Lehigh Gap Wildlife Refuge

Palmerton, Pa

 

In 2002, the Lehigh Gap Wildlife Nature Center purchased over 750 acres on the Kittatinny Ridge along the Lehigh River and in Lehigh Gap in eastern Pennsylvania. Much of the land was degraded by industrial pollution and is being restored using native, warm-season (prairie) grasses. Other parts are productive habitat already, including ponds, bottomland wetlands, a 2.5 mile riparian zone, forested slopes, cliffs, and savanna at the higher elevations. The refuge is valuable habitat for resident species, and a corridor and stopover site for migratory species, especially raptors and Neotropical songbirds.

 

GIS Mapping / Sampling

The Lehigh Earth Observatory (LEO) will continue mapping surveys using GPS (Global Position System) Equipment and GIS (Geographical Information System) Software. The successful applicants will have the opportunity to work with researches both from Lehigh and external partners who will be studying features, habitats and plant and animal species. Water quality will be monitored and water samples will also be collected at established sites.

For additional information contact George Yasko.

 

Vertebrate Animal Distributions

Sampling of vertebrates, primarily amphibians, squamates, turtles, and small mammals at various sites in the refuge to determine relationships among animal, vegetational and heavy metal distributions. Requires cooperation of Steve Peters for analysis of water samples and GIS training of students by LEO staff.

For additional information contact Dave Cundall , or George Yasko.

 

• Interns will also participate in outreach and knowledge transfer

Fieldwork is required.  Access to a vehicle is helpful but not necessary.

(Optional NS Credit, Field Experience).