Sint Eustatius National Parks Foundation (STENAPA) is seeking to employ two new rangers to support the continuation of our reforestation efforts on the island. After hurricane Irma, in September 2017, hundreds of trees were uprooted in and around Oranjestad and there was significant damage to forests elsewhere on the island. Due to the magnitude of the damage, Statia’s reforestation became one of STENAPA’s priorities. Trees prevent erosion, support soil moisture retention, and are vital for natural functioning ecosystems. The project is currently funded by The Caribbean Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) Resilience, Sustainable Energy and Marine Biodiversity Programme (RESEMBID). Both roles will be responsible to the Reforestation Supervisor and be part of the National Parks Foundation team.
Main project goals:
- Continue to propagate native species for replanting at designated reforestation sites across the island.
- Improve existing infrastructure.
- Employ a data driven approach to reforestation, including the dissemination of information to local and regional audiences.
Main tasks:
- Maintenance of the shadehouses and watering system.
- Problem solving of technical issues/ maintenance of tools and equipment.
- Buying and collecting plants/seeds from on island suppliers.
- Growing and watering (distributed) plants.
- Act as the point of contact for visitors, school groups and volunteers.
- Act as a local ambassador for the project.
- Planting and fencing designated plots.
- Supporting other projects being undertaken within the national parks.
- Carrying out scientific monitoring on reforestation sites.
Requirements:
- Sufficient relevant experience (e.g., working with reforestation activities, plant propagation or in agriculture) or a bachelor’s degree in a relevant topic (ideally related to countryside management, arboriculture, or horticulture).
- Prior experience working on ecological restoration projects (especially in the Caribbean region) would be advantageous. We would also be interested in hearing from those with experience of plant propagation.
- Knowledge of local plants would be advantageous, or the enthusiasm and willingness to learn about our local flora.
- Driver’s license.
- Enthusiasm and willingness to share the story of the reforestation with visitors and schoolchildren.
- Ability to work independently and deliver results.
- Ability to work outdoors, in all weather, for long periods.
- Additional skills such as carpentry, car repair and painting would be beneficial.
- A knowledge of basic ecological/biological monitoring would be beneficial.
What we offer
A challenging and fulfilling working environment where you will have the opportunity to actively contribute to ecological conservation on a small island. The position presents a unique opportunity to learn and work with a variety of people. The project is funded for 12 months, with the possibility of extension.
If you would like to apply, please send your CV and a motivation letter to Dr Erik Boman at manager@statiapark.org. All applications should be received by June 30th, 2023. Expected starting date: July 2023.
