USFS Research Opportunity in Trespass Grows on Public Land
*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.
A research opportunity is currently available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), U.S. Forest Service (USFS), Pacific Southwest Research Station.
At the heart of the U.S. Forest Service's mission is their purpose. Everything they do is intended to help sustain forests and grasslands for present and future generations. Why? Because their stewardship work supports nature in sustaining life. This is the purpose that drives the agency’s mission and motivates their work across the agency. It’s been there from the agency’s very beginning, and it still drives them. To advance the mission and serve their purpose, the U.S. Forest Service balances the short and long-term needs of people and nature by: working in collaboration with communities and our partners; providing access to resources and experiences that promote economic, ecological, and social vitality; connecting people to the land and one another; and delivering world-class science, technology and land management.
Throughout the course of this research project, the participant will participate on an USFS Pacific Southwest Research Station team conducting research to identify and mitigate the effects of trespass cannabis grow operations on public lands and to measure the effectiveness of stream and meadow restoration. “Trespass grows” are illicit cannabis grows on public lands. Trespass grows constitute one of the leading environmental issues for California, poisoning wildlife on a landscape scale, contaminating soils and water with banned chemicals, and de-watering watersheds. USFS LEI agents face significant challenges locating these sites and addressing their negative impacts.
Under the guidance of a mentor, the participant will be involved in the following activities:
- Developing automated remote sensing models to identify grow sites
- Soil and aquatic monitoring to assess impacts to water quality and to aquatic and terrestrial biota
- Monitoring wildlife populations in and adjacent to cannabis cultivation areas
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: Fall 2020
This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and USFS. The initial appointment is for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of USFS and is contingent on the availability of funds. The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. The appointment will be full-time. Participants do not become employees of USDA, USFS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits.
This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only.
For more information about the USFS Research Participation Program, please visit the Program Website.
If you have questions, send an email to USForestService@orise.orau.gov.