Stephen F. Austin State University

Description

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) Habitat Biologist / Forester (Biologist II) is responsible for supervising wildlife or fisheries management areas. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency policy.

TYPICAL FUNCTIONS:

Plans and conducts various biological surveys to investigate the population, habitat, and ecology of game and fish species, and conducts studies of game and fish propagation, cultivation, and harvest Analyzes and evaluates survey and sampling data and writes reports describing the results of the data, and makes recommendations on game and fish populations Directs the development of various wildlife management areas or fish propagation and cultivation, and treatment plans based on district management plans. Assists supervisor with districts’ annual budgetary projections, prepares various reports and purchase orders, requisitions for equipment, supplies, and parts, and prepares monthly activity reports Makes presentations to civic groups, schools and clubs, and conducts public meetings to explain new and/or proposed rules and regulations and/or to hear complaints about wildlife management Writes articles for news releases on game and fish activities in district Assists supervisor in the development of game and fish management plans and proposals to expand or improve management areas Performs other duties as assigned

SPECIFIC JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Develops, implements, directs, supervises, and monitors forested-habitat management plans and habitat-related activities on state-owned Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) Provides professional and technical advice and direction to agency staff regarding the manipulation and management of forested habitats Directs and conducts WMA silvicultural activities, including comprehensive resource inventories, timber marking, timber sale administration and audit, chemical injection, and other services carried out by contractors. Implements contract auditing procedures for such projects Uses relevant forestry equipment and software to complete job duties Develops detailed maps and maintains land information databases for resource planning, management, and agency accomplishment tracking Coordinates and participates in conducting biological surveys and studies of wildlife to determine population growth, propagation rates, and the effect of environmental and human conditions on particular species Summarizes data and prepares reports Participates in developing wildlife management area recommendations and the development of short- and long-term plans for future agency conservation activities. Conducts public relations work with various agencies, private industry, professional and civic organizations, and outdoor recreational groups Must understand and be willing to function in a multi-faceted, team-oriented work environment. Must maintain close individual contact with and develop solid working relationships with all Wildlife Management Division, agency, and partner organization personnel Projects project expenditures and assists supervisor in preparing program budget Submits written and oral reports regarding current activities