Summer 2023 Lake Wesserunsett Association Courtesy Boat Inspector

Background

Lake Wesserunsett is located in Madison, Maine. It has one public boat launch, which is in East Madison. Invasive aquatic plants are known to be present in waters not far from Wesserunsett, the nearest being in Norridgewock. A Courtesy Boat Inspection Program has been conducted at this launch since 2002. This Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) program is a statewide effort to stem the spread of invasive aquatic species, such as milfoil and hydrilla, in Maine’s lakes and rivers. Invasive plants and animals can hitchhike on boats, trailers, and gear and can infest a lake or river, destroying its natural habitat. 

Position

The Lake Wesserunsett Association (LWA) seeks a person to conduct our courtesy boat inspection program and to assist with our invasive aquatic species (IAS) program.  This 30 to 40-hour-per-week position runs from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend, and requires working Fridays through Sundays, on Holidays and on busy weekdays. The pay rate is $15.00 per hour and any business mileage if previously approved by LWA is $0.59 per mile.

The CBI will be trained according to DEP protocol to inspect boats, trailers, and gear for plant fragments and other invasives. The CBI will politely greet boaters at the launch, inspect boats entering and leaving the lake, and educate boaters about the threat of invasive species. The CBI should be friendly, courteous, and positive. The CBI will enter inspection data electronically as required by DEP. The CBI may assist in the LWA IAP Program described below.

Invasive Aquatic Species Program

LWA is looking to expand our IAS prevention program. To that end, the CBI will assist LWA members with conducting plant surveys and developing materials to educate members. The CBI will perform the following duties:

  • conduct native plant surveys

  • participate in the annual IAS survey

  • develop education materials

  • work on IAS prevention (signage, pamphlet, non-public launches)

Required for this Position 

  • At least a high school diploma

  • Good communication skills  

  • Comfort greeting and working with the public

  • Ability to work independently

  • Dependability and conscientiousness

  • Ability to keep meticulous records

  • Ability to work outside in inclement weather

  • Interest in water quality and environment

  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

  • Basic computer skills such as excel, word, email

  • Possess or obtain ability to recognize native and invasive aquatic plants and animals

  • Be physically able to inspect all parts of boats and trailers, including underneath, thoroughly and efficiently in accordance with DEP protocol

To Apply  

Download this application and email it to Elizabeth Payne, LWA CBI Coordinator, at elizapayne101@gmail.com .