The stewardship project manager develops and implements the conservation strategies for Russian River watershed preserves and properties and is responsible for all activities on the preserves. Working closely with acquisition and stewardship colleagues and external partners, the project manager oversees the preserve management and restoration activities, including the development of management plans, the design and implementation of management and restoration projects, fundraising for stewardship projects, and working with the On The Land (OTL) program to coordinate activities to bring  community members onto the land.  The project manager works closely with the Russian River program manager to develop regional conservation strategies and partnerships.

General Duties:

Preserve Planning and Land Management

• Develops management plans for Sonoma Land Trust (SLT) preserves and properties, including the oversight of consultants and volunteers performing biological and cultural resource assessments, infrastructure evaluation, and natural resource planning activities (e.g. grazing management plans).
• Manages and directs preserve stewardship activities, including the implementation of management plans, infrastructure maintenance, natural and cultural resource protection and enhancement and tenant and neighbor relationships.
• Develops and implements restoration and infrastructure improvement projects. Obtains competitive bids and drafts contracts.  Manages contractors, consultants and contracts.  Ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and internal financial controls.
• Develops and oversees fire prevention and recovery planning and implementation efforts on preserves.
• Develops and maintains good working relationships with tenants, neighbors, partner organizations, and the community at large.
• Works closely with colleagues from SLT’s Acquisitions Department on conservation planning and new project development in the Russian River region.
• May supervises interns and/or volunteers in various office and field activities.

Administrative Duties:

• Develops annual work plans and budgets for preserves.  Maintains accurate records, reviews budget reports, and ensures that budget goals are met.
• Drafts and manages contracts, leases, and similar agreements. Coordinates with SLT’s Finance department on details and modifications.  Reviews invoices for accuracy.
• Maintains accurate records and documentation, both paper and electronic, for preserves in accordance with recordkeeping practices required by the Land Trust Alliance’s accreditation standards.

Public Recreation and Education duties:

• Collaborates with the Community Program Department to evaluate, plan, and incorporate appropriate levels of public and community activities into the regular daily operations of the preserves.
• Prepares properties for, and participates in, public recreational activities such as public hikes, environmental education, and member events in collaboration with the OTL program.
• Works with SLT’s communications team to support and develop public outreach opportunities, materials, and attention to our stewardship work and preserve activities.
• Establishes and manages community outreach materials and efforts. Coordinates with local community groups and neighbors on issues and efforts that affect the community, neighboring lands, and the preserves.
• Represents SLT in the broader conservation community. Participates in regional conservation efforts. Makes presentations to community service groups, educational institutions, workshops, and conferences at county, state and national venues.

Fundraising duties

• Coordinates with SLT’s Development Department on philanthropic efforts and activities.
• Develops and maintains relationships with public and private funding organizations.
• Solicits funds from public and private funding organizations as needed to raise revenue for preserve planning and project implementation. Prepares grant application materials and completes grant reporting.  Makes presentations to funders and public meetings as necessary.
• Ensures properties are in safe and ready condition for donor tours.

Other Duties:

• Participates in various local, regional, state and national efforts related to conservation policy, conservation strategies, and strategic alliances
• Participates in SLT’s staff meetings, project team meetings, regional work group, and other work groups.
• Provides assistance to SLT colleagues to ensure overall organizational success.
• Presents project updates and requests for approval to the SLT Board of Directors.