Fire Ecology Data Steward - Natural Resource Management Assistant

Fire Ecology Data Steward - Natural Resource Management Assistant This Natural Resource Management Assistant is an AmeriCorps position. The purpose of this position is to contribute to fire management and ecological stewardship efforts via streamlining and organization of data processing and analyses routines related to fuels treatment monitoring in several of Alaska's National Parks. The SIP's projects will increase our efficacy in understanding the role specific fuels treatments play in altering vegetation structure, composition, and soils conditions and reducing fire behavior in our local boreal forest. This information will inform park management planning documents to better manage fire potential and visitor and resident safety. Wildland fire is one of the most widespread and significant disturbances in Alaska's boreal forests. Fire reinvigorates ecological processes, restarts successional sequences, and contributes to a complex mosaic of vegetation communities throughout Alaska. However, recent years have contributed to an increase in the frequency of large fire years and extreme fire events. Additionally, increased fire suppression around settlements has allowed the buildup of fuel loads (i.e., dense woody vegetation and ladder fuels) that likely require fuels mitigation actions such as mechanical thinning or prescribed fire. In order to evaluate fire management objectives, actions, and outcomes there is a need for scientifically-based information on wildland fire and fuels mitigation effects. The National Park Service Fire Ecology Program has been collecting and analyzing data on affected environments, fire behavior, short- and long-term vegetation change related to fire management actions for several decades. Rigorous protocols and methods have been developed and tested, however, recent advances in technology have the potential to transform the way we monitor, quantify, and report on forest characteristics. The purpose of this position is to contribute to several related efforts concerning the processing, management, and analysis of fire ecology datasets. Specifically, the selected participant will develop, test, apply methodologies to: (1) Streamline the analysis of datasets for quick application to management actions; (2) Produce standardized data summaries and graphs for use in annual reporting; (3) Investigate the accuracy of high-resolution imagery analyses (i.e., Lidar, Structure from Motion) to identify canopy metrics; and/or (4) Explore the use of ArcGIS online, Survey123, and FieldMaps to collect and/or share field data. This experience offers a chance to co-develop an independent project based on a balance of the candidates demonstrated abilities, interests, and emergent Fire Ecology program needs. For instance, the selectee may analyze an existing dataset to answer a question of interest using techniques described above. Creating engaging interpretive materials to communicate recent research results will also be encouraged. Proposed deliverables include tested and documented methodologies to improve the flow of fire effects monitoring data from field plot measurement to management decision space. Dependent on SIP skills and interests, deliverables may include new datasets transformed from existing raw data resources, methodologies to streamline data analysis, or outreach products designed to engage and inspire community residents to accept fire as an important part of Denali's boreal landscape. Once the participant has been selected, we will collaborate to agree upon an appropriate independent project before, or immediately after the start of the season. This written agreement will clearly define the scope and methodologies to be employed as well as final deliverables expected. Applicants must have completed at least three years toward a degree in the biological, ecological, data or natural resource management sciences with a preference for those candidates with completed coursework in computer programming, statistics, data visualization, or geographic information systems (GIS). Additional coursework in fire ecology, forestry, plant physiology, written science interpretation and/or technical writing will make the applicant most competitive. Applied knowledge of R, experience planning and managing data projects and strong organizational and computational skills are required. The applicant should be able to complete projects well independently, troubleshoot technological challenges, and effectively develop, document, and communicate results. Denali National Park and Preserve is located in Interior Alaska and offers unparalleled opportunities for solitude and exploration in a largely untouched landscape. Skiing, snowshoeing, and otherwise enjoying Denali's wild landscape in the least visited season –winter– is an opportunity of a lifetime. This position offers the chance to immerse oneself in the extremity of subarctic winter, experience the northern lights, view natural landscapes in transition, and live in one of the least populated areas of the country. Some food and community services are available in Healy (15 miles north of park) year-round. Larger city services are located in Fairbanks, 120 miles north of the park entrance. There are limited shopping opportunities after arrival, so it is very important to come prepared. The focus for this project is primarily computer based, in an office building shared with fire management and resource protection staff. Although direct supervision and support are provided by the Park's Fire Ecologist, it is critical that applicants be self-motivated, innovative, and willing to ask for help promptly when assistance is needed. Park housing is available and will be provided at no cost to the participant and is a short walk from the office. Housing consists of a comfortable 20' x 20' cabin shared with one other person. The kitchen, dining, and living space are shared and bedrooms are private. Kitchens are stocked with dishes and basic cookware. Bedding for a twin mattress is needed. Cabins are "dry" meaning without running water, but water is available in the nearby communal bathroom/laundry/shower house. Applicant must have a valid driver's license to drive a government vehicle. A personal vehicle is recommended for this position. Association For Fire Ecology