tasks (e.g., microscopy, age estimation, etc.)

• Preparation and maintenance of equipment and gear such as disinfection following field activities and gear repair (net mending, etc.)

• Detailed reporting, effective communication, and office maintenance including digitization and archival of administrative records, making administrative copies, detailing and fueling of vehicles and vessels, general office cleaning and upkeep, reporting and communication with office staff and external partners

These positions will require substantial travel (approximately ~50%) to sampling locations and will require field staff to stay overnight in hotels for lodging (Monday through Friday). Lodging and meal per diem will be provided by USFWS. Most days in the field are scheduled for 8h (typically 6:30a – 2:30p) but can extend up to 10 – 15h depending on circumstances (equipment failures, logistics, high captures of fish, etc.). The successful applicant for these positions will be required to work in harsh weather environments (extreme heat, high humidity, cold), while being exposed to biting and stinging insects, large and venomous reptiles, dirt and mud, fish slime, fish blood, and fish feces.

Intern Benefits:

Living Allowance: $600 per week

SCA Leased Housing Provided

One-time relocation travel allowance: $1,100.00

Reimbursable Duty-Travel/Expenses : $1,500.00 (Supervisor approval required)

AmeriCorps Eligible

Requirements:

High school diploma or General Educational Development required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred. Previous experience may substitute for higher education requirements; preferred experience is 1+ year assisting or conducting aquatic species and habitat sampling,

111 E. Elizabeth St., Tupelo, MS 38804 662/346-4403 lmrfwco@fws.gov https://www.fws.gov/office/lower-mississippi-river-fish-and-wildlife-conservation

data entry and quality assurance, and working in strenuous conditions. These positions require the applicant to be able to lift and carry more than 50 lbs. and work in aquatic environments that are often over uneven surfaces.