Colorado Nonprofit Association

Riparian Restoration and Monitoring Coordinator

RiversEdge West (REW) is the leading nonprofit working to protect the quality and ecological integrity of riparian (riverside) lands as an important means to promote the economic, social and cultural well-being of communities in the American West.  

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), an agency within the United States Department of the Interior, is responsible for sustaining the health, diversity, and productivity of public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. Both REW and BLM have a vested interest in the restoration and ongoing stewardship of riparian lands.

Position Description: REW and the BLM have partnered to create the Riparian Restoration and Monitoring Coordinator position. The position will be responsible for coordinating riparian restoration and monitoring programs on lands managed by the BLM and other riparian areas along the Colorado and Gunnison Rivers in Western Colorado, aell as provide community outreach and education.  

The program will bring high quality restoration and best management practices to riparian lands to benefit fish and wildlife habitat, improve river function, enhance recreational and agricultural uses, and foster partnerships and collaboration. The role also requires ensuring that all project initiatives and restoration efforts are in alignment with the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) resource management plan(s), adhering to federal guidelines and contributing to long-term land stewardship goals.  

This position may help develop a joint monitoring program with REW and the BLM and assist with stewardship efforts in two NCAs. 

The position will be located in Grand Junction, Colorado and will require travel throughout Mesa and Delta Counties. Some fieldwork locations may require rafting and camping. Office work will be split between REW and the BLM office locations. The incumbent is expected to work closely with BLM and partner personnel in the region, with direct supervision provided by REW.  

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate with REW and the BLM to assist with planning and execution of riparian restoration projects within the Desert Rivers Collaborative (DRC), including areas within the NCAs
• Coordinate with REW and the BLM to assist with planning and overseeing the monitoring of riparian areas within the Desert Rivers Collaborative (DRC), including areas within the NCAs
• Work directly with the BLM, in coordination with REW, to oversee the maintenance of riparian areas within the NCAs, including coordination with local conservation corps and contractors
• Work collaboratively with REW and the BLM on joint fundraising for monitoring and maintenance needs
• Assist with grant management including budget tracking, meeting deliverables and reporting
• Assist the BLM with NEPA document preparation and environmental analysis
• Assist REW staff with DRC coordination including organizing partnership meetings and workshops, and presenting at community education events
• Help organize and/or lead sessions at REW’s biennial conference and workshop series
• Assist with volunteer events, river education, and river surveys in coordination with REW and the BLM
• This position may help with training, leading, and managing seasonal monitoring interns.
• Develop and sustain cooperative working relationships with DRC partners and stakeholders, conservation groups, other agency personnel and other resource professionals

Time Spent on Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Restoration and Maintenance Coordination = 40%
• Monitoring Coordination = 30%
• Partnership Coordination and Community Education = 20%
• Compiling Monitoring Data = 5%
• Assisting with NEPA Preparation = 5%

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (M.S. preferred) in conservation or related natural resource discipline
• Practical understanding of river and riparian systems, ecology, and land management
• Knowledge of Colorado flora and fauna in arid/semi-arid and riparian communities
• Project management experience in ecological restoration and monitoring
• Knowledge of NEPA policies and processes
• Proficient with MS office and ESRI products including ArcMap and Field Maps
• Ability and desire to work with a diverse group of people including state, federal, and non-governmental resource professionals, and other community representatives and stakeholders
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal skills
• Valid state driver’s license and ability to travel throughout the landscape on a regular basis, often to remote locations in inclement weather or adverse conditions
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule to accommodate project needs including travel and working some weekends
• Current or willingness to obtain Wilderness First Aid Certification
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills
• Ability to hike, raft and work in adverse weather conditions
• Willingness to perform administrative work in a controlled environment/office setting