Internship - Land & Envrionment

Land & Environment (Garden and Food Sovereignty) Intern:
The Garden and Food Sovereignty Intern will assist Land & Environment staff in conducting field work to improve the natural resources used by the Tribal membership for food, medicine, and cultural use.
– Assist in implementing food sovereignty initiatives such as maintaining Community Garden and Cultural & Medicinal Garden programs, and Tiyokȟata (greenhouse) operations.
– Support with outreach events within the Land & Environment Department

– Assist with “invasive” plant species control and helping with maintaining pollinator habitat and cultural plantings restoration projects
– Other opportunities to assist across the Department based on the interest of the Intern and the needs of the Department. This could include but is not limited to monitoring wildlife nest structures and survey efforts as well as assisting in water quality sample collection from area lakes, rivers, and wetlands.
– Assist with other projects/tasks as needed within the department

The ideal candidate for the Garden and Food Sovereignty Intern position will have an enthusiasm for learning, be self-motivated to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, and an interest in food sovereignty including assisting with growing and gathering food for the benefit of the whole community. A connection to and lived experience within Dakota communities and culture is preferred. Candidates must have experience with or willingness to learn how to use basic garden tools, small engine equipment such as mowers and weed whips, and operating trailers and UTVs.

Qualifications:
• Ability and enthusiasm for working outdoors in many different weather conditions (heat, light rain, wind)
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail

• Successful experience working in a team setting
• Demonstrated perseverance and problem solving skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and effectively with minimal supervision
• Experience with and connection to Dakota culture and community
• Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to operate work vehicles when necessary

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of plant life, gardening, and/or foraging.
• Enrolled in a 2 or 4 year post-secondary degree education program pursuing a degree in a field of study related to the area where the internship is being performed (agro-ecology, food systems, biology, environmental studies, natural resources, or similar)
• Experience with field equipment operation and upkeep (including garden implements, 4-wheelers, UTVs, etc.)
  • Strong computer skills Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook)