WSP Placement Sites

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Year 32 Service Term: October 1, 2025 – August 20, 2026

Please Note: Placement Sites could be subject to change. WSP staff will notify applicants via email.

Region 1 – District A: 11 Corpsmembers

District A Team Leader - Eureka | One Corpsmember

Placement Site Address: 1315 4th Street Eureka, CA 95501 – Eureka City Data Information Link

Mentor: Jason Lopiccolo Region I Program Coordinator

Number of CMs at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 31

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 10%
10-hour days: 85%
>10-hour days: 5%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 35%
In the office: 65%

Corpsmember Activities:

Corpsmember Support: 25%
Education and Outreach: 20%
Volunteer Recruitment & Management: 15%
Editing/Writing/Data Tracking: 15%
Commuting: 10%
Field Work: 10%
Social Media: 5%

Placement Site Objectives and Organizational Needs:

The Watershed Stewards Program (WSP) is dedicated to improving watershed health by actively engaging in restoration science, civic service, and community education while empowering the next generation of environmental stewards. WSP was established in 1994 as a comprehensive, community-based watershed restoration and education program. CMs serve in coastal watersheds throughout California. WSP is a program of the California Conservation Corps supported and funded by AmeriCorps and The Fisheries Grant Restoration Program (FRGP). WSP is also a professional development program, focused on training the next generation of environmental professionals.

Team Leaders serving at the Eureka WSP Office get hands-on experience learning how a statewide environmental program is managed while, at the same time, developing the leadership skills that will serve them throughout their next steps as emergent natural resource professionals.

Each Team Leader supports one of WSP’s four districts where 10-12 CMs serve. Team Leader duties vary greatly throughout the year, but also include consistent tasks such as CM support, tracking program data, and collaborating with staff on current projects. Other tasks include planning for WSP trainings and outreach events that occur throughout the year. Much of the Team Leaders’ fieldwork involves includes traveling to and assisting in the coordination of their district CMs’ Watershed Awareness Volunteer Events (WAVEs). While most other responsibilities require Team Leaders to be in the office, there are also many opportunities for additional field work through site sharing with various Placement Sites. Team Leaders can visit and learn from each CM in their district. Please see the full Team Leader Position Description on WSP’s website.

Mentorship Style:

While TLs primarily fill a role of leadership and have an accompanying level of independence, they receive a unique mentorship experience centered around leadership by having one of the WSP Program Coordinators as a Mentor. Team Leaders at the Eureka WSP office will be given opportunities to work on a wide variety of projects throughout their term as well as the tools and mentorship to develop professionally within the natural resources field. Communication and feedback between Mentor and TLs is open and ongoing and TLs should feel free to express what their needs are from the program and from their Mentor. Mentor-TLs meetings will be held weekly and individual check-ins will be bi-weekly or as needed. Jason believes strongly in facilitating and fostering diverse, community-based solutions in mentorship; if there’s a question that he doesn’t know or a skill set he doesn’t have, there are those in the community that do and they should be reached out to.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

Highlights of being a Team Leader in the Eureka Office include being part of a dynamic team, engaging in a diversity of projects, and traveling around the state to support CMs. Team Leaders are encouraged to visit each Placement Site of the CMs in their district to gain skills and network, as well as support the CMs socially. Due to its close proximity to the California Conservation Corps campus, CMs placed at the WSP Eureka office have the opportunity to share their skills and learn from CCC CMs. There are also numerous opportunities to network and meet natural resource professionals and educators from around the state. CMs are encouraged to seek out trainings in environmental education and natural resource topics to further their professional goals.

Team Leaders work directly in the offices of WSP and receive first-hand experience in program management. They are responsible for fostering a sense of community among CMs, as well as providing support to CMs, assisting in the administration of WSP, and contributing to CM development. They are encouraged to follow their interests and given support to do independent work, if desired. Team leaders play a pivotal role in the success of WSP year after year.

Team Leaders will have the option to work either a 5/8/40 or 4/10/40 schedule.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Experience/strong interest in serving in a leadership role
Ability to travel overnight/work on weekends
Ability to work independently
Experience with Microsoft Office Suite
Experience and interest in outreach
Strong organizational and time management skills

California Department of Fish & Wildlife - Yreka | Two Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address: 1625 South Main Street, Yreka, CA 96097  – City Data Information Link

Mentors: Ben King, Environmental Scientist and Alma Nunez Gutierrez, Environmental Scientist

Field Leader: Andrew Bachteler, Fish and Wildlife Technician

Number of Corpsmembers at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP Corpsmembers: 30

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 75%
10-hour days: 20%
>10-hour days: 5%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided:  Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 60%
In the office: 40%

Corpsmember Activities:

Screw Trap Monitoring: 15%
Data Entry: 10%
Volunteer Management: 10%
Education & Outreach: 8%
Habitat Surveys: 7%
H20 Monitoring: 5%
DIDSON Installation/Monitoring: 5%
E-Fishing: 5%
Spawner/Redd Surveys: 5%
Post-Restoration Monitoring/Maintenance: 5%
Biological Sample Analysis Lab Work: 5%
Field PIT Tagging: 5%
Snorkel Surveys: 5%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 5%
Water Conservation Projects: 5%

Placement Site Objectives and Organizational Needs:

The Mission of the Department of Fish and Wildlife is to manage California’s diverse fish, wildlife, and plant resources, and the habitats upon which they depend, for their ecological values and for their use and enjoyment by the public. The Klamath Watershed Program (KWP) has been monitoring juvenile salmonids since 2000. KWP and other salmonid monitoring programs in our office are the sources of data critically important to management of Shasta River, Scott River, and Bogus Creek Chinook and Coho populations. With the removal of four large dams from the Klamath River in 2024, Corpsmembers are now directly involved in the monitoring of Chinook and Coho population trends as anadromous fish return to the Upper Klamath Basin for the first time in over 50 years. Corpsmembers learn to maintain historic monitoring programs (Scott River, Shasta River, and Bogus Creek) and participate in implementation of life cycle monitoring stations in new locations above Iron Gate Dam (Fall Creek, Jenny Creek, and Shovel Creek). This information helps the KWP in restoration permitting and project prioritization, along with water management in critical salmonid tributaries of the Upper Klamath basin.

Corpsmembers are integrated into the field team and participate in both data collection and data processing throughout the field season, contributing to CDFW’s understanding of fish habitat status, trends and needs in key high production tributaries. On a typical workday in the fall, Corpsmembers will conduct spawning ground surveys on foot, or participate in install and maintenance or removal of SONAR fish counting station and participate in tangle netting, radio tagging of adult salmonids and mobile tracking of tagged salmonids. In the spring, Corpsmembers will learn to identify juvenile salmonids, sample them in traps (rotary screw traps, fyke traps, or incline plane traps), calculate trap efficiency from mark-recapture trials, and assist with data entry and annual report editing. During the peak of the spring juvenile outmigration season, Corpsmembers will handle several thousand to tens of thousands of juvenile salmonids daily depending on the tributary.

Mentorship Style:

At CDFW Yreka, Mentors work to develop and encourage Corpsmembers through regular monthly meetings, individual interactions, and service-related responsibilities.  Mentors do their best to be available to Corpsmembers whenever they need to talk and or discuss ideas. Mentors have an open-door policy and make every effort to respond to Corpsmembers according to their schedules. Mentors expect Corpsmembers to reach out when they need assistance.  Mentors use monthly meetings to individually confirm that Corpsmembers are happy and satisfied with their experiences in Yreka.  Mentors also try to help integrate the Corpsmembers into a diverse team of fisheries technicians and make sure that Corpsmembers feel part of the team.  Additionally, there are two Mentors here in Yreka increasing our availability and allowing Corpsmembers to engage with a diverse team.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

Yreka CDFW has a long history (30 years) of WSP partnership and has a lot of learning opportunities to offer Corpsmembers. Located in a beautiful part of Northern California, Yreka is a small town close to a multitude of outdoor recreation opportunities and can provide a low cost of living for Corpsmembers on a stipend. Corpsmembers at this site could experience the challenges and rewards of serving in a community in need of education and outreach relating to natural resource management. Corpsmembers work with both the juvenile and adult phases of the life cycles of salmonid species and learn about the overall management cycle of salmon in the picturesque Klamath-Trinity basin. WSP Corpsmembers placed here will gain more hands-on experience with threatened and endangered salmonids than almost any other Placement Site. Our local watersheds are among the most productive in the basin yet offer challenging management scenarios in working with local stakeholders in an area where water is a limited and highly sought-after resource.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Ability to work long hours in very cold and very hot climates
Ability to walk, wade or swim several miles per day over unstable terrain and through rivers
Ability to work long days in an office or lab setting while using computers and microscopes
Knowledge of basic map and navigation principles for traditional orienteering

Yurok Tribe Environmental Department - Klamath| Two Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address: 15900 Hwy 101 North, Klamath, CA 95548 – Klamath City Data Information Link

Mentor: Josh Cahill, Water Program Manager; Michelle Peruzzi, Wetlands Scientist

Number of CMs Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 17

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 95%
10-hour days: 4%
>10-hour days: 1%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 75%
In the office: 25%

Corpsmember Activities:

H2O Monitoring: 50%
Data Entry: 15%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 10%
Volunteer Management: 5%
Education & Outreach: 5%
Sediment Surveys: 5%
Habitat Surveys: 5%
Potential for working with other Tribal Departments (Food Sovereignty, Fisheries Program, etc.): 2%
Computer Modeling (Hydrograph/Shade): 2%
CRAM or RIP RAM: 1%

Placement Site Objectives and Organizational Needs:

The Yurok Tribe Environmental Department, Water Program focuses on protecting tribal water resources through monitoring, research, and permitting. Water Program staff perform field work in a variety of aquatic habitat types. Corpsmembers will gain training and experience with an array of industry-standard instruments used in aquatic science professions including hydrology, water quality monitoring, fisheries, and data management and analysis.

Most of the Yurok Tribe Reservation communities are remote, underserved towns and housing developments, some without municipal utility services. Most households within the reservation rely on the Klamath River and its tributaries for drinking water and subsistence. By assisting staff to perform their fieldwork in the past, Corpsmembers have been an important component in the effort to protect the Yurok Tribe’s water resources. Corpsmembers have also provided valuable education to local children regarding the importance of water quality, life pathways of aquatic species, and how these ecological topics impact the Yurok Tribe’s culture. Continuing this partnership maintains the efficiency in which the Yurok Tribe Environmental Department protects Klamath River water resources and serves its community members. In the past, previous Corpsmembers have been highly involved in the Klamath River Cleanup, and the outreach and organization provided by Corpsmembers has proven invaluable.

Mentorship Style:

To provide Corpsmembers with as much communication and guidance possible, one Mentor and Corpsmembers will share the same office space. Such an arrangement will exemplify the professional and supportive interpersonal behavior conducted in the Water Program. Josh Cahill’s philosophy is to encourage confidence through positive reinforcement during the learning process so that Corpsmembers are comfortable completing tasks independently as their term progresses. Michelle Peruzzi’s philosophy is to connect with Corpsmembers and adapt pedagogical strategies according to each individual, so they are able to gain as much from the experience as possible.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

Klamath River Dam Removal is a symbol for the river restoration movement, and the Yurok Tribe has provided steward leadership. The unique opportunities offered to Corpsmembers include: the opportunity to contribute to the largest dam removal and river restoration project in US history, performing environmental management work through a Yurok/tribal perspective, witnessing the social impact of that effort on the community served, exposure to Yurok tribal culture, and a broad introduction to Natural Resources management through assisting multiple Departments and Programs with diverse tasks.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in Corpsmembers:

Passion to have a positive impact on an impaired watershed
A willingness to serve an underrepresented, tribal community
Cooperative team member
Experience and/or coursework involving hydrology and water quality
Ability to wade in swift water
Ability to swim
Experience working or recreating in steep and uneven terrain
Ability to work in adverse weather conditions
Ability to operate a 4WD vehicle off-road
Ability to evaluate risk and safety in the field

California Department of Fish & Wildlife - Arcata | Four Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address: 50 Ericson Ct., Arcata CA 95521 – Arcata City Data Information Link

Site Supervisor: Seth Ricker, CDFW Senior Environmental Scientist

Mentors: Colin Anderson, CDFW Environmental Scientist; John Deibner-Hanson, CDFW Environmental Scientist

Field Leaders: Jolyon Walkley, Environmental Scientist; Katherine Stonecypher, Cal Poly Humboldt Research Assistant

