Fall Internship Opportunity: Pond Ecology, Watershed Management, and Dam Maintenance

Fall Internship Opportunity: 

POND ECOLOGY, WATERSHED MANAGEMENT, and DAM MAINTENANCE

Location: OIL REGION ALLIANCE

                Oil Region Venango Campus

                1801 West Fist Street

                Oil City, PA 16301

Term: Fall 2025

Duration: 11 WEEKS [10 HOURS PER WEEK (field/office combined)]

Housing: LOCAL OVERNIGHT CAMPUS HOUSING AVAILABLE (coordination required)

This internship is designed for environmental science majors seeking hands-on experience in pond ecology and watershed management (with an introduction to dam facilities maintenance). Participants will work on establishing baseline ecological parameters to support a sustainable and healthy aquatic ecosystem. Primary responsibilities will focus on collecting and analyzing data, assessing aquatic vegetation, identification of appropriate fish species for stocking, and developing management strategies for nuisance wildlife and invasive species.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct water quality assessments, measure oxygenation levels, nutrient concentrations, and sediment load.

• Develop strategies to improve water quality through aeration, nutrient management, and sediment control.

• Identify and recommend beneficial emergent and submerged aquatic vegetation.

• Determine the two most advantageous fish species for stocking based on ecological conditions.

• Identify nuisance wildlife and research appropriate control measures.

• Survey and document aquatic and terrestrial invasive species, recommending proper eradication methods.

• Identify and evaluate Best Management Practices (BMP) regarding localized watershed stormwater management and restoration.

• Develop strategies to improve local high-hazard dam accountability regarding FEMA and DEP regulations relevant to infrastructure resilience as well as flood risk mitigation.

• Compile findings into a comprehensive report with management recommendations.

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Pursuing a degree in Environmental Science, Fisheries & Wildlife Biology, or a related field.

• Familiarity with, and independent ability to conduct, water quality testing and ecological assessment techniques.

• Interest in aquatic habitat restoration and sustainable management practices.

• Ability to work independently and outdoors.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

BENEFITS

• Gain field experience in freshwater ecosystem management.

• Work closely with local/state professionals and obtain opportunities in ecological management, remediation, and mitigation techniques.

• Contribute to real-world environmental management solutions.

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to mkerr@oilregion.org. Applications are considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled.