The Closter Nature Center is seeking a skilled and passionate volunteer to lead the implementation of a Geographic Information System (GIS) for our 136-acre preserve. This is a high-impact role that will create a foundational resource for our conservation efforts, ecological data collection, and property management.
The selected volunteer will guide the organization in transitioning from initial concepts to a fully functional mapping system that tracks woodland health, identifies notable features, and protects our vital water resources. Much of this work can be conducted remotely, but on-site visits for data collection and in-person meetings must be possible for the successful volunteer.
Key Responsibilities
System Design & Setup: Lead the setup of a GIS platform and procedures for system maintenance (The Center currently holds an ArcGIS license but is open to alternative software recommendations).
Ecological Mapping: Develop layers to map forest species, identify invasive growth patterns, and track the progress of ongoing conservation initiatives.
Asset & Resource Management: Denote property boundaries, notable physical features, and critical water resources within the preserve.
Program Oversight: Manage the initial startup phase of the program and establish protocols for long-term data collection.
Training: Provide basic guidance and training to Nature Center volunteers and staff on how to utilize the mapping tools for field data entry and viewing.
Qualifications
Proven experience with GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS, or similar mapping systems).
Understanding of data management and spatial analysis.
Interest in ecology, forestry, or environmental conservation.
Ability to work independently and lead a project from the implementation phase.
Strong communication skills to explain technical tools to non-technical volunteers.
Impact
Your work will directly contribute to the "woodland health" of the preserve. By visualizing our ecological data, you will help our team make informed decisions about species protection, resource management, and the overall health of our 136-acre forest for generations to come.
How to Apply
If you are interested in using your technical skills to protect local nature, please reach out to Tom Golodik (click here for email) with a brief summary of your GIS experience and why you’d like to support the Closter Nature Center.