Number of CMs at Site: 4

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 28

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 75%
10-hour days: 25%

Housing Offered:  No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 75%
In the office: 25%

Corpsmember Activities:

Spawner/Carcass/Redd Surveys: 20%
Snorkel Surveys: 20%
Weir Operation: 15%
Screw Trap Monitoring: 10%
Seining: 5%
Field PIT Tagging: 10%
Data Entry: 10%
DIDSON Installation/Monitoring: 5%
Tangle Netting: 5%

Placement Site Objectives and Organizational Needs:

The overall goal of this Placement Site is to conduct anadromous fisheries population research and monitoring. Most days will be spent conducting fisheries surveys in local streams or trapping fish at the Freshwater Creek weir. Occasional “office days” will be spent working at the Arcata field office, both processing and analyzing field data. The daily activities of Corpsmembers will be directed by the site Mentor. After reporting to work at 7:30-8:30 a.m., Corpsmembers will be assigned to work with a crew of one or two experienced Scientific Aids and/or CDFW Environmental Scientists. Most field surveys will require an entire eight-hour day to complete. During late October Corpsmembers will assist with seining and tagging of juvenile Coho Salmon as part of an over-winter survival study. From November through March, CMs will perform spawning ground surveys. While performing the surveys CMs will hike upstream over rocks, mud, and logs in cold, swift water. The objective will be to locate salmon carcasses, salmon nests (redds), and live fish. CMs will learn multiple scientific field protocols, and how to use hand-held global positioning systems (GPS) and electronic field data entry devices. December through February, CMs will assist with trapping and tagging adult salmonids at the Freshwater Creek weir and tangle netting adult fish in the Mad River. During peak migration times, the weir will be staffed 24 hours/day. Therefore, CMs should be prepared to work occasional off-hour and weekend shifts. March through June CMs will assist with trapping and PIT tagging Pacific Lamprey and juvenile salmonids captured in the out-migrant trap installed at the Freshwater Creek weir. From mid-June through mid-August, Corpsmembers will help conduct snorkel counts of juvenile salmonids in the wild and scenic Smith River. CDFW is charged with public resource assessment and management responsibility for native fish and wildlife. Wildlife and their habitats provide essential ecosystem function services to communities. These services provide both economic benefits as well as social and cultural value. WSP Corpsmembers have provided valuable resources to reach these crucial societal needs. WSP CMs will allow CDFW to monitor anadromous fishes across more streams to provide a better understanding of the status and trends of populations.

Mentorship Style:

CMs can expect to learn state-of-the-art science technology, theory, and methods of fisheries science in a supportive and professional atmosphere. CMs will be guided by hands-on Mentors from CDFW Arcata for all tasks for the duration of their term. CMs are treated as valued assets and team members.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

CDFW Arcata provides the next generation of resource assessment professionals with the valuable, hands-on learning experience desired by employers and college and university programs for advanced degrees in biological sciences. The team has been innovating and setting the standard for scientific data collection in Northern California alongside CMs for 28 years. Both Placement Site Mentors and numerous Placement Site staff are WSP Alumni.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Highly motivated individuals
Passion for fisheries and watershed science
Desire to work outside / tolerate inclement weather
Prior fisheries/natural resources and backcountry skills experience beneficial

Bureau of Land Management - Arcata | Two Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address: 1695 Heindon Rd, Arcata, CA 95521 – Arcata City Data Information Link

Mentors: Zane Ruddy, Fish Biologist and Sam Flanagan, Geologist

Number of Years Site has hosted WSP CMs: 9

Number of CMs at Site: 2

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 70%
10-hour days: 20%
>10-hour days: 10%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 50%
In the office: 50%

Corpsmember Activities:

Spawner/Redd Surveys: 20%
Post-Restoration Monitoring/Maintenance: 10%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 10%
Habitat Surveys: 10%
LWD Installation: 10%
Education & Outreach: 10%
Invasive Species Monitoring and Suppression: 10%
Snorkel Surveys: 10%
GIS Mapping: 5%
Data Entry: 5%
Seining: 5%

Placement Site Objectives and Organizational Needs:

Corpsmembers will primarily focus on salmon and steelhead population monitoring, stream habitat monitoring, habitat restoration planning and implementation, and outreach activities (e.g., field trips with schools and the public). Projects and tasks the WSP Corpsmembers will work on include spawner surveys in coordination with Mattole Salmon Group and CDFW, juvenile snorkel surveys, summer adult steelhead snorkel surveys; invasive species monitoring and suppression; Salmon Creek (Headwaters Forest Reserve) stream gauge maintenance and data analysis (discharge/turbidity); wood installation habitat projects; and attend various workshops and trainings. Our fisheries/watershed program is small (one fish biologist, one geologist), so the Corpsmembers provide our site with the capacity to monitor conditions on BLM-managed lands and inform management decisions.

Mentorship Style:

Corpsmembers will be co-mentored by Zane Ruddy (fish biologist) and Sam Flanagan (geologist), who see Corpsmembers as an integral part of the BLM watershed team. At this site, Mentors interact daily with Corpsmembers, providing technical assistance and guidance as needed to meet the task at hand.  Corpsmembers and Mentors work together directly on several projects and Corpsmembers are provided opportunities to work independently in areas that interest them most. We encourage an open line of communication to ensure they are meeting each Corpsmember’s expectations both as Mentors and as a Placement Site overall.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

The BLM experience is unique because the WSP Corpsmembers will work on a wide range of projects across a highly diverse landscape, with habitats ranging from temperate coastal lagoons and estuaries to hot, dry, and rugged interior mountains. The WSP Corpsmembers will gain knowledge in vastly different watersheds and work on fish (e.g., population and habitat monitoring) and non-fish projects (e.g., stream gauge operation). Each day the WSP Corpsmembers will work with two experienced BLM watershed professionals and other highly specialized multi-resource staff (e.g., botanist, forester, wildlife biologist, etc.), as well as government agencies and non-profit organizations that share the same watershed restoration and fish recovery goals. These agencies and organizations include the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Forest Service, Wiyot Tribe, Mattole Salmon Group, Mattole Restoration Council, and Sanctuary Forest.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in Corpsmembers:

Ability to work in rugged conditions (e.g. steep terrain)
Comfortable swimming/snorkeling in creeks and rivers
Ability to work long days and drive long distances

Region 1 – District B: 11 Corpsmembers

District B Team Leader - Eureka | One Corpsmember

Placement Site Address: 1315 4th Street Eureka, CA 95501 – Eureka City Data Information Link

Mentor: Jason Lopiccolo Region I Program Coordinator

Number of CMs at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 31

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 10%
10-hour days: 85%
>10-hour days: 5%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 35%
In the office: 65%

Corpsmember Activities:

Corpsmember Support: 25%
Education and Outreach: 20%
Volunteer Recruitment & Management: 15%
Editing/Writing/Data Tracking: 15%
Commuting: 10%
Field Work: 10%
Social Media: 5%

Placement Site Objectives and Organizational Needs:

Mentorship Style:

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

Team Leaders will have the option to work either a 5/8/40 or 4/10/40 schedule.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Experience/strong interest in serving in a leadership role
Ability to travel overnight/work on weekends
Ability to work independently
Experience with Microsoft Office Suite
Experience and interest in outreach
Strong organizational and time management skills

California Department of Fish and Wildlife - Eureka | Two Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address: 619 Second Street Eureka, California 95501 – City Data Information Link

Mentors: James Ray, Senior Environmental Scientist Specialist

Field Leaders: Kelsey McDonald – Plant Ecologist, Johnathan Hollis – Fisheries Biologist, Katie Rian – Wildlife Biologist, Nick Val Vleet – Fisheries Biologist

Number of Corpsmembers at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP Corpsmembers: 18

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 94%
10-hour days: 4%
>10%: 2%

Housing Offered:  No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

Corpsmember Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 60%
In the office: 40%

Corpsmember Activities:

Post-Restoration Monitoring/Maintenance: 20%
Invasive Plant Removal: 20%
Pre-restoration baseline monitoring: 10%
Seining: 10%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 10%
Marijuana Grow Site Reclamation: 5%
Habitat Surveys: 5%
GIS Mapping: 5%
Data Entry: 5%
Herpetofauna Surveys: 2%
Avifauna Surveys: 2%
Site Specific Volunteer Management: 2%
Site Specific Education & Outreach: 2%
H2O Monitoring: 2%

Placement Site Objectives:

The Mission of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is to manage California’s diverse fish, wildlife, and plant resources, and the habitats upon which they depend, for their ecological values and for their use and enjoyment by the public. At the Eureka Field Office Placement Site, Corpsmembers will be hosted by the Humboldt-Del Norte Coastal Conservation Team, which is part of CDFW’s Habitat Conservation Program. The Coastal Conservation Team delivers CDFW’s Mission through two main pathways: 1) Lead and partner on landscape conservation planning and implementation efforts including strategies to protect, restore, and enhance target species, key watersheds, priority habitats, and ecosystem processes; 2) Administer CDFW’s authority in regulatory processes to ensure the conservation of fish, wildlife, and plant resources by developing avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures. Corpsmembers will primarily be involved with projects that fall under pathway number one above. The Coastal Conservation team is made up of a multidisciplinary group of scientists with expertise in fisheries biology, plant ecology, wildlife biology, and aquatic ecology. The team is currently involved in the implementation and planning of several large-scale restoration projects including estuary, coastal dune, riparian and upland forest, and bluff scrub habitats. The emphasis of this team is the protection and restoration of watershed ecological processes that support a variety of species and communities, including salmonids. In support of this goal, this Placement Site’s organizational needs include additional entry level field focused technician support to increase team capacity in the field. Corpsmembers will be directly involved with restoration activities, such as the removal of invasive species and planting native plant communities. In addition, Corpsmembers will participate in pre-restoration baseline monitoring to help guide new restoration projects as well as post-restoration monitoring to determine restoration effectiveness. Monitoring includes fisheries and aquatic habitat monitoring, native plant community monitoring, and wildlife monitoring

Mentorship Style:

The mentorship style at the Eureka Field Office will be focused on the development of a collaborative, reciprocal relationship with Corpsmembers. Corpsmembers will be empowered to learn new technical skills through hands-on guidance in the field and be supported in their development of professional conduct skills. The foundation of the relationship will be based on understanding the Corpsmembers personal goals for their WSP experience and the requirements of the WSP program paired with clear expectations for the mentor-mentee relationship and work priorities of the Placement Site.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

As noted earlier, the Coastal Conservation team is made up of a multidisciplinary group of scientists with expertise in fisheries biology, plant ecology, wildlife biology, and aquatic ecology. Corpsmembers placed at this site will experience a wide range of ecological concepts, restoration strategies, and monitoring methods to restore watershed ecological functions and processes that support salmonids and other listed fish through a variety of pathways. We work in close coordination with other CDFW Programs, such as the Fisheries and Lands & Wildlife Programs. Corpsmembers will have opportunities with work with these Programs, further diversifying their experience. In addition, we work with a wide range of outside partners, including other state agencies, federal agencies, local governments, California Native Tribes, nongovernmental organizations, private consulting companies, and private landowners. Therefore, Corpsmembers will get valuable experience seeing collaborations and partnerships at work. The Supervisor at the Eureka Field Office Placement Site has several years of previous experience mentoring Corpsmembers and one Field Lead is a previous Corpsmember (2008/09), thereby enhancing our understanding of WSP and Corpsmember needs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in Corpsmembers:

Enthusiastic about learning
Team oriented
Flexible
Have a strong desire to leave watersheds in a better condition than they found them
Field experience in biological or other natural sciences

CDFW — Coastal Watershed Planning - Fortuna | Two Corpsmembers

Coastal Watershed Planning and Assessment Program and Southern Humboldt and Northern Mendocino Counties Fisheries Management

Placement Site Address: CA Department of Fish and Wildlife, 1487 Sandy Prairie ct., Suite A, Fortuna, CA 95540 – Fortuna City Data Link

Mentors: David Kajtaniak and Kaydee Boozel, CDFW Environmental Scientists

Number of CMs at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 16

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 20%
10-hour days: 75%
>10-hour days: 5%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 75%
In the office: 25%

Corpsmember Activities:

Spawner/Redd Surveys: 20%
Snorkel Surveys: 18%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 10%
Data Entry: 8%
Seining: 8%
DIDSON Installation/Monitoring: 7%
Habitat Surveys: 6%
Post-Restoration Monitoring/Maintenance: 5%
Weir Operation/Maintenance and Video review: 4%
Field PIT Tagging: 4%
Site Specific Education & Outreach: 2%
E-Fishing: 2%
H2O Monitoring: 2%
Invasive Plant Removal: 2%
GIS Mapping: 2%

Placement Site Objectives and Organizational Needs:

The Mission of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is to manage California’s diverse fish, wildlife, plant resources, and the habitats upon which they depend, for their ecological values and for their use and enjoyment by the public. The Coastal Watershed Planning and Assessment Program (CWPAP) and Southern Humboldt and Mendocino Counties Fisheries Management (SH-M) are CDFW programs with the following primary objectives: conducting fishery-based watershed assessments and corresponding watershed/salmonid recovery planning efforts; and salmonid population monitoring in the Eel River Watershed. WSP Corpsmembers attain significant field experience in the monitoring of endangered species of salmon and steelhead and gain important first-hand knowledge of fishery management and recovery operations at a state-level agency. Utilizing Coastal California Salmonid Monitoring Plan (CMP) protocols and methods, this site conducts fall and winter spawner surveys in the South Fork Eel River to assess population size and distribution of Coho Salmon as well as collecting additional data on Chinook Salmon and steelhead. This Placement Site also operates 2 ARIS/DIDSON sonar cameras in the fall and winter to determine the run timing and produce adult Chinook Salmon and steelhead abundance estimates for the mainstem Eel River and Van Duzen River. The data from these fall and winter monitoring efforts measure the progress toward federal and state recovery plans and escapement estimates are critically important in fisheries management planning. In addition to these fall and winter data collection efforts, this site conducts late spring and summer surveys evaluating juvenile salmonid populations and the stream habitat conditions. These stream surveys consist of mask and snorkel surveys which Corpsmembers collect data on fish occupancy rates and distribution of juvenile salmonids. The data collected from these survey efforts plays a critical role informing watershed recovery planning efforts, such as the Salmonid Habitat and Restoration Priorities working group. The Mentor and Site Supervisor are steering committee members in this working group, which is a planning process involving state and federal agencies, California Native Tribes, non-profits, and private landowners to identify effective restoration within priority areas of salmon recovery. Throughout the year, Corpsmembers also participate in a variety of other field work conducted at this site that includes but is not limited to estuarine species seining and water quality sampling, juvenile fish pit-tagging, juvenile fish minnow trapping, removal of invasive fish species, boat surveys for adult fish, electro-fishing, fish relocation, drought monitoring, etc. While the programs and projects at our site have grant funding to hire the necessary field staff, such as scientific aids, Corpsmembers can play an important role in assisting seasonal staff in accomplish the goals and objectives of the projects. Moreover, Corpsmembers also tend to bring a sense of enthusiasm and wonder that is always refreshing to seasonal and permanent staff.

Mentorship Style:

Having been a WSP Mentor for 15 years, Dave Kajtaniak is one of the longer standing Mentors in WSP and is able to offer a wide variety of experience in the role as a Mentor. Having worked in the CDFW Fortuna office for 18+ years, Dave is well vested in the watershed monitoring and restoration community. He likes to provide insights to WSP Corpsmembers to the community and all the potential possibilities of work in this field. Dave can also provide history and context to monitoring, fish populations, and restoration that has and will continue to occur in the Eel River watershed as well as the entire North Coast.

Braden is just starting his second year at the CWPAP site as well as his second year as a WSP Mentor. As a recent master’s student graduate and having a couple of years in the field, Braden brings a lot of energy and excitement to this office and the development of CWPAP’s monitoring projects and goal of restoring fish populations. Braden shares this excitement and energy with our WSP members as he himself is getting to explore new areas and new techniques.

Branden and Dave both share their passion for working in fisheries, the Eel River watershed and with the next line of resource professionals. We both believe in creating a learning environment, a fun-group of folks to work with and trying to provide WSP Corpsmembers a fantastic year at our site that they can always look back on being an informative and enjoyable year of their lives.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

The CDFW and WSP missions are compatible, and Corpsmembers benefit from time served here. This site’s Corpsmembers gain invaluable experience in a diverse array of field/biological sampling methodologies in unique, biologically significant locations that other sites are not able to provide. In addition, the CWPAP site is one of the few placement sites in the WSP program that provides the opportunity to acquire hands on experience with ARIS sonar cameras. This technology is providing invaluable data on the adult salmonid populations in the Eel River Watershed and is being utilized in other watersheds along the entire Pacific Northwest. Moreover, with CDFW being the lead agency in the recovery of salmonid species, the on-going programs at this site work with a wide range of partners, including the following: other federal (NOAA Fisheries and BLM) and state agencies, California Native Tribes, non-governmental organizations, 7 private consulting companies, municipalities, and private landowners. Therefore, Corpsmembers get valuable experience seeing collaborations and partnerships at work. One of the current Mentors and Site Supervisor are past WSP Corpsmembers, and they have an intimate understanding of the importance and role they play as Mentors to their WSP Corpsmembers. Collectively, the Mentors and Site Supervisor have 30+ years experience in the role as WSP Mentors and are dedicated to providing a supportive, inclusive, and professional learning environment. It is the site’s wish to maintain this partnership for the benefit it provides the public and significant environmental resources in the region. Moreover, this site has been able to provide seasonal employment to our WSP Corpsmembers proceeding their completion of their term of service. This has been a mutually beneficial arrangement as WSP Corpsmembers have the opportunity to acquire state employment with a natural resource agency, and it maintains consistency and quality assurance for our program. In addition, incoming WSP Corpsmembers gain valuable knowledge and insight by working alongside these former WSP Corpsmembers who have an understanding of all the benefits of being in the WSP program and how to make the most of their WSP term of service. Furthermore, the Eel River Watershed plays a critical role in the recovery of salmonids in California and is the next significant watershed that is in the beginning stages of removing 2 dams in the upper watershed. It is a very exciting time to be working in the Eel River Watershed!

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Ability to hike in streams/rough terrain during periods of inclement weather
Be a capable swimmer
Comfortable with tent camping or staying in rustic field housing during certain times of the year
Ability to work a flexible schedule when needed, such as occasional weekend work and ability to go on multi-overnight trips
Strong interest in conducting biological and habitat monitoring
Experience with driving 4×4 vehicles on non-paved roads is preferred
Ability to work in a group setting as well as independently

Eel River Watershed Improvement Group (ERWIG) and California Conservation Corps Fortuna (CCC Fortuna) - Fortuna | Two Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address: 1500 Alamar Way, Fortuna, CA 95540 – Fortuna City Data Link

Mentors: Brian Starks, CCC Fish Habitat Specialist; Isaac Mikus, ERWIG Executive Director

Field Leader: Dave Heaton, Project Manager

Number of CMs at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 30

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 20%
10-hour days: 75%
>10-hour days: 5%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 60%
In the office: 40%

Corpsmember Activities:

Site Specific Education & Outreach: 24%
LWD Installation: 19%
Site Specific Volunteer Management: 10%
Restoration Project Field Design: 8%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 7%
Invasive Plant Removal: 5%
Spawner/Redd Surveys: 5%
Habitat Surveys: 5%
GIS Mapping: 5%
Post-Restoration Monitoring/Maintenance: 3%
Native Planting: 3%
Data Entry: 2%
E-Fishing: 1%
Marijuana Grow Site Reclamation: 1%
H2O Monitoring: 1%
Snorkel Surveys: 1%

Placement Site Objectives:

The California Conservation Corps is a service program for young people to develop work and life skills while helping conserve and restore our natural resources. Guided and supervised by CCC and partner organization staff, CCC crews implement restoration projects like installing logs and root wads in streams that serve as cover structures in pool and flat-water habitats. Restoration work is focused on streams and watersheds that have the greatest ability to maintain or increase threatened and endangered salmonid populations over the long term. The work zone of the Fortuna CCC is from northern Mendocino County to northern Del Norte County.

The Eel River Watershed Improvement Group (ERWIG) is a non-profit focused on improving habitat for native salmonids. ERWIG plans, designs, and implements fish habitat projects through funding from state & federal agencies and from private donations. ERWIG and the CCC have a long history of working together for anadromous fish, and they will continue to team up with WSP to provide a full fish restoration experience for Corpsmembers.

The Corpsmembers at the ERWIG/CCC Fortuna site will engage in the following activities in the pursuit of developing and implementing watershed restoration projects. They will hike streams and riparian zones to evaluate for restoration opportunities, design specific project elements, collect pre- and post-project evaluation data and participate in project implementation. They will assist with project development by creating maps using ArcGIS Pro, photo point documentation, aiding in writing project proposals, researching stream data and organizing information. They will work hand in hand with CCC Corpsmembers on stream restoration projects which include moving logs into place using grip hoists and hand tools, anchoring logs using wood drills and roto hammers, invasive plant removal, and planting native plants in the riparian zone and on unstable slopes. WSP Corpsmembers at this Placement Site help maintain and increase the CCC and ERWIG’s capacity to develop and implement watershed restoration projects. Not only are more projects planned and completed, having WSP Corpsmembers at the site increases the quality of the work. In addition to the restoration work, they will plan and implement the Creek Days Environmental Education Fair, a 3-day event visited by over 300 local elementary school students. The tasks involved include picking the site, contacting teachers and schools, organizing WSP volunteers, organizing materials, and coordinating logistics. This is a huge and important task, and without WSP Corpsmembers at this site, Creek Days would not happen. The Corpsmembers will have the opportunity to attend various trainings and conferences, potentially including but not limited to: Eel River Forum events, CCC chainsaw class, and CDFW spawner survey training.

Mentorship Style:

Our site often employs group mentoring, where both Mentors and WSP Corpsmembers work as a team to accomplish a task. Individually, Isaac’s mentorship philosophy is to provide the tools WSP Corpsmembers need to succeed but allow them plenty of independence to maximize their opportunity to learn and gain confidence in their abilities. Though he is always available if they need guidance. Brian likes to find out what a Corpsmember wants to get out of their term and find a way to guide them in that direction. What this looks like in practice is making expectations clear on what needs to be done throughout the term, then providing options on what can be done in addition to those critical needs. These can be independent projects, diving deeper in the main projects, or site sharing, for example. In general, Brian believes in giving autonomy in many of the Placement Site tasks, but he is always there to guide and answer questions.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

WSP Corpsmembers at the ERWIG/Fortuna CCC site get a dynamic, hands-on experience involving all aspects of watershed restoration. They assist with the development and implementation of projects that take them from the streams to the ridge tops. Project types at this site include instream wood loading, invasive exotic plant removal, native revegetation, and a variety of other projects that provide benefits to fish and wildlife. This site provides the truly unique experience of being involved with projects from the pre-planning process all the way through implementation. The experience gained at all stages of the process propels Corpsmembers forward in their careers like no other site. In addition, Corpsmembers at this site plan and execute the Creek Days Environmental Education Fair, a 3-day outdoor event where over 300 K-8 students attend. Planning this event will help Corpsmembers build leadership and organizational skill that they can take with them to any job. The flexibility of this site allows Corpsmembers to pursue their interests within the field, while being in a supportive environment so they can really get the most out of their term. They also get the opportunity to work with resource professionals from a variety of agencies, native tribal organizations, nonprofit groups, and private landowners. Corpsmembers at this site work alongside the CCC Corpsmembers and staff, as well as ERWIG and other project partner staff. Though diverse, members of our team all share the common goal of enhancing the environment to increase the fecundity of salmonids and other native species in our north coast streams. With partner organizations that share similar goals but offer a diversity of experiences, plus both Mentors as WSP alumni, WSP Corpsmember experience at the ERWIG/CCC Fortuna site is second to none. Corpsmembers here will find their path to whatever career inspires them.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Comfortable outside in rough terrain and inclement weather
Proactive, with an ability to find the next step in a large project without a need for specific instruction
Comfortable with office days
Experienced pickup truck driver
Computer literate

Point Reyes National Seashore - Point Reyes Station | Two Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address: 1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956 – Point Reyes Station City Data Information Link

Mentor: Brentley McNeill, Fisheries Biologist

Number of CMs at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 13

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 90%
10-hour days: 10%

Housing Offered: Yes

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 75%
In the office: 25%

Corpsmember Activities:

Screw Trap Monitoring: 15%
Data Entry: 12%
Spawner/Redd Surveys: 10%
Habitat Surveys: 10%
Field PIT Tagging: 10%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 9%
Snorkel Surveys: 8%
E-Fishing: 5%
Site Specific Education and Outreach: 5%
Post-Restoration Monitoring/Maintenance: 3%
Seining: 3%
Invasive Removal: 2%
Site Specific Volunteer Management: 2%
H2O Monitoring: 2%
Hatchery Work: 2%
GIS Mapping: 1%
Biological Sample Analysis Lab Work: 1%

Placement Site Objectives:

Point Reyes National Seashore (PRNS) has undertaken an ambitious, multi-decade long program to maintain and enhance endangered Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) and steelhead (O. mykiss) populations within the watersheds managed by the National Park Service (NPS) in the San Francisco Bay Area Network (SFAN). Our monitoring program maintains over twenty years of trend data to determine the success of restoration activities and is used as a life cycle monitoring station as described in CDFW, Fish Bulletin 180 (CMP). The SFAN Inventory and Monitoring Program received long-term NPS funding for monitoring starting in 2004. Based on pilot data, the NPS published a comprehensive monitoring plan and protocols for the monitoring of salmonids within the NPS SFAN (Reichmuth et al. 2010). The NPS continues to explore new monitoring techniques using passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags and salmonid occupancy models. Since 2003, many restoration activities within the park have been completed by volunteer-based restoration groups now managed by Corpsmembers, with activities including fish passage improvement, cattle exclusion fencing near streams and riparian zones, creation of overwinter habitat, and wetland restoration. The long-term monitoring program and restoration activities are supported by over 500 hours of volunteer labor annually and by Point Reyes National Seashore Association.

The missions of both WSP and PRNS are well-aligned which has only strengthened our partnership over the past decade. WSP provides highly motivated individuals with a passion for natural resources conservation at a reasonable cost to PRNS. In turn, PRNS provides a wealth of knowledge and experience through a diverse staff and a unique wilderness. PRNS is committed to continuing the career development of Corpsmembers throughout their service year. WSP Corpsmembers afford our organization the opportunity to perform small-scale stream restoration projects and complete the monitoring necessary to inform vital Coho Salmon conservation strategies. The WOW! outreach component is one of the most important services provided by Corpsmembers. Prior to our partnership with WSP, there was no similar formal educational program offered to local Title 1 schools.

Through the WOW! curriculum, awareness and information are being disseminated at the local level in a manner not previously feasible by the fisheries program or PRNS. In addition, Corpsmembers can engage the community in restoration projects and teach volunteers how to become stewards of their local watersheds. Corpsmembers also increase the capacity of our program to fully implement CDFW Fish Bulletin 180. Without two Corpsmembers, the CSMP would have to reduce certain monitoring efforts such as smolt trapping and spawner surveys, resulting in a less comprehensive understanding of endangered and threatened salmonid populations in Marin County streams.

Mentorship Style:

Mentorship is provided by both the Site Supervisor and the site Mentor at PRNS. In general, we aim to provide a genuine interest in each Corpsmember’s professional growth during the service term while providing mutual respect for the wellbeing of each other. We provide guidance and support while also encouraging independence and critical thinking through blog posts and Corpsmember specific projects. Both the Site Supervisor and Mentor strive to listen actively while offering constructive feedback. In general, we have an open-door policy and try to encourage Corpsmembers to voice their opinions, concerns, or any other feedback. We also believe in collaborating and taking on challenges as a team. During the Corpsmembers’ service term we conduct meetings and events in a manner that promotes team building within the fisheries crew.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

Point Reyes National Seashore provides a unique opportunity for Corpsmembers to work in both a designated wilderness and one of the largest urban interfaces in California. The proximity of PRNS to the city of San Francisco allows Corpsmembers to experience the challenges and rewards of working in environments at the doorstep of a large, metropolitan population. Since the mission of the NPS is to preserve natural resources for future generations, Corpsmembers are exposed to a variety of natural resource-based monitoring and restoration projects. PRNS has professionals in a range of fields including but not limited to education, outreach, cultural resources, wildlife biology, vegetation management, water quality, and rangeland management. Corpsmembers placed at PRNS can utilize their access to a variety of NPS resources and professionals to expand skillsets and build upon current knowledge and interest. Not only does PRNS offer a myriad of topic areas for Corpsmembers to explore, but it also provides a unique opportunity to live and work on some of the most beautiful public lands in the nation. Corpsmembers will gain experience throughout the year by learning and implementation techniques for monitoring endangered and threatened aquatic species including Coho Salmon and Steelhead Trout. It is also anticipated that PRNS will continue to provide low-cost housing.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Experience with fisheries monitoring techniques
Experience collecting biological data and performing quality assurance
Ability to navigate rough terrain in small coastal streams while performing tasks
Ability to work as part of a team
Experience leading small work groups
Moderate level of physical conditioning to avoid or minimize risk of injury
Follow and uphold the safety standards

Marin Water Fisheries Program - Fairfax | Two Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address: 49 Sky Oaks Rd, Fairfax, CA 94930 – Fairfax City Data Link

Mentors: Eric Ettlinger, Aquatic Ecologist and Suzanne Whelan, Watershed Volunteer Coordinator

Field Leader: Sterling Meus, Natural Resources Technician

Number of CMs at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 13

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 98%
10-hour days: 2%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 75%
In the office: 25%

Corpsmember Activities:

Spawner/Redd Surveys: 30%
Screw Trap Monitoring: 25%
Data Entry: 25%
Site Specific Volunteer Management: 5%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 5%
Site Specific Education & Outreach: 2%
Post-Restoration Monitoring/Maintenance: 2%
Snorkel Surveys: 2%
Field PIT Tagging: 1%
E-Fishing: 1%
GIS Mapping: 1%
Invasive Plant Removal: 1%

Placement Site Objectives:

The Marin Water Fisheries Program is dedicated to the conservation, protection, and recovery of native aquatic species. Marin Water’s biologists have been monitoring populations of key species, implementing habitat restoration, and engaging collaborators and the public for over 25 years. The Fisheries Program involves monitoring all freshwater life stages of Coho Salmon and Steelhead in over 22 miles of streams within Marin County. In addition, Marin Water has installed more than 80 large woody debris structures in Lagunitas Creek, treated erosion throughout the watershed, and received multiple grants for salmonid habitat restoration. The Marin Water Fisheries Program consists of two full-time biologists, working in collaboration with agencies, non-profit groups, and other Marin Water Natural Resources staff. Watershed management is at the core of Marin Water’s Mission Statement: “It is the purpose of the Marin Municipal Water District to manage our natural resources in a sustainable manner and to provide our customers with reliable high-quality water at a reasonable price.” The Sky Oaks Watershed Headquarters, which is where WSP Corpsmembers report, looks out on Mount Tamalpais and thousands of acres of forested watershed. The District’s Volunteer Program organizes community outreach projects geared towards watershed protection, including habitat restoration and community science monitoring of aquatic species. Marin Water provides institutional stability and support for WSP activities, including outreach, vehicles, equipment and other resources assigned to WSP Corpsmembers. In short, the Marin Water Fisheries Program provides WSP Corpsmembers with a dynamic work environment and exceptional career-building opportunities.

Mentorship Style:

Marin Water’s Mentors have hosted WSP Corpsmembers for more than a decade. Mentors strive to create an environment of learning and professional growth where the Corpsmembers feel safe, respected, and supported. Corpsmembers have their own desks and computers in a shared office space with direct access to Mentors. Fisheries staff meet weekly to discuss safety, schedules, and updates on WSP activities. Mentors meet individually with Corpsmembers at least monthly. Marin Water’s watershed staff meet monthly as well, and WSP Corpsmembers participate in those meetings. Additionally, Corpsmembers are invited to attend the quarterly Lagunitas Creek Technical Advisory Committee meetings to get professional development and hear a diverse group of stakeholders discuss watershed issues. Mentors accompany Corpsmembers in the field to provide training both initially and throughout the various survey seasons. Extensive training on all survey protocols is provided before giving Corpsmembers the responsibility of conducting these surveys independently. Mentors strive to make the Corpsmembers feel confident in their roles working with sensitive species and collecting high-quality scientific data. Mentors work closely with Corpsmembers on their community programs, providing equipment, funding, connections, and guidance to ensure the success of these programs. Marin Water also provides opportunities for Corpsmembers to take on individual projects, such as developing posters for the annual Salmonid Restoration Federation Conference.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

The Marin Water Fisheries Program is a recognized leader in salmon conservation that offers WSP Corpsmembers a scientifically rigorous, career-building experience in fisheries biology and watershed/natural resource management. This site is heavy on field work, and Corpsmembers can expect full days of spawner surveys, smolt trapping, juvenile surveys, and habitat enhancement effectiveness monitoring. The opportunity to work with relatively abundant and diverse salmonid populations as well as other aquatic species (frogs, turtles, freshwater shrimp, etc.) is unmatched among WSP Placement Sites. The federal, state, and district park land on which WSP Corpsmembers work have been collectively identified by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as the Golden Gate Biosphere Reserve, a designation reserved for biological hotspots like the Amazon rainforest. By working within a water supply agency, WSP Corpsmembers are exposed to the unique challenges of managing open space for clean water, recreation, fire protection, and wildlife habitat. Institutionally, Marin Water provides WSP Corpsmembers with a great deal of resources and support to complete their community engagement and education projects. WSP Corpsmembers are welcomed into a community of about 30 watershed staff and over 200 District staff, participating in regular meetings and other events. Marin Water has also been able to assist WSP financially to help ensure Corpsmembers can attend conferences and other trainings – an important aspect of career building. Past Corpsmembers have reviewed their Mentors as being knowledgeable, friendly, and easily accessible. The Bay Area is a fun, beautiful, diverse, but expensive place to live. Previous Corpsmembers have avoided the most expensive rents through shared housing, by living in the East Bay, or by being local to this area.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Ability to work weekends
Ability to swim
Reliable transportation
Experience with Microsoft Excel
Previous fish handling and/or identification skills
Previous stream wading experience
Experience with technical writing
Ability to ride a bicycle on dirt roads

Region 2 – District C: 10 Corpsmembers

District C Team Leader - San Luis Obispo | One Corpsmember

Placement Site Address: 1527 Madera Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 – San Luis Obispo City Data Link

Mentor: Jody Weseman, Region II Program Coordinator

Number of Team Leaders at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP Team Leaders: 14

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 0%
10-hour days: 98%
>10-hour days: 2%

Housing Offered: Yes

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 45%
In the office: 55%

Team Leader Activities:

CM Support (WAVE & WOW! guidance, hosting district calls): 25%
Education, Outreach and Event Planning: 20%
Volunteer Recruitment & Management: 10%
Commuting: 7%
Field Work: 10%
Social Media: 5%
Editing/Writing/ Data Tracking: 13%
Gear and Equipment Maintenance: 10%

Placement Site Objectives & Organizational Needs:

At their root WSP Team Leaders (TLs) are peer leaders who assist WSP Corpsmembers (CMs) and staff in delivering one of AmeriCorps’s most renowned environmental programs! Each TL is assigned to one of WSP’s four districts and they work to directly support 10-12 CMs. TLs who serve in San Luis Obispo (SLO) assist WSP’s Region II Program Coordinator with program communications, event development, grant writing, data management, evaluation analysis, and native plant propagation. If interested, Region II TLs may receive the same survey trainings as SLO SI CMs and will have the opportunity to get into the field with their district’s CMs when feasible. A major component of the TL position is to travel in a state vehicle and support their CMs’ Watershed Awareness Volunteer Events (WAVEs). TLs assist CMs in WAVE development by editing proposals and media submissions, tracking all required WAVE paperwork, and attend/ provide support at each WAVE within their district.

Region II TLs also oversee WSP’s social media and branding efforts and design various outreach materials (videos, posters, newsletters, etc.). TLs maintain regular communication with their region’s CMs by hosting Zoom check-ins and fielding texts, calls, and emails. If interested, TLs can create and lead environmentally focused lessons with 18–25-year-old traditional Corpsmembers at the Los Padres CCC Center and help WSP develop new WOW! curriculum. Additionally, TLs have opportunities to help build and maintain the native plant nursery. Region II TLs have ample opportunities to hone their professional writing, public speaking, and community engagement skill sets. Please see the full Team Leader Position Description on WSP’s website.

Mentorship Style:

WSP Team Leaders will gain an increased level of independence as the term progresses and are encouraged to take initiative in projects that suit their interests and career goals. At the WSP SLO office, there is an expectation for clear and continued communication. Feedback on mentorship style and TLs’ experiences and progress is encouraged, and TL-Mentor check-in meetings occur regularly (walking meetings are commonplace). Jody is available and accessible for TL support as needed and helps TLs toward reaching goals and outcomes they would like to achieve during their service term. She enjoys teaching TLs what it takes to develop and manage a state-wide program.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

Serving as a TL in the SLO office means being part of a dynamic team (in-person and virtual), managing multiple projects simultaneously, and traveling around the state. TLs will serve a 4/10 schedule (Mon. – Thurs. 6:30 am – 5:00 pm) and some teleservice is allowed as needed. The WSP office is located on a California Conservation Corps campus, and TLs gain valuable support and leadership skills from this unique community. Each Team Leader will have their own office with windows, a standing desk, and two monitors. They will also have full access to all of WSP’s camping gear, site vehicles, and outreach materials. $500/month housing is possible when available; however, living at the Los Padres CCC Center (Location of the WSP Office) comes with many rules and demands. There are also numerous opportunities to network and meet environmental professionals and educators from around the state.

TLs are each given a $200 budget to attend a training of their choice and can also attend all WSP sponsored events (SRF or SERCAL Conference, CCC Trainings, Creek Days, field trainings at other WSP Placement Sites, etc.) SLO Team Leaders often learn by doing and have a significant say in how they would like to direct their term of service.

Team Leaders spend most of their time serving directly in the Region II WSP office and receive first-hand experience in state program management, and can get outside daily to propagate natives, maintain the garden, shadow other CMs to get footage and to learn about the salmonid restoration being done around the state. They are responsible for fostering a sense of community among CMs, assisting in the administration of WSP, and contributing to CM development.

SLO County offers great surf, food, trails, weather, and volunteer opportunities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Ability to travel overnight, serve on weekends, and work indoors often
Ability to work independently and take initiative to help build WSP’s capacity
Experienced or interested in media development
Experience or strong interest in serving in a leadership role (no prior WSP experience necessary)

San Francisco Estuary Institute - Richmond | Two Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address: 4911 Central Ave, Richmond, CA 94804 – Richmond City Data Link

Mentors: Ariella Chelsky, PhD, Managing Senior Scientist and Katie Noland, Associate Environmental Scientist

Number of Years Site has hosted WSP CMs: 1

Number of CMs at Site: 2

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 85%
10-hour days: 10%
>10-hour days: 5%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 35%
In the office: 65%

Corpsmember Activities:

H2O Quality Monitoring: 30%
Storm Water Mitigation: 5%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 5%
Biological Sample Analysis / Lab Work: 30%
Data Synthesis and Reporting: 5%
Data Entry: 25%

Placement Site Objectives and Organizational Needs:

SFEI advances visionary science that is foundational to rebuilding and sustaining the chemical, physical, and biological health and the resiliency of the San Francisco Bay-Delta Estuary and beyond. At SFEI, Corpsmembers will work within the Clean Water Program to support the San Francisco Bay Nutrient Management Strategy Program (NMS). They will work with the NMS team to increase the monitoring capacity of the NMS program. The goal of the NMS program is to build the necessary scientific foundation to inform regional nutrient management decisions that will improve the health and resiliency of water quality in the San Francisco Bay. At its core, this scientific foundation comes from the various long-term water quality monitoring projects that the NMS conducts.

Specifically, Corpsmembers will work with the NMS team to:

Help maintain a network of long-term continuous water quality monitoring stations deployed throughout the Central, South, and Lower South Bay that are only accessible by boat. Data gathered from these monitoring stations provides information on current water quality conditions at a fine spatial and temporal resolution.
Provide assistance with data management and QAQC of data collected from the water quality monitoring stations. This data is used to track low dissolved-oxygen events and the progression of harmful algal blooms, to calibrate and validate various water quality and hydrodynamic models, and to determine suitable habitat for fish communities including salmonids.
Manage the continuous deployment of two water quality monitoring stations in managed salt ponds in the Lower South Bay. These salt ponds were historically used for industrial salt production and are now undergoing restoration as part of the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project. The data gathered from these monitoring stations are crucial in assessing the impact of salt pond restoration on water quality in the shallow sloughs of the Lower South Bay, which are important habitats for many sensitive species like sturgeon and salmon.
Pending funding, Corpsmembers may also collect and process mussel samples from stations around the perimeter of the Bay to monitor common harmful toxins released by phytoplankton. These harmful toxins are absorbed into the tissue of mussels as they filter feed, so the concentration identified in the mussel tissue serves as a proxy for recent concentrations in the water column. When concentrations are high in the water column, these harmful toxins can lead to mass mortality events of fish and marine mammals.

Mentorship Style:

Site Mentors Ariella Chelsky and Katie Noland will collectively oversee all safety and training outlined in the WSP Mentor Position Description. Ariella Chelsky will lead all weekly check-ins with Corpsmembers throughout their service term to discuss progress, address challenges, and provide mentorship for their WAVE and WOW! tasks. Katie Noland will manage their day-to-day activities and train the Corpsmembers on SFEI field, lab, and office protocols.

Ariella and Katie will co-mentor the Corpsmembers equally throughout the service term since the water quality fieldwork is ongoing throughout the year.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

SFEI is a highly unique Placement Site for the following reasons:

SFEI is a large environmental research institute and a 501(c)(3) nonproﬁt organization with more than 70 interdisciplinary scientists working in and across numerous ﬁelds, including environmental chemistry, ﬂuvial and estuarine modeling, ecology, wildlife biology, landscape planning, historical ecology, geomorphology, geospatial analysis, web development, and science communications. Corpsmembers will have exposure to many different environmental disciplines and access to a diverse network of scientists, both at SFEI and through external partners. Mentors can pair Corpsmembers with staff members for more information, supplemental projects, or career advice, depending on their areas of interest.
A large portion of our staff are entry- and mid-level in their career and have recently graduated from BS, MS, and PhD programs. Corpsmembers will join a community of young environmental professionals who can share advice on navigating the environmental ﬁeld as an early career professional.
At SFEI, Corpsmembers will get exposure working on regulation-driven, applied research. There are many unique challenges and opportunities that come with working in such an urbanized system like the San Francisco Bay, such as balancing the needs of management agencies that have different regulatory-mandates and management drivers. Corpsmembers will have the opportunity to join NMS Steering Committee Meetings and/or the RMP Annual Meeting.
Numerous SFEI staff, including Lucy Montgomery, the Site Field Leader for WSP, are WSP alumni. They can offer Corpsmembers valuable insights and guidance on navigating WSP successfully and foster a supportive environment where Corpsmembers can connect over shared experiences.
Corpsmembers will have the unique and valuable experience of independently managing a monitoring project, including leading ﬁeldwork and pre/post ﬁeldwork coordination.
Corpsmembers will gain experience supporting or leading ﬁeldwork on various boats, with the added beneﬁt of world class views of the San Francisco Bay!
Corpsmembers will have the opportunity to learn and actively apply data QAQC procedures to high frequency datasets.
Corpsmembers will have their own oﬃce, computer, Google account, free parking and access to SFEI’s well-stocked snack room.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Organized and proactive approach to work
Interest in water quality or biogeochemistry
Attention to detail, careful technique when using scientific instruments
Experience or interest in doing fieldwork, particularly on a boat

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service - Lodi | Three Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address: 850 S. Guild Avenue, #105, Lodi CA 95240 – Lodi City Data Link

Site Supervisor: Lori Smith

Mentors: Carissa Long, Fish Biologist; Jordan Besson, Supervisory Fish Biologist, and Bryan Matthias, Supervisory Fish Biologist.

Number of CMs at Site: 3

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 6

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 70%
10-hour days: 20%
>10-hour days: 10%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 90%
In the office: 10%

Corpsmember Activities:

Trawling: 20%
Seining: 15%
Tagging/Tracking: 15%
Data Entry: 10%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 10%
E-Fishing: 10%
Education & Outreach: 10%
Volunteer Management: 10%

Placement Site Objectives & Organizational Needs:

The Delta is home to the federally endangered Sacramento River winter-run Chinook Salmon and Delta Smelt. Central Valley spring-run Chinook Salmon, Central Valley Steelhead, and North American Green Sturgeon are also on the federal endangered species list and deemed threatened. In addition, Longfin Smelt are present and protected under the California Endangered Species Act. The Lodi U.S. Fish and Wildlife Office (LFWO) is the largest field office in the nation with the responsibility of documenting the long-term changes in abundance as well as the biology and ecology of juvenile fishes of the aquatic ecosystem in the Central Valley. There are more than 75 biological technicians and associated administrative and managerial staff charged to complete this work. The LFWO recognizes the need to invest in the future of the natural resources field and thus participates in outreach and educational events to further share our work.

Mentorship Style:

Mentors at the LFWO strive for a philosophy emphasizing collaboration, trust, and growth. Our philosophy prioritizes active listening and open communication, fostering a safe environment for exploration and learning. Mentors guide by sharing experiences, encouraging independence and self-advocacy, and challenging mentees to reach their potential while mentees take initiative and responsibility for their development. Our Mentors want to give the people they mentor the opportunity to gain experiences that will further their career goals. Each Corpsmember will report to one of the Mentors but will also have access to all named Mentors. The LFWO gives the mentees opportunities to shadow other divisions within the office, such as the Anadromous Fish Restoration Program, the Juvenile Salmonid Survival Studies, and Delta Smelt supplementation. Each Corpsmember will be able to work in the field with various sampling methodologies, including trawling, beach seine, boat electrofishing, acoustic telemetry methodology, and visible implant elastomer (VIE) tagging. The LFWO surveys the Delta year-round with real-time or close to real-time data sharing.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

The variety of experience gained from the fisheries sampling programs of the Lodi U.S. Fish and Wildlife Office is unique. From trawling, seining, and cutting-edge scientific studies as part of the Interagency Ecological Program, to working on salmon recovery in one of the nation’s most ambitious restoration programs on the San Joaquin River. The LFWO gives much of the basic building blocks of a fisheries biologist career. Because of the field responsibilities of the LFWO, there are many opportunities for junior biologists to enter the career field. Coaching and mentoring are a huge emphasis of the LFWO with frequent resume writing and job application workshops to invest in the fisheries career.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Willingness to learn
Ability to take direction
The ability to follow protocols
Good teamwork abilities
Enthusiasm

San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board - Oakland | Two Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address: 1515 Clay St. #1400 Oakland, CA 94612 – Oakland City Data Link

Mentors: Kristina Yoshida, Environmental Scientist and Kevin Lunde, Senior Environmental Scientist

Number of CMs at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 13

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 95 %
10-hour days: 4%
>10-hour days: 1%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

Corpsmember Activities:

Data analysis and report writing: 20%
H2O Monitoring: 25%
GIS Mapping: 5%
Education & Outreach: 2%
Habitat Surveys: 10%
Sediment Surveys 10%
Data Entry: 10%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 10%
Misc. field work prep (e.g., field permission, recon): 4%
Invasive Plant Removal: 2%
Post-Restoration Monitoring/Maintenance: 2%

Placement Site Objectives & Organizational Needs:

The San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (Water Board) is a regulatory agency with the mission to preserve, enhance, and restore the quality of our water resources for the protection of the environment and public health. Corpsmembers at this Placement Site will work on a wide array of watershed related projects. They are stationed in the Planning Division, which is tasked with developing water quality plans to identify sources of pollutants and actions to improve conditions. Corpsmembers serve a valuable role in collecting and analyzing non-regulatory water data that cannot be collected without their support.

Mentorship Style:

The Water Board takes a very hands-on and supportive approach to mentorship. As the primary Mentor, I (Kristina) see WSP as a symbiotic relationship where the Water Board gains the necessary help to accomplish our programmatic goals, and also serves as a steppingstone in the Corpsmembers’ career path. Although we meet every other week for workload check-ins, we also meet monthly to discuss the Corpsmembers’ overall wellbeing, career goals and to work on resumes and interviewing skills to prepare Corpsmembers for their next step. I am also supportive in finding opportunities at our site or partner groups for Corpsmembers to pursue their interests and gain useful skills. Likewise, I see the importance of giving context and background to all of the projects and tasks the Corpsmembers work on so that they understand the big picture and how they are contributing to it. I have an open-door policy and am available for last-minute check-in meetings as needed. This will be my 11th year of mentoring WSP Corpsmembers, and I am always looking for ways to grow and become a better Mentor.

