MSU Listserv

 Edward Lowe Foundation

2025 Summer Conservation Steward



The Edward Lowe Foundation is a national, nonprofit organization that advocates entrepreneurship as a strategy for economic growth and community development, with a secondary mission of land stewardship. As an operating foundation, we run our own programs rather than give grants, and we focus on second-stage companies — those beyond the startup phase that seek significant, steady growth. The foundation owns 2,000 acres in southwest Michigan, which is known as Big Rock Valley (BRV). Comprised of woodlands, wetlands, restored grasslands and farmland, BRV is managed to promote natural landscapes and native species. This position will run from May through August 2025, depending on availability of the selected candidate. One person will be selected from all eligible candidates.



SCOPE OF WORK



The conservation steward position focuses on a combination of stewardship-related activities at BRV. This position is aimed at aiding in the growth of a future natural resources professional, as well as the continued stewardship of the foundation’s property. If the selected candidate has a particular interest in biological research, a portion of their time may be devoted towards an onsite research project as well.



The majority of the work will be aimed at managing invasive species. In addition, the summer conservation steward will assist with such activities as wildlife surveys (eastern massasauga rattlesnake, mitchell satyr butterfly, acoustic bat, etc.), prescribed fires, brush removal, erosion control and timber stand improvement.



This position is physically demanding, and the selected candidate must be able lift and carry weights of 40 pounds or more. The summer conservation steward will work both individually and as part of a team in remote locations across the property. The position is primarily an outdoor one that may include working in inclement weather. Knowledge of Michigan’s flora and fauna, along with the ability to identify invasive species, is required. Possession of a pesticide applicators license, or willingness to get one, is a plus.



This summer position is open to an undergraduate student or a recent graduate, majoring in natural resource management, wildlife biology, conservation sciences or related field who wants to gain experience in natural resource management. Prior to starting, the selected candidate must pass a background check, have a valid driver’s license and suitable driving record.



ADDITIONAL INFORMATION



Work schedule — 40 hours per week, May through August. The weekly schedule is flexible; hours are primarily Monday through Friday with occasional weekend assignments.



Compensation — $15 per hour, along with onsite housing at the foundation’s headquarters in Cassopolis, Michigan.



To apply — Email Jarod Reibel, director of physical resources, at [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]> no later than March 9, 2025. Your application should be integrated into one document that includes:



• A one-page cover letter, which includes your available start date (and end date if applicable.)

• Resume with three references.



If you have any questions, please reach out to Jarod at [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]> or 269-445-4229.