Wetland Naturalist

About the Location and Organization

Located south of Kootenay Lake in the Kootenay Rockies Region of southern British Columbia, the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area (CVWMA) is a magnificent 17,000-acre internationally designated Ramsar wetland.  The Kootenay Columbia Discovery Centre Society (KCDCS) operates an Interpretation Centre located within the wetland.  To support the visitor experience and help create positive long-lasting memories and interest in wetland conservation, the Centre offers educational exhibits, engaging curriculum-based school programs, stewardship programs, canoe and walking tours, nature trail programming and educational displays. 

Each season we offer post-secondary students and those interested in environmental education the opportunity to train as Naturalists and join us in showcasing this special wetland to visitors. To find out more about the CVWMA visit www.crestonwildlife.ca.  To find out more about KCDCS, visit www.discovery-centre.ca.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate and lead school and youth environmental education programs
• Interpret natural history and conduct guided canoe and walking tours
• Develop and deliver interpretive programming for day camps and special events
• Effectively explain the purpose and management techniques of the CVWMA as well as wetland ecology and wildlife to visitors and program participants
• Interact with the general public in a professional and courteous manner
• Participate in stewardship activities (surveys and habitat enhancement)
• Perform key holder and maintenance duties around the Interpretation Centre and trails

Qualifications

• A bonus if you are enrolled in and returning to a post-secondary training program in a related field, including natural and environmental sciences, biology, education, resource management, tourism and recreation
• Enthusiasm for learning and teaching about the natural world and experience in outdoor recreation activities including bird-watching, canoeing and hiking
• Creative, flexible, motivated and outgoing with strong verbal communication skills
• Ability to work as part of a team and individually
• Experience working and interacting with the public, children and youth in an engaging and enthusiastic way
• Experience with program development and delivery related to the environment
• Valid Standard First Aid certificate
• Valid Criminal Record Check under the Criminal Records Review Act for working with Children & Vulnerable Adults

Training

During the first week of employment, Wetland Naturalists receive mandatory training covering: CVWMA’s history and conservation; wetland biodiversity and bird ecology; marsh management; and interpretive strategies and educational values. Training and learning opportunities continue throughout the season as new programs are added and the wetland landscape and wildlife viewing opportunities change. Job shadowing, team teaching, supported delivery, and observed and evaluated practices are utilized to provide feedback and create a well-rounded experience to the Naturalists.