Exotic Plant Control Assistant

Job Title: Exotic Plant Control Assistant

Location: Frontcountry and backcountry areas throughout the park

Project Duration: Ongoing

Hours Per Week: Flexible, Mon-Fri

Hours Per Month: Flexible

Description of Duties: Many plant species have been introduced to Florida from countries around the world. These plants were brought here for a wide variety of reasons and planted in great numbers. Some introduced species spread rapidly, in part because they did not evolve here and have no natural predators or diseases to keep their growth in check. This advantage allows them to out-compete and displace native plants. Eventually they may take over entire ecosystems, greatly reducing plant and, in turn, animal and habitat diversity. Contribute to the long-term restoration and preservation of the pineland and wetland prairie ecosystems that, once restored, will support a healthy diversity of native plants and animals by removing and treating invasive plant species using tools and herbicide, surveying areas for new growth or regeneration, answering questions, educating park visitors, and promoting the park’s exotic plant removal program.

Benefits: The volunteer will learn botany skills and ecosystem health and restoration concepts. Housing may be available for this position year-round on a limited basis.

Goal/Outcome of Position: To eradicate non-native plants from within Everglades National Park.

Knowledge/Skills/Experience Desired: We are looking for someone who is interested in working outdoors while learning about plants and south Florida ecosystems.