P.O.Box 237, Manitowish Waters, WI 54545
(715)543-2085
contact@discoverycenter.net
www.DiscoveryCenter.net
To Enrich Lives and Inspire an Ethic of Care of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, through the Facilitation of Connections among Nature, People and Community
Recreation and Trails Internship
Position Description
Overview: Silent sport recreation and trail development and management in Wisconsin’s Northwoods are a
growing field, with mountain biking and wildlife watching gaining greater regional and statewide attention. This
individual will be responsible for assisting with trail and grounds maintenance, and with the development of a
growing trail system geared towards mountain biking and year-round fitness. The new trail system is being
developed on a mix of public and privately owned state land. In addition, he/she will be responsible for
communicating with silent sport users, and in assisting with recreational trail events and volunteer trail crew days.
Hours: Approximately 40 hours/ week
Length of Service: 12 weeks, approximately June 2 – August 22
Compensation: $10/hour plus free shared onsite housing
Requirements:
 General: Reliable, self-motivated and ability to work both independently and in groups. Demonstrated
interest in forest recreation, trails development or maintenance, outdoor recreation, and conservation.
CPR/ First Aid. Chainsaw certified. Valid driver’s license. Vehicle/Bike Transportation (approximately 3
miles to/from work site).
 Job Specific Experience: Major in forestry, natural resource management, outdoor recreation or a closely
related field. Familiarity and/or desire to learn how to operate tools to perform trail work including, but
not limited to; power drill, rock bar, single jack, rake, brushing sheers, weed trimmers and other tools.
Familiarity with and/or desire to learn natural history of the region, and the role of trails in protecting our
natural resources. Desire and ability to work outdoors, at times in inclement weather. Willingness to
perform strenuous physical activity such as frequent bending and lifting and carrying heavy weights.
Ability to engage and lead groups of volunteers. GPS and Google Earth (or similar software) experience
preferred.
Responsibilities and Opportunities:
This position is responsible for, and will gain experience in, the following four main areas:
1. Assist in building a multi-use recreational trail system. Participate as part of the Trails Team.
Assist staff with the construction of erosion control structures, construction of bridges and
boardwalks, routine maintenance duties such as brushing trails, and outsloping tread and clearing
drainage structures. Work and engage volunteers on similar duties during dedicated trail days.
Follow guidelines in making safety a priority; responsible for use of personal protective gear and
insuring all tools, equipment, vehicles are working safely in all related conditions. In addition to in
the field training, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources trail staff have committed to
providing training for Summer 2014.
2. Perform project-related trail and grounds projects.
Projects may include building rock staircases, invasive plant removal, creating box steps or
boardwalks and cutting new tread. Utilize GPS to provide data for a trail map project.
3. Educate the public in the responsible use of trails and the natural environment.
Interact with the public while working on trails, taking advantage of interactions to promote
stewardship. Lead and/or coordinate at least two leave no trace workshops.
4. Participate as part of the dedicated Events Team at the Discovery Center.
Assist with event coordination and volunteer recruitment for Triathlon, trail work days, etc.
To apply:
Applicants must qualify for at least $4600 of financial need as determined by the University of Wisconsin-Stevens
Point Financial Aid Office
Submit a letter of interest, résumé, and three references by February 28, 2014 to:
Dr. Melinda Vokoun
College of Natural Resources
800 Reserve Street, Stevens Point, WI 54481
Email applications accepted at: mvokoun@uwsp.edu (include “Trail Internship” in the subject line)
For more information on new Trail Development Site: Visit WinManTrails.com or Find us on Facebook
The North Lakeland Discovery Center is a premier not-for-profit environmental education center located in Wisconsin’s scenic
Northwoods. Our 63-acre site is situated among forestland, wetlands, and wilderness lakes and rivers within the 240,000-acre North
Highlands State Forest. The Discovery Center’s activities and experiences promote stewardship of natural and cultural resources, and
connect people to nature through education, recreation and research. Our events, facilities, recreation opportunities and engaging
outdoor programs encourage lifelong learning and create a sense of community, well-being and fun!