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GREEN HORIZONS CAREERS IN THE ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES

Design of the Green Horizons Careers booklet The Green Horizons Careers booklet was was supported by a special grant from sponsored in part by the NYS Department of The F. A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company. Environmental Conservation.

Green Horizons is a collaborative educational project, sustained by the following:

environmental education advisory council MAGNOLIA TREE EARTH CENTER

For more information: visit www.MagnoliaTreeEarthCenter.com or www.eeac-nyc.org

© 2016 Magnolia Tree Earth Center of Bedford-Stuyvesant, Inc. Table of Contents Careers & Resources

PAGE 3 PAGE 11 PAGE 18 PAGE 25 Green Horizons is an annual collaborative event for middle school Exploring careers in Monitoring Gardening in Botanical Gardens, Solar Energy for the the environment and natural Air Quality Parks and the Community students, held each October at a site in one of the 5 boroughs Environment and Economy resources of City. Students, teachers and counselors who attend Atmospheric Horticulture Solar Energy learn about a wide variety of natural resource and environmental Letter to Students Science Production careers in a “hands-on” way, working closely with professionals who volunteer their time to share their expertise and enjoyment. PAGE 4 PAGE 12 PAGE 19 PAGE 26 The Green Horizons Careers booklet provides guidance beyond Defining Terms Exploring Geology and Designing a Plan Working in the Forest of the the actual event and will assist young people interested in the What is an the Earth’s History for the Land Urban Environment careers that are presented. It will be useful in choosing high schools, Urban Environment? Earth Science Landscape Urban Forestry curriculum subjects, internships, and, eventually, post-high school Architecture education or training.

Many thanks to the following institutions that have provided PAGE 6 PAGE 13 PAGE 20 PAGE 28 free or low-cost venues for the Green Horizons events over the Urban Finding and Water All Around! Helpful Resources past 20 years: Botanic Garden, Conservancy, Farming Researching Insects Marine Public High Schools New York , Botanical Garden, Agriculture Entomology Careers to Consider Snug Harbor/SI Botanical Garden and of the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation.

Green Horizons is made possible by the support of hundreds of PAGE 7 PAGE 14 PAGE 22 PAGE 29 volunteers each year and by the generous financial and in-kind Protecting Water Quality Building “Green” Weather Forecasting and Helpful Resources sponsorship of Con Edison of New York, The F. A. Bartlett Tree Expert Aquatic Ecology Structures Climate Change Research Colleges and Company, Davey Tree Expert Company and Davey Resource Group. and Environmental Environmental Meteorology and Universities Engineering Architecture Atmospheric Science

PAGE 8 PAGE 15 PAGE 23 PAGE 30 Planting and Caring for Teaching about Help for Birds and Helpful Resources Editor/Researcher: Nancy A. Wolf, JLN WOLF, Inc. Urban Trees the Environment Other Animals Designer: Leslie Kameny, Kameny Design Governmental Photos: , Con Edison, NYS Department of Arboriculture Environmental Ornithology, Zoology Agencies Environmental Conservation Education and Wildlife Management

Advisory Committee: Susan Gooberman, Environmental Education Consultant PAGE 10 PAGE 17 PAGE 24 PAGE 31 Mary Kramarchyk, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation Arbor Rx: Designing with Studying and Helpful Resources David McMaster, The F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company CSI for Healthy Trees Flowers Improving Soil Gregory Owens, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation Non-profit Mala Ruzi, Berta A. Dreyfus IS 49, Arboricultural Floriculture Soil Science Organizations Research Research

1 Dear Students:

Q. Do you like being outdoors? Do you enjoy science and math? How about geography and mapping and natural history? Have you partici- pated in tree-planting at school or at home or perhaps helped to create a flower or vegetable garden? Are you curious about plants or animals?

A. If the answer is “yes” to any or all of these questions, you may be interested in a career in the environment and natural resources. This booklet can be your guide.

We all live in an urban environment that is an exciting place to explore and discover. The careers described in the booklet focus on caring for our environment. Working in one of these jobs will allow you to help create more healthful surroundings and provide a better life for yourself and others. Though each one is described separately, many of the careers overlap; those working in the environmental field often work closely together.

Some of the careers described in the booklet are learned “on-the-job” right out of high school. Others require a professional certificate that can be earned in a year or two. Many of them, such as scientific research, require at least two or four years of college or even graduate school. As you learn more about careers that interest you, one important question will be: how much education do I need to prepare for this job?

In the booklet, there are also lists of high schools and colleges or universities you may want to consider attending. All of them offer courses that can be important and interesting to you. There are also lists of organizations and governmental agencies that provide up-to-date information. As you grow older, you may be able to find internships or summer jobs through the contacts we have provided.

Best of all, the jobs described in the booklet are here in this country. They will not be “out-sourced” or go away. They exist for the present and the future.

3 What is an Urban Environment?

You may want to think about making one of the careers described in the booklet a part of your future. But, first, you need to know what makes up the special urban environment we are all part of:

Closed landfills Parks used to dump its garbage Backyards and trash into large dumps at the city’s Parks are a big part of the urban environment The closest bit of nature may be the one edges. Often, these landfills destroyed and they provide us with many trees and right next to the front or back of your own house or wetlands that should have been protected. flowers, lakes and ponds, and places to play. apartment building. Investigate these spaces All our landfills are now closed and New York City has famous large parks, such for trees, shrubbery, flowers and urban wildlife, they are being turned into huge parks as Central and Prospect, but also many smaller such as birds and squirrels. and grasslands that help re-create some parks in neighborhoods across all boroughs. of the plants and habitats that once were there.

The Atlantic Ocean, Natural Woodlands Creeks and rivers The city also has many areas where trees and with hundreds of bays, The city has underground creeks that other plants have grown on their own. Some of them become visible as they empty into tidal lands and inlets. are remains of the landscape that was here before so surrounding waters. Our one real river is We have miles of shoreline, including many many buildings, streets and sidewalks were built. , an important food resource beaches that form our marine environment New trees and shrubs are now being planted in our and habitat for wildlife all along its path. which supports thousands of special plants and woodlands to create a healthier forest. animals that thrive in salty water.

Street trees Swamps, marshes and Thousands of trees are planted along our streets. stream banks They beautify our neighborhoods and provide Botanical gardens, These crucial wetlands provide very cooling shade in summertime. Birds and small community gardens, important habitats for birds and other creatures. Ambient Air mammals such as squirrels obtain food from them. and even cemeteries They are critical for control of water running off Last but not least is the ambient air the land and for protection from floods. As the trees take in carbon dioxide and put out These valuable areas provide a combination around us, which we take for granted but In addition, special low areas called curbside oxygen from their leaves, they help purify the air we of lawns, trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables which is essential for life. rain gardens are now being built along streets breathe. Street trees are planted by city agencies, by that create special environmental spaces. neighborhood groups or by individuals who just love and in parking lots to capture rainwater before trees and want to see more of them. it runs off into the sewers. Rain gardens can help provide water for street and park trees.

4 5 Urban Farming Protecting Water Quality and Supply Agriculture Aquatic Ecology and Environmental Engineering

Many parts of New York City used to Water Quality Scientists and Environ- be covered in farms and the produce urban farmer mental Engineers have crucial jobs in water quality scientist was sold in local markets. But, providing and protecting water for our gradually, the city’s land was sold to Many urban farmers got their start by urban environment. Abundant supplies of Supplies of clean water for large become part of business, industrial actively growing crops in community clean, potable water are a “must”; humans cities like New York City are overseen and housing developments and most gardens and decided to find enough and animals cannot live without water. by water quality scientists who find farms disappeared. Today, there are open land to grow many more. Plants cannot grow and survive without and monitor water sources. farm museums in Queens and Staten water. As cities and their surrounding areas Island that allow us to learn about the grew over the past 200 years, the demand ways successful farms were run in the have demonstration gardens staffed by for water increased. This demand is still state and federal governments have creat- “old days”. Modern farming can also Farmers or Horticulturists. growing today. ed laws and rules for clean water that must be learned at be followed. Regular samples of water are Some Farmers have even found space in Queens, which has special courses, taken and studied in labs to determine the to garden on rooftops. Using specially including the raising of small animals. cleanliness of the water at any point. prepared sites that can take the heavy Over the past few years, Farmers have load of soil and water, they have created Once good water supplies have been reappeared in New York and a new career businesses that support owners and identified,Environmental Engineers plan in Urban Farming has begun to succeed. employees and help provide food for and construct the system that brings the Many Farmers got their start by actively various restaurants and markets clean and monitored water to the users. In growing crops in community gardens the early days of New York City, people re- and decided to find enough open land to Supplies of clean water for large cities like lied on underground wells that were soon grow many more. They are growing food New York are overseen by Water Quality over-used. The water became polluted and for their own families, but often sell extra Scientists who find and monitor water was not safe. Today, like many other cities, produce at their garden sites or donate sources, either underground or by captur- we are able to obtain water through a to neighborhood organizations that help ing water from springs, creeks, lakes and huge system of reservoirs, aqueducts and distribute food to the community. rivers. These sources are brought together pipelines that bring supplies to the millions to provide drinking, bathing and cleaning of users, both at home and on the job. One successful urban farm is at Snug water for homes. They must also provide Environmental Engineers work constantly Harbor Cultural Center and Staten Another new farming technique is bring- essential water for business and industry on the system that already exists so that Island Botanical Garden; vegetables ing back fruit trees to the city in urban and for general public use. They are critical proper maintenance is in place. In addition, from this garden are marketed to small orchards. Re-creating stands of fruit trees for control of fires. they plan and construct new parts, such as restaurants and at a weekly farm stand. like cherry and apple that used to be part additional pipelines or treatment plants. Left-over produce is donated to Project of many neighborhoods has given an The water supplies must continually be Hospitality, an organization that helps additional way to succeed as a Farmer and tested to make sure that they are safe from Although most professionals who are in the needy. Other botanical gardens also offer fresh food to city dwellers. pollutants, so that illness is prevented. Both charge of providing clean water work for governmental agencies, there are also The city’s Green Markets have helped the jobs for Water Quality Scientists and “locavore” effort become larger, year by learn more online learn more online Environmental Engineers in private indus- year, with over 200 Farmers from the city SEARCH: Urban Agriculture, Farming, SEARCH: Water Quality Testing, Water try. Non-profit organizations that help the and nearby areas selling their products. Urban Orchards, Agronomy Supply Systems, Aquatic Science, public oversee clean water systems also Environmental Engineering employ these professionals.

6 7 Planting and Caring for Urban Trees Arboriculture

Arborists have special training in the science, planting and care of urban trees. arborist Many of them have studied at colleges or universities, but there are also “learning Most arborists work “in the field”, by doing” certifications from botanical meaning in parks or playgrounds or gardens, for example. Companies like on city streets. Bartlett Tree and Davey Tree accept applicants with high school diplomas and provide “on the job” training. jobs. They are then the “hands-on” people who actually help plant trees into Most Arborists work “in the field”, mean- selected sites. They know how large the ing in parks or playgrounds or on city tree pits should be, how wide and deep streets. They often advise homeowners to make the hole for planting, and how who want to plant trees in their yards. deeply to plant the tree. Then they make They work with Landscape Architects sure the trees’ roots are properly covered and construction companies that need and a mulch of wood chips or other trees to be planted around new or reno- organic material is applied. Many times, vated buildings. They work closely with they add stakes to the trees to help them Urban Foresters on many projects. stand upright during the first one or two years of growth. Some Arborists work for governmental agencies like the city Parks Department After the trees are planted, Arborists and or the state Conservation Department. Urban Foresters keep tending them. Many work in botanical gardens, such as They water them regularly, especially those in Brooklyn, Queens, and during the first two years, and keep Staten Island. Managers at special parks, track of any droughts that may reduce such as Central and Prospect, also employ rainwater needed for ongoing growth. Arborists. Non-profit organizations and During droughts, they often help to private companies, employ Arborists, organize public campaigns for citizens to as well. help water street trees.

Once the species of trees for planting From time to time, Arborists also prune have been chosen, Arborist, Urban the trees as they grow. They need to Foresters and Landscape Architects take off dead or dying limbs, eliminate often travel to plant nurseries to select branches that interfere with each other the best and healthiest trees for their and create more open space for light and air. They know that proper pruning helps trees to grow better and stronger and learn more online provide benefits for many years. SEARCH: Aboriculture, Urban Forestry

8 Arbor RX: CSI for Healthy Trees Monitoring Air Quality Arboricultural Research Atmospheric Science

Trees are an important part of our urban Air Quality Scientists are professionals environment, but they don’t always have arboricultural researcher who measure and monitor the air and air quality scientist an easy time surviving and thriving in the help us determine its safety. The ambient midst of so many buildings, with acres of Much of the success of urban air surrounding us is vital since we know They work often in labs, but also in concrete and miles of asphalt pavement. trees comes from the work of that clean air is necessary for our life and the outdoors, taking samples that Polluted city air makes it difficult for some arboricultural researchers who health. But certain types of pollutants will be analyzed and that form the of them to grow well. Sometimes they are highly trained scientists. have created problems – many of them basis for difficult decisions. aren’t watered enough during droughts or invisible by normal sight – and we know they may receive too much water in a rainy that breathing them for a long period of Air Quality Scientists work often in labs, season. But urban trees have proven to be before they fall and hurt someone or time can be unhealthy. Because air quality but also in the outdoors, taking samples hardy. Despite it all, we are able to enjoy a cause property damage. is so important, the federal and state that will be analyzed and that form the city with millions of beautiful trees in parks governments have special laws and rules basis for difficult decisions. For example, and playgrounds and along the streets. Arboricultural Researchers create test to help decide whether air in particular if a certain source is proven to create New York City has recently sponsored a sites in their outdoor labs and study the places is safe or not. harmful pollutants, the government may successful Million Trees Initiative, in which roots, trunks and branches to improve rule that it be shut down or changed so more than a million new trees have been the structures of trees and identify that it helps clean up the air. planted over the past few years. More will those specimens that show best growth. continue to be planted every year. They experiment with different planting Even if air quality is found to be safe for a techniques and test how specific trees particular area, we know that it is affected Much of the success of urban trees survive extremes, such as cold and heat. by air from around the world. Wind and comes from the work of Arboricultural They experiment with differing kinds air currents are world-wide, so pollutants Researchers. They are highly trained of soils and measure how much water from a smoke stack thousands of miles scientists who work for universities and various tree species may need to thrive. away can affect our air here. Air Quality in government agencies or for leading The results are written for publication in Air Quality Scientists are continuing to Scientists confer with others and share tree care companies. Their information printed materials and on the internet for develop methods to identify pollution data as they help to make decisions. They has helped Urban Foresters and practical use by those working in the field. and to measure its effects on the health often publish their findings in scientific Arborists learn to plant the right trees of humans, birds and other animals. They journals and on the Internet so they in the right sites and with the right tools Arboricultural Researchers are also use many instruments to capture the can be compared with findings in other and techniques. They learn better care relied upon for information about information for study in their labs. They places. This work helps the government of trees once they are planted, including insects and diseases that harm trees are guided by the air quality rules and it is review and sometimes change laws proper pruning. They are taught to by preventing good growth or perhaps their responsibility to share their research and regulations for clean air. Nations recognize trees that are diseased or causing their death. In addition to their and findings so that decisions can be are learning to work together on this possibly dying so they can remedy the own studies, they are often asked to determined if air in a certain place is safe important issue. situation or perhaps remove the trees diagnose these conditions through soil for people to breathe. and tissue samples sent to their labs. This information is valuable to all those learn more online working in urban forestry, arboriculture, learn more online horticulture and forestry, in printed SEARCH: Arboriculture, Arboricultural SEARCH: Measuring Air Quality, Research materials, online or by workshop Atmospheric Science, Climate Science presentations.

10 11 Exploring Geology and the Earth’s History Finding and Researching Insects Earth Science Entomology

Geologists study a special part of the Scientific research on all aspects of environment – the rocks that lie under the geologist natural life leads to many jobs that entomologist surface of Planet Earth. This is a fascinat- establish careers lasting a lifetime. One ing field that includes materials such as By studying rocks, geologists can focus of research is on insects, which are Most work for various governmental igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic also learn about the history of Earth, recognized as essential to life on Earth. agencies and their findings are rocks, as well as minerals and gemstones. providing important information on Entomologists with many levels of edu- shared world-wide, through Beautiful jewels that become rings and what life was like in ancient times. cation study all types of insects in their cooperation among nations. bracelets are found under the Earth. By habitats; today’s Entomologists study the studying rocks, Geologists can also learn past natural history and build on this with of animals, including helping to dispose about the history of Earth, providing them back to labs for observation. The new experiments and knowledge. of the remains of those who die. Insects important information on what life was American Museum of Natural History has such as termites also clean up waste like in ancient times. They often do their a large and important collection of rocks As a vital part of the Earth’s ecosystem, wood and other materials that otherwise studies as employees of a university or a that have been studied for many years insects have one of the longest life would cover the landscape. They are a museum or major science center. and are also in exhibits for anyone to see. histories on the planet. They inhabit sky, water and land and even combinations critical part of biology and ecology and Some Geologists are an important part of all three. As life evolved, some insects environmental management. of the work of construction companies became part of the life of plants; today, that plan and erect buildings, roads, many plants depend on insects for their Research by Entomologists is highly railroads and bridges. Nothing can be survival. Without insects to pollinate connected to the field of medicine, as put on top of the ground that cannot be them, most plants, including the food many serious diseases across the world supported by the land structures under- crops that we eat, will not be able to are caused by the bites or stings of neath. Geologists are often the ones who reproduce. Other insects may not survive insects. Likewise, agriculture and for- “go first” on major projects. without food from particular plants. estry are highly dependent on scientific information about what insects may help New York City is particularly interesting For instance, the Monarch butterfly or damage crops and trees. They need Geologists also play an important role for Geologists because there are so many depends on the food supply from certain help in knowing whether certain insects in energy development by identifying different types of rocks under the five milkweed plants. are helpful or destructive and how to deal the locations of fossil fuels (such as coal boroughs. One reason that so many very with them in an ecological way. and natural gas) and geothermal (under- high buildings can be erected in Manhat- Insects have also evolved with animals ground hot water) that can be accessed tan is because of the hard rock known such as mammals. Not only do some for use in heating and cooling buildings. insets provide animals with food, but they Most Entomologists work for various as schist that underlies so much of that governmental agencies and their borough. The whole city is at the end of can also be vectors of disease that may While some of the work that Geologists findings are shared world-wide, through the terminal moraine from the glacier be carried by those animals. Research by do is excavating or exploring caves, they cooperative arrangements among that covered much of New York about Entomologists especially helps to keep are also able to study above the ground, nations. Others are on the faculty of 10,000 years ago. The terminal moraine the urban environment safe, where so on rocky cliffs or by just picking up stones universities and colleges, which often is the expanse of boulders and rocky soil many people live closely together. Insects wherever they are found and bringing also play a major part in the life cycles have their own outdoor research that was left behind as the glacier melted. properties. Valuable information and You can see some of the huge boulders discoveries are shared in this network, as learn more online left from the glacier in the Brooklyn learn more online well. Trained Entomologists also work Botanic Garden and Van Cortlandt Park in for corporations whose work requires the SEARCH: Geology, Coal, Natural Gas, the Bronx. SEARCH: Entomology, Insects Geothermal Energy control or elimination of harmful insects.

12 13 Building “Green” Structures Teaching about the Environment Environmental Architecture Environmental Education

A career in architecture requires a great Science has always been a part of educa- deal of