Horticulture Programming Consultant

Horticulture Programming Consultant (Contract Position)

The National Forest Foundation (NFF), in partnership with USDA Forest Service J.W. Toumey Nursery, is requesting quotes for a Horticulture Programming Consultant for the planning and analysis of future greenhouse and bareroot operations related to seedlings and native plant species.

Please visit the NFF website to review the full RFQ. Incomplete responses will not be accepted. Responses should be emailed to mperezwatkins@nationalforests.org by January 31, 2025.

This is an on-site, two-year contract position in Watersmeet, Michigan.

1) Duties and Responsibilities: 

The Contractor shall conduct an assessment and production of the following horticultural programming activities: 

• a) Review of current germination and sowing processes.
• b) Evaluate and provide recommendations for growth specifications for seedlings during the greenhouse cycle and final goal for out planting.
• c) Evaluate and provide recommendations for long-term seed storage, containers, temperatures, and other nursery operations.
• d) Provide an analysis of existing seed processing.
• e) Evaluate and provide recommendations for staffing levels and formal training needs for anticipated production and species.
• f) Create a best growing practice manual for all species currently grown at the Nursery and potential species to be grown in the future for partners and other Forest Service Regions. The manual shall include, at minimum:
  • (i) Stratification and seed preparation for sowing. (ii) Best sowing practices. (iii) Composition of soil media for containerized growing. (iv) Supplemental lighting regimen, if needed, and light spectrum. (v) Fertilizer composition and regimen. (vi) Water chemistry and watering regimen. (vii)Temperature and humidity recommendations for key growth stages.
• g) Develop a comprehensive pest management plan for greenhouse operation based planned species to be grown.

2) Qualifications: 

• a) Degree in Horticulture, plant sciences, or related field; or equivalent experience.
• b) Experience in horticulture, greenhouse and bareroot operations and production, and greenhouse pest management/IPM.
• c) Knowledge of the principles, concepts, and practices of horticulture, including all applicable laws and regulations.
• d) Knowledge of Northeast Region native plant species.
• e) Project management, greenhouse operational capacity experience.
• f) Basic skills with Microsoft Word, Excel, and email applications.
• g) Good written, oral communication, and interpersonal skills.
• h) Must be able to work independently.
• i) Must be able to lift >50 pounds and work outdoors.
• j) Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to provide own transportation.