The Corpsmembers will primarily work with Kristina throughout the program. The Site Supervisor (Kevin) will also participate in bimonthly meetings and provide mentorship and support as needed. Corpsmembers will also work with other Water Board staff on individual office projects, and receive training, assistance and feedback from them directly. Corpsmembers will be trained in field work by Kristina, and after a few days, they will work more independently with their WSP Corpsmember partner or other Water Board staff.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

The Water Board is unique in that it provides its Corpsmembers with rewarding and diverse experiences that serve to protect urban to rural watersheds, but also to contribute to their professional development. The range of job duties and professional backgrounds at this site is broad. Corpsmembers learn a wide variety of skills and work in proximity with professionals with different backgrounds and expertise that will be valuable when they pursue future job possibilities in government, NGO, and/or consulting sectors. As such, most Corpsmembers have found their next job through contacts made working at the Water Board. Corpsmembers get hands on training and experience at the Water Board by collecting and analyzing a wide range of field data, including qualitative and quantitative stream habitat and water quality data. The Water Board also strongly encourages Corpsmembers to have short collaborations with affiliated agencies and organizations to gain additional experience and skills (e.g., storm water, wetland, and fish monitoring). Corpsmembers can also participate in multiple training opportunities to develop skills of interest (e.g., GIS, water policy, statistics).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Eager to learn
Adaptable
Can work independently after training
Good communication skills
Although it is not required, we also seek Corpsmembers that have the following skills:
- GIS, statistical analyses using R, data management, following scientific protocols, report writing
- Some knowledge of water resources, water policy, aquatic ecology, water chemistry, environmental science, or environmental engineering

Grassroots Ecology - Palo Alto | Two Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address: 3921 East Bayshore Rd Palo Alto, CA 94303 – Palo Alto City Data Link

Mentors: Alex Von Feldt, Co-Executive Director and Tyler Feld, Project Manager, Field Leader, Deanna Giulianno, Nursery Director

Number of CMs at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 12

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 95%
10-hour days: 5%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 70%
In the office: 30%

Corpsmember Activities:

Education & Outreach: 20%
Volunteer Management: 20%
Post-Restoration Monitoring/Maintenance: 10%
Native Planting: 10%
Invasive Plant Removal: 15%
H2O Monitoring: 5%
Habitat Surveys: 5%
Data Entry: 5%
GIS Mapping: 5%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 5%

Placement Site Objectives & Organizational Needs:

Grassroots Ecology’s mission “to engage and educate the public to restore local ecosystems” drives our goals of community-based habitat restoration across each site. Corpsmembers will spend most of their time in the field, at Foothills Nature Preserve and/or Midpeninsula Open Space District preserves, conducting hands-on restoration and stewardship of land and watersheds. Restoration field activities will include invasive plant removal, native plant revegetation, tree planting, willow staking, seeding, watering, restoration site monitoring and maintenance. Corpsmembers will also spend significant time leading volunteers in conducting all the afore mentioned tasks. Additionally, Corpsmembers will be responsible for planning and leading a weekly volunteer and educational program for high school students as well as additional programs for students from elementary school through college. Office tasks may include tracking and reporting on project metrics, entering and analyzing data, writing and presenting reports, planning for educational activities, creating curriculum or outreach materials, recruiting volunteers, or other projects as needed to assist their Project Manager. Corpsmembers will also spend about one day per week working in our Native Plant Nursery. Tasks here will include upsizing, propagation, and seed collection.

Grassroots Ecology has several restoration sites in the San Francisquito, Pescadero, and Steven Creek Watersheds. The work done within each watershed is described below:

San Francisquito Creek – Grassroots Ecology has multiple sites within this watershed – both in the urban environment in the lower watershed as well as in the larger open spaces in the upper watershed. Work done in the urban stretch of this creek involves engaging the public to improve biodiversity along the creek, upgrading green stormwater infrastructure, providing hands-on environmental education for local youth and monitoring water quality. In the upper watershed, Grassroots Ecology stewards Foothills Nature Preserve in Palo Alto, Hawthorns Preserve in Portola Valley, and Russian Ridge Open Space in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Activities at this site are engaging the public to remove invasive species and install native plants, providing hands-on environmental education for local youth and assisting at our Native Plant Nursery. Pescadero Creek – Grassroots Ecology has one site in this watershed, a habitat site on the border of Skyline Ridge and Russian Ridge Open Spaces in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Activities at these sites are engaging the public to remove invasive species, and seed collection surveys.

Grassroots Ecology has an additional restoration site along Stevens Creek at McClellan Ranch, a public open space preserve in Cupertino. During their term, Corpsmembers will participate in water quality monitoring and organization wide efforts in supporting stewardship projects. Corpsmembers placed with Grassroots Ecology will primarily work in the upper watersheds of San Francisquito Creek, Pescadero Creek, and Los Gatos Creek above the Lexington Reservoir. All members will have opportunities to visit and assist with various projects within the organization, as well as attend all-staff learning workshops, which take place 1-2 times per month.

Corpsmembers spend allocating the following percentage of their time across each restoration site:

Foothills Nature Preserve (Palo Alto) – 60%
Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Los Gatos) – 20%
Hawthorns Area of Windy Hill Preserve (Portola Valley) – 10%
Russian Ridge Open Space (La Honda) – 10%

Mentorship Style:

As a community-based organization, Grassroots Ecology prioritizes making everyone feel welcomed and safe in nature. Staff use an “Art of Welcome” philosophy and practice to make Corpsmembers feel a part of the organization and excited to participate in the work. The organization has also invested in workforce development as a part of the 2024 – 2027 strategic plan. As a part of this effort, the organization supports Corpsmembers by investing in their individual growth. This is done through professional development trainings, networking opportunities, and supporting Corpsmembers in searching for jobs after their term is over. Some examples of these programs include career talks with alumni, resume workshops, and a professional development stipend for their term. Additionally, Grassroots Ecology makes communication a priority. Each supervisor holds weekly calls with Corpsmembers individually and as a whole team.

Tyler’s mentorship philosophy focuses on building community within his team, the organization, and the region at large, while providing a high-quality educational experience. He uses his background in education to create a scaffolding structure so that Corpsmembers receive regular support while challenging themselves to learn and gain new skills in technical restoration and community engagement. Additionally, he works with Corpsmembers to develop projects that support their individual interests, while expanding the capacity of the organization and team. Some examples of this have included creating field guides in Spanish, rare species maps, and getting Corpsmembers involved with CalFlora data analytics.

Corpsmembers will spend most of their time on habitat restoration and environmental education projects, which will be supervised by the primary Mentor. The primary mentor will on board them to the organization, conduct regular team and individual check-ins, complete job performance evaluations, and oversee the day-to-day work and responsibilities of the Corpsmembers. The Field Leader will supervise the Corpsmembers in native plant nursery projects, which will occur regularly but less frequently than their main assignments.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

The Bay Area provides a truly special balance between the excitement of urban cities and the solace of abundant open spaces. Working on environmental projects here ensures Corpsmembers will have an opportunity to interact with a diverse array of people, ecosystems, and partnering organizations. Our project sites span from urban creeks to city parks, to large open spaces in the Santa Cruz Mountains, so there is always an opportunity to study restoration from a new perspective.

Within WSP, our focus on plants and people makes us unique. Our Corpsmembers have the opportunity to work with and learn from the experienced botanists, ecologists, educators, and plant enthusiasts on our staff, and by the end of their term, they will be equipped with the plant identification knowledge they need to succeed in a career in vegetation management. Moreover, as a small grassroots nonprofit, our organization is committed to building a culture of empathy, creativity, and collaboration. We dedicate several days each month to work on a combined project together or learn technical skills from one another in a more formal setting.

Our WSP Corpsmembers don’t just learn from us––we learn from them and the ideas and fresh perspective they bring to the organization. From day one, our Corpsmembers become leaders in their community, and we invest significant time and intention to help them develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive in this role.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Our work revolves around education and community engagement – with a focus on inclusivity – so it is important that Corpsmembers have the desire and ability to connect with community members from a diversity of backgrounds and experiences.

Region 2 – District D: 12 Corpsmembers

District D Team Leader - San Luis Obispo | One Corpsmember

Placement Site Address: 1527 Madera Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 – San Luis Obispo City Data Link

Mentor: Jody Weseman, Region II Program Coordinator

Number of Team Leaders at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP Team Leaders: 14

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 0%
10-hour days: 98%
>10-hour days: 2%

Housing Offered: Yes

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 45%
In the office: 55%

Team Leader Activities:

CM Support (WAVE & WOW! guidance, hosting district calls): 25%
Education, Outreach and Event Planning: 20%
Volunteer Recruitment & Management: 10%
Commuting: 7%
Field Work: 10%
Social Media: 5%
Editing/Writing/ Data Tracking: 13%
Gear and Equipment Maintenance: 10%

Placement Site Objectives & Organizational Needs:

Mentorship Style:

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

SLO County offers great surf, food, trails, weather, and volunteer opportunities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Ability to travel overnight, serve on weekends, and work indoors often
Ability to work independently and take initiative to help build WSP’s capacity
Experienced or interested in media development
Experience or strong interest in serving in a leadership role (no prior WSP experience necessary)

NOAA Southwest Fisheries Science Center - Santa Cruz | Two Corpsmembers

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, Santa Cruz

Placement Site Address: 110 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 – Santa Cruz City Data Information Link

Mentors: Cynthia Kern, Associate Project Scientist and Sam Funakoshi, Lab Assistant and Field Tech

Number of CMs at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 11

Other Partner Organization(s) of Placement Site:

University of Santa Cruz
Institute of Marine Sciences-Fisheries Collaborative Program UCSC/NOAA

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 95%
10-hour days: 5%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 85%
In the office: 15%

Corpsmember Activities:

Spawner/Redd Surveys: 29%
Field PIT Tagging: 14%
Weir Operation/Maintenance and video review: 10%
Hatchery Work: 5%
Biological Sample Analysis Lab Work: 5%
E-Fishing: 5%
Habitat Surveys: 5%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 5%
Snorkel Surveys: 5%
Data Entry: 5%
Sediment Surveys: 4%
Gear and equipment maintenance: 2.5%
PIT tag antenna construction and maintenance: 2.5%
Site Specific Education & Outreach: 1%
Seining: 1%
GIS Mapping: 1%

Placement Site Objectives & Organizational Needs:

NOAA Fisheries is responsible for the management, conservation, and protection of living marine resources within the United States Exclusive Economic Zone. We also play a support and advisory role in the management of living marine resources in coastal areas under state jurisdiction, provide scientific and policy leadership in the international arena, and implement internationally agreed conservation and management measures. We have defined our mission as follows: Stewards of living marine resources for the benefit of the nation through science-based conservation and management and promotion or the health of the environment. As an agency, NOAA Fisheries maintains six regional Science Centers around the country to provide scientific information to support management and conservation of protected species. The WSP Corpsmembers(s) will be located at the Fisheries Ecology Division of the Southwest Fisheries Science Center (SWFSC) in Santa Cruz, California. The SWFSC Santa Cruz laboratory is widely recognized for leadership and innovation on issues related to the conservation of anadromous Pacific salmon populations in California and elsewhere. The Santa Cruz laboratory is especially active in Coho Salmon and steelhead-bearing watersheds south of San Francisco Bay, and the WSP Corpsmembers will join a research team working to assess the status of these species in the Santa Cruz Mountains region and the efficacy of ongoing recovery actions.

Mentorship Style:

Our Placement Site offers two Mentors to the Corpsmembers to allow for clear and effective communication. The Mentors are also an integral and active part of the team; each Mentor generally participates in the same core activities and tasks as the WSP Corpsmembers. Regular team meetings help solidify priorities and scheduling and facilitate communication. All our Mentors practice an open-door policy where Corpsmembers generally have access to Mentors at all times.

WSP Corpsmembers will be engaged in assisting SWFSC scientists with biological and effectiveness monitoring of salmonids in local coastal watersheds, primarily focused on Scott Creek in Santa Cruz County. Corpsmembers will be working together on various projects along with staff from SWFSC and the University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC). Most tasks require small field crews (2-4 people) and there will be a set schedule for all field work. Ongoing projects overlap by season, so there will be ample opportunity to experience and contribute to salmonid monitoring at all life stages.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

Corpsmembers will participate in life cycle monitoring of threatened and endangered salmonids. Core activities include adult weir trapping, spawner ground surveys, downstream-migrant trapping, snorkel surveys, and electrofishing. There will also be an opportunity to tag (passive integrated transponder [PIT] and coded-wire tag) and release fish produced by the Southern Coho Salmon Captive Broodstock Program. Collectively, these activities support recovery goals and actions established for ESA-listed Coho Salmon and steelhead by NOAA Fisheries and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). We believe our site provides unique professional and educational experience for Corpsmembers interested in fisheries conservation and management. Research conducted at the SWFSC employs cutting-edge technology to quantify status and trends of threatened and endangered salmonids, and their critical habitats. In addition to receiving firsthand experience with salmonid restoration and recovery in central California, our site (as a NOAA Science Center and being located on a University of California campus) provides access and exposure to contemporary research, conservation, and management actions targeting a wide range of protected species and ecosystems.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Basic understanding of watershed ecology, comfortable in and around stream habitats
Reliable, flexible, and able to work weekends
Passionate about salmonid conservation
Positive attitude under a variety of challenging conditions

‌Central Coast Wetlands Group (CCWG) - Moss Landing | Two Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address: Moss Landing Marine Labs. 8272 Moss Landing Rd. Moss Landing, CA 95039 – Moss Landing City Data Information Link

Site Supervisor: Kevin O’Connor

Mentors: Jenny Balmagia, CCWG Watershed Coordinator and Sarah Stoner Duncan, CCWG Research Associate; Arioch M’greene, CC&R Restoration Specialist

Number of CMs at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 9

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 80%
10-hour days: 10%
>10-hour days: 10%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 70%
In the office: 30%

Corpsmember Activities:

Post-Restoration Monitoring/Maintenance: 15%
Invasive Plant Removal: 15%
H2O Monitoring: 15%
Habitat Surveys: 15%
Data Entry: 10%
CRAM or RipRAM: 5%
Site Specific Education & Outreach: 5%
Site Specific Volunteer Management: 5%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 5%
Seining: 5%
GIS Mapping: 5%

Placement Site Objectives and Organizational Needs:

CCWG’s mission is “To coordinate the advancement of wetland science and management on the Central Coast.” CCWG has programs focused on climate change planning, habitat restoration, water quality monitoring/management, wetland assessment and regional water planning. The Corpsmembers’ service with CCWG will focus on wetland habitat and water quality monitoring, as well as data entry/analysis to support their wetland monitoring efforts. The monitoring data collection and assessment will include a mixture of watershed monitoring supporting the installation of treatment wetlands in agricultural landscapes to enhance water quality in local streams and estuary habitat monitoring for the Marine Protected Area Monitoring Program across 7 estuaries on the Central Coast. They will also include wetland habitat monitoring for the USEPA’s National Wetland Condition Assessment. These monitoring efforts will aid local organizations in understanding where estuarine and watershed riparian habitat needs restoration, where regulatory action may be needed to restore it to health, and where it is most important to protect. Corpsmembers will participate in multiple field trainings during their time with CCWG (CRAM, Riparian RAM).

CCWG has a growing list of restoration sites in collaboration with its partner organization, Coastal Conservation and Research (CC&R). Activities with CC&R will take place in upland, brackish, and freshwater wetlands in the local watershed (lower Salinas River Valley) as well as the dune system protecting the estuary in front of the Marine Lab (Pajaro River/Elkhorn/Moro Cojo Sloughs). Activities will include planting and weeding at new restoration sites, plant propagation at the green house, and maintenance activities at past restoration sites. The sites benefit from ongoing planting, weeding, assessment, and outreach activities with the community.

Mentorship Style:

The mentorship will be split between the staff of CCWG in Moss Landing. Wetland monitoring and assessment mentoring will be performed by CCWG staff while restoration mentoring will be performed by CC&R staff. In general, Mentors at this site start the term with a “prescribing style” where instructions are offered on how to handle problems, which then morphs into an “advisory style” where suggestions and alternatives are given but lets the Corpsmembers make the decision. As the year progresses, this transitions into more of an “active listening style” where space is given to the mentees to develop their own path. All along, Mentors try to be as cooperative as possible, striving for a joint vision of what their time with CCWG can be, involving them in selecting preferred projects, problem-solving, and giving space for their opinion.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

This site is an academically stimulating environment, a beautiful location, and provides the opportunity to work with people who are passionate about protecting, restoring, and assessing the wetlands around us. The projects provide a balance of educational opportunities (including field skills, database use, and GIS applications), habitat restoration, and community outreach. Moss Landing Marine Laboratories (MLML) administers the Master of Science in marine science for California State Universities in central and northern California. The institution is perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean in Moss Landing, California, and houses a diverse array of researchers, faculty and students studying the marine, estuarine and wetland environments of the Central and Northern Coast. CCWG is an affiliate research group at MLML, established in 2006, focused on the study, preservation, and restoration of Central Coast wetlands. CCWG works closely with regional partners who have active programs spread throughout the Central Coast, including the local RCD, California Marine Sanctuary Foundation, Elkhorn Slough Foundation, and Coastal Conservation and Research (CC&R). CC&R is a small non-profit with property in the Moss Landing area where it has a greenhouse used for growing plants and staging restoration activities. The organization helps implement and maintain most of CCWGs restoration projects. This restoration partnership between the two organizations has been in place for almost 20 years.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

GIS and database experience
Wetland or water quality monitoring experience
Horticultural experience
An ability to speak and communicate in Spanish
Plant identification
Well organized and independent
Interest in monitoring wetlands using a diverse toolset
Interest in broad and varied experiences in watershed restoration within both urban and agricultural watersheds

San Luis Obispo Steelhead Initiative - San Luis Obispo | Two Corpsmembers

Placement Site Physical Address: 1530 Madera Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 – San Luis Obispo City Data Link

Mentors: Meredith Hardy, Fish Habitat Specialist, CCC; Hallie Richard, Program Manager, CSLO RCD; Makenzie O’Connor, Monitoring Projects Manager, MBNEP; Marysia Borucinska-Begg, Conservation Science Educator, Creeklands Conservation

Number of CMs at Site: 2

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 15

Placement Site Organizations:

Creek Lands Conservation – CLC (22%)
California Conservation Corps – CCC (22%)
Coastal San Luis Resource Conservation District – CSLRCD (22%)
Morro Bay National Estuary Program – MBNEP (22%)
City of San Luis Obispo (12%)

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 95%
10-hour days: 5%

Housing Offered: Yes, if available

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes when with CCC, and personal vehicle mileage reimbursed when with other partners

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 80%
In the office: 20%

Corpsmember Activities:

Site Specific Education & Outreach: 15%
H2O Monitoring: 15%
Invasive Plant Removal: 9%
Post-Restoration Monitoring/Maintenance: 8%
Native Planting: 8%
Native Plant Propagation: 8%
Spawner/Redd Surveys: 4%
Volunteer Management: 5%
Culvert Assessments: 5%
Habitat Surveys: 3%
Data Entry: 5%
Fish Passage Assessments 4%
CRAM or RIP RAM: 1%
Field Pit Tagging: 2%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 3%
E-Fishing: 2%
Watershed Group Meeting Support: 1%
GIS Mapping: 1%
Snorkel Surveys: 1%

Placement Site Objectives and Organizational Needs:

SLO SI is focused on the recovery of South-Central California Steelhead in the coastal streams of San Luis Obispo (SLO) County. This unique partnership between three unique non-profits, the City of SLO and the CCC was formed to promote a regional and multi-faceted effort for the recovery of Steelhead Trout. Each entity boasts enthusiastic, experienced staff whose passion is to protect and restore Central Coast watersheds and steelhead populations while mentoring the next generation. Together, this Placement Site provides Corpsmembers diverse work experiences. Each organization within SLO SI will provide 20% of meaningful project work for WSP Corpsmembers. Coastal San Luis RCD will provide experience in: (1) native plant monitoring, (2) invasive species management, (3) flow monitoring including irrigation efficiency evaluations for reduced consumptive use of surface water, (4) instream habitat monitoring, (5) watershed group meeting support and GIS support. Creeklands Conservation will provide experience in: (1) Fisheries surveys in Arroyo Grande Creek; (2) Assist with Trout in the Classroom and field trip releases; (3) estuary water quality monitoring with State Parks and other projects as they arise during the term. The Morro Bay National Estuary Program (MBNEP) will provide experience in: (1) Water quality monitoring (conventional analysis, flow and nutrients) (2) bioassessment surveys; (3) intertidal eelgrass monitoring; and4) salt marsh monitoring and invasive species management. The California Conservation Corps (CCC) will provide experience in: (1) Surveys—spawner and population surveys in Morro Bay Watershed and various other local creeks (2) Native plant propagation and revegetation on Villa Creek Estuary Restoration project, and Pollinator focused Planting Projects (3) Cal Trans Wildlife Connectivity assessments around road crossings. City of SLO projects will include experience in: (1) vegetation survey/assessment for flood control planning and projects. (2) Work with CDFW on PIT Tagging fish in the SLO Creek Watershed. (3) Work with CDFW on tracking PIT Tagged fish from previous years to determine dispersal or site fidelity tendencies. (4) tree planting and restoration projects in the creek system.

Mentorship Style:

SLO SI Mentors typically adapt to each individual Corpsmembers to deliver what type of mentorship would work best to help in their development. We start by building a respectful relationship with everyone through the onboarding process at each organization. Once we know the Corpsmembers’ motivations and goals, we work to develop project experiences that will help them reach their developmental goals. Depending on the individual’s knowledge and learning style will determine how hands on we are throughout the process. We have daily check-ins on progress and roadblocks and provide guidance and/or resources to help them be successful. Additionally, project calendars are managed monthly allowing Corpsmembers to split their time between organization and its corresponding mentor. Each Mentor has an extraordinary work ethic, so a lead by example approach is common. The group understands the worth of spending face to face time to allow shared experiences to transcend into the workspace. We strive to create a safe space for Corpsmembers to learn, fail, learn, ask questions, define their needs and experience success.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

SLO SI is unique due to its collaborative nature serving several organizations with different but aligned missions (state agency, local municipality, and non-profits). Our State partner the CCC allows SLO SI Corpsmembers to get in the field and work hard to gain the “on-the-ground” experience it takes to implement restoration projects while working alongside seasoned CCC Corpsmembers. With the CCC as a partner Corpsmembers can be involved in unique CCC base events and the option of temporary dorm style housing on the CCC Los Padres Residential Center.

Another SLO SI attribute is two of our Mentors have received the Restorationist of the Year award from the Salmonid Restoration Federation and several of the Mentors and Field Leads are WSP alumni! The SLO SI Placement Site can offer temporary dorm style housing at the CCC Los Padres Residential Center. SLO SI is a very impassioned group of Mentors that continue to be excited about the collective mission of doing everything possible to restore the ecological function to local watersheds and recover local steelhead runs while developing future restorationists. SLO SI is very proud of the fact that many past Corpsmembers have found employment in their chosen field, many locally.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Interest in having a wide variety of day-to-day tasks (e.g., hiking or snorkeling up small creek systems, to office work and meetings)
Excited about SLO SI partners’ collaborative mission of furthering local restoration goals
Spanish speaking skills are a bonus for Creeklands Conservation outreach.

California Department of Fish & Wildlife – Santa Barbara & Ojai Valley Land Conservancy (OVLC) | Four Corpsmembers

Placement Site Address:

CDFW office: 1933 Cliff Dr Suite #9, Santa Barbara, CA 93109 – Santa Barbara City Data Information Link
OVLC office: 370 Baldwin Road, Bldg A4, Ojai, CA, 93023 – Ojai City Data Information Link

Site Supervisors: Kyle Evans – CDFW and Vivon Sedgwick – OVLC

Mentors: Casey Horgan, Environmental Scientist, CDFW; Alejandro Caamano Barrientos, Environmental Scientist, CDFW; and Martin Schenker, Restoration Field Manager, OVLC

Number of CMs at Site: 4

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 14

Placement Site Organizations:

CDFW Santa Barbara (90%)
Ojai Valley Land Conservancy (10%)

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 5%
10-hour days: 85%
>10-hour days: 10%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 80%
In the office: 20%

Corpsmember Activities:

Electrofishing: 15%
Site Specific Education & Outreach: 13%
Spawner/Redd Surveys: 10%
DIDSON Installation/Monitoring: 9%
Site Specific Volunteer Management: 8%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 7%
Snorkel Surveys: 6%
Data Entry: 6%
Native Planting: 5%
Post-Restoration Monitoring/Maintenance: 5%
Field PIT Tagging: 4%
Habitat Surveys: 4%
Invasive Plant Removal: 3%
GIS Mapping: 3%
H2O Monitoring: 2%

Placement Site Objectives and Organizational Needs:

The primary objective of the CDFW Santa Barbara office is to fulfill annual monitoring requirements for the federal Endangered Species Act and California Endangered Species Act listed southern California steelhead rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in a manner consistent with the California Monitoring Program (CMP). This CDFW office primarily monitors streams within Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles counties, but occasionally performs stream and watershed assessments in Orange and San Diego counties. The site conducts a variety of field surveys including, but not limited to, spawner (redd) surveys, snorkel surveys, electrofishing, Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tagging and PIT tag array deployment, sonar camera deployment, fish rescues, habitat and channel typing, barrier assessments, and water quality monitoring. In addition to a myriad of field experience, Corpsmembers will also receive opportunities to participate in data organization, quality assurance and quality checks, data analysis, and report preparation.

The Ojai Valley Land Conservancy (OVLC) is a non-profit land trust whose mission is to protect and restore the natural landscapes of the Ojai Valley forever. OVLC manages over 2,600 acres of open space, most of which is public access, including 10.2 miles of stream along the Ventura River. OVLC has a robust Restoration Program with projects that span oak woodland, grassland, sage scrub, chaparral and riparian habitats across OVLC’s preserves. OVLC also has a Native Plant Nursery that produces thousands of plants each year, from seeds and cuttings collected from within the Ventura River Watershed to protect and bolster local plant genetics. Corpsmembers will work with OVLC’s Restoration and Nursery Staff, gaining hands-on experiences in habitat restoration, planting and watering, weed abatement, seed collection, plant propagation, vegetation monitoring, and habitat mapping. Furthermore, Corpsmembers will have opportunities to engage with OVLC staff and volunteers, to gain a more comprehensive understanding of non-profit organizations and land conservation.

Mentorship Style:

Mentors Casey Horgan and Alejandro Caamano Barrientos will share Mentor responsibilities for Corpsmembers at the Santa Barbara Placement Site throughout the term. As Mentors, they strive to maintain regular communication with Corpsmembers to ensure their needs are met and that they remain engaged for the duration of their term. Corpsmembers will receive formal training on survey methods, monitoring equipment operations, and extensive hands-on experience for all fieldwork. Mentors strive to equip Corpsmembers with the necessary training and resources that allow Corpsmembers to have an agency in making decisions independently while completing tasks and use their best judgement to solve problems. Mentors strive to give increased responsibility to Corpsmembers over the term and want them to take ownership of work done at the Santa Barbara CDFW office. Mentors will share their knowledge and experience as well as direct Corpsmembers to the variety of learning resources available through the department.

OVLC Mentor, Martin Schenker, manages OVLC’s Restoration Field Crew and all our restoration projects, including implementation and outreach for OVLC’s Watershed-Wide Arundo Removal & Riparian Restoration Program. Martin is a passionate educator and aims to uncover the passion for conservation that drive Corpsmembers to devote their time to leading an outdoor, field-based, work life and allow that passion to be developed through vigorous training and analysis of the ecosystems and through hands-on restoration.

Throughout the term, Corpsmembers will serve roughly 1-2 days per month for approximately 8 hours (8:00 am – 4:00 pm) with OVLC. Martin Schenker will oversee field protocol training and relevant safety training for activities performed with OVLC. OVLC will provide Corpsmembers with survey and restoration equipment, and proper PPE when Corpsmembers are at their site. CDFW will provide a vehicle for Corpsmembers to commute to the OVLC office.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

The primary study species, Southern California Steelhead Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), are a federally and state listed endangered species. Thus, Corpsmembers will acquire extensive experience surveying for an endangered species, which can be beneficial for them in the future if they go on to work with other threatened or sensitive species. CDFW Santa Barbara is the leading practitioner of salmonid monitoring in Southern California and employs several different survey methods. Corpsmembers will learn how to use a sonar camera (DIDSON & ARIS), operate a backpack electro fisher, conduct PIT tagging surveys, and operate a PIT tag array – all of which are highly sought-after skills in fisheries monitoring. Corpsmembers are also given the opportunity to see through and participate in the entire life cycle of data from planning to collection to QA/QC and finally reporting. The CDFW Santa Barbara Placement Site offers a variety of microbiomes and unique conservation circumstances. Corpsmembers will conduct surveys in short, high-gradient, spring-fed coastal streams as well as expansive, large floodplain watersheds that expand farther inland where elevation and temperatures are higher. Many of the watersheds are impacted by urbanization and development, and these watersheds present unique opportunities for balancing conservation and restoration efforts with public use. This dynamic offers many possibilities for Corpsmembers’ volunteer events.

Through CDFW Santa Barbara’s close partners, there are opportunities to participate in other monitoring outside of fisheries (e.g., native plant propagation, water quality monitoring, invasive removal, fish passage barrier assessments) so the interests of Corpsmembers can best be met. CDFW also hosts an extensive network of trainings and software licenses to allow Corpsmembers to seek additional experience in other fields.

The partnership with OVLC offers first-hand opportunities to participate in watershed restoration, native planting, and nursery management. This partnership also allows Corpsmembers to contribute to both fisheries monitoring and habitat restoration work in the Ventura River Watershed and helps them better understand and appreciate contributing factors to a healthy watershed as well as see the diversity of careers in the environment. Since OVLC is a hub for a large community devoted to conservation, Corpsmembers will get hands-on experience with community-based conservation activities.

The City of Santa Barbara and the surrounding areas are highly desirable, albeit expensive, places to live. Hiking, camping, and surfing are all available within a 20-minute drive and the downtown area is bustling with restaurants, theaters, and art galleries. The weather is pleasant year-round and opportunities for community engagement are plentiful. Many of the streams in southern California are highly impacted by urbanization, so there are many opportunities for stream restoration and collaboration with local conservation organizations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Experience hiking, particularly through streams/riparian areas, handling fish/aquatic species, and fish species identification are helpful for conducting fieldwork
Experience with data collection and entry is useful
Enthusiasm, willingness to learn new skills, and curiosity about the bigger implications of ecological monitoring and restoration will help Corpsmembers be successful

RCD Santa Monica Mountains - Topanga | Two Corpsmembers

Placement Site Physical Address: 4505 Las Virgenes Rd. Suite 215, Calabasas, CA 91302 – Calabasas City Data Information Link

Site Supervisor: Marilyn Brody French, Director of Education

Mentors: Jelly Kahler, Community Engagement Manager; Alyssa Morgan, Conservation Biologist, Project Manager;

Field Leaders: Isaac Yelchin, Conservation Biologist Technician, Aquatics Project Manager (yet to be hired)

Number of CMs at Site: 1

Number of Years Site has Hosted WSP CMs: 12

Service Hours:

8-hour days: 75%
10-hour days: 15%
>10-hour days: 10%

Housing Offered: No

Work Vehicle Provided: Yes

CM Time Spent in Field/Office:

In the field: 75%
In the office: 25%

Corpsmember Activities:

Education & Outreach: 12%
Commuting To/From Field Sites: 12%
Data Entry: 10%
Native Planting: 10%
H2O Monitoring: 10%
Volunteer Management: 10%
Habitat Surveys: 6%
Biological Sample Analysis Lab Work: 5%
Sediment Surveys: 5%
Snorkel Surveys: 5%
Seining: 5%
Invasive Plant Removal: 1%
Hatchery Work: 1%
Post-Restoration Monitoring/Maintenance: 1%
Spawner/Redd Surveys: 1%
Water Conservation Projects: 1%
Storm Water Mitigation: 1%
E-Fishing: 1%
GIS Mapping: 1%
CRAM or RIP RAM: 0.5%
Weir Operation/Maintenance: 0.5%
DIDSON Installation/Monitoring: 0.5%
Field PIT Tagging: 0.5%

Placement Site Objectives and Organizational Needs:

The RCDSMM has been conducting research and restoration projects focused on recovering endangered Southern California Steelhead Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) since 2001. The RCDSMM is currently leading development plans to restore Topanga Lagoon (especially in the wake of recent fires) and RCDs Executive Officer is one of the leading designers behind the Wildlife Liberty (Wallis Annenberg) Crossing over the 101 Freeway. The Corpsmember placed with the RCDSMM participates in a wide variety of projects, such as on-going restoration of riparian, oak woodland, and wetland habitat, monthly snorkel, and spawner surveys, as well as assisting in a variety of studies to help understand the complexity of coastal salmonid life cycles. The Corpsmember will work with neighboring WSP Placement Site (CDFW) in Santa Barbara to learn about mark-recapture, DIDSON and instream antenna monitoring, and weir trapping. Because the RCDSMM takes a watershed approach to research, Corpsmember will also participate in annual stream surveys focused on amphibian population abundance and distribution and assist with on-going monitoring of western pond turtles. The Corpsmember will play a key role in riparian tree monitoring effort and oak riparian forest restoration. They will also lead events involving invasive species removal and community-based Stream Team events, continue upper watershed tree and turtle monitoring, perform drought and storm event monitoring, and coordinate community science projects. The combination of research, monitoring and restoration experience not only will benefit the Corpsmember but provide essential personnel to support these efforts.

For education, the WSP Corpsmember can help create and lead environmental education lessons focused on various topics including watersheds, climate change, community science as well as flora and fauna of the Santa Monica Mountains. Lessons are available to K-12 students with most lessons being taught to 3rd – 6th graders. They will also participate in and lead outdoor field education programs at our 3 field sites where students engage in science-based hands-on learning in nature.

Mentorship Style:

The RCD of the Santa Monica Mountains has three Mentors. Marilyn Brody French is the RCD’s Director of Education and will ensure the Corpsmember is well equipped to lead the RCD’s various environmental education and outdoor science-based education programs and will help foster and grow the Corpsmember’s leadership and educational instructor skills. As the Conservation Biologist & Project Manager for the RCDSMM, Alyssa Morgan will be mentoring the CORPSMEMBER in all biological projects along with a connection to an extensive network of watershed professionals throughout Southern California. Jelly Kahler is the Community Engagement Manager at the RCD and will provide a holistic perspective on all RCD operations. As a past Corpsmember herself, she also brings and will emphasize a deep connection to WSP.

Marilyn asks questions and listens with intention to those she mentors and supervises. She is a fierce advocate for the Corpsmember ‘s serving at the RCDSMM ensuring the site is adhering to WSP protocol and working to improve site culture to ensure the safety and support of our Corpsmembers and her team of 35 educators she oversees.

Alyssa brings a supportive, hands-on, encouraging and independent attitude. She is most available to the Corpsmember and is a constant steady guide in their day to day as the majority of the CORPSMEMBER’s work will be under her direction. Alyssa takes great pride in upholding a safe environment both physically and psychologically for early career biologists. This site provides quality mentorship under a wide variety of projects and exposure to many facets of resource monitoring and management, and community engagement.

Jelly’s mentor style will be peer-based and steeped in her diverse experience while working for the RCDSMM. As someone who has been a WSP Team Leader and Corpsmember, she is able to relate to the WSP experience and specific inner-workings of WSP as well as the associated obligations attached to representing AmeriCorps, the CCC and WSP simultaneously. She will encourage the Corpsmember to form meaningful connections with fellow WSP Corpsmembers and take advantage of the community this incredible organization is capable of building. Jelly plans to support the individual goals of each Corpsmember. She has the privilege of mentoring and will support them in a way that informs and advances their career and personal growth.

Unique Characteristics of Placement Site:

RCDSMM is a unique Placement Site because the Corpsmember does not have a site partner. However, this is not necessarily a problem, as they are involved in numerous projects very quickly alongside a multitude of young career scientists and can therefore grow within our community as well as independently as an individual. With multiple grants occurring simultaneously, the Corpsmember will gain experience in a breadth of topics including direct fisheries work, tree surveys, stream surveys, and riparian habitat mapping. There are opportunities to publish peer-reviewed papers because of the work the Corpsmember will be involved in, which offers a great steppingstone to apply to graduate school. The jurisdiction of the Santa Monica Mountains is quite large, and there are many opportunities to attend interesting management meetings. The combination of urban and wildland areas in such proximity helps develop an understanding of land use planning and avoid anthropogenic impacts on wildlife.

The southern region also has a unique situation when it comes to climate, where several local creeks will dry in sections or entirely by the end of the summer. Lagoons are connected to the ocean for short periods of time, and there are few anadromous fish coming into the system. This means that it is very busy during the short rainy season, and the Corpsmember will get to experience the monitoring of several lagoons at the RCDSMM. This site also has a several-decades-old education department that reaches several thousand schools throughout Los Angeles and Ventura counties, making this a unique opportunity for Corpsmember ‘s to engage with the community and build a strong skill set in science communication and community engagement.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired in CM:

Desire to engage with community members including students
Ability/desire to work 1-2 weekend days a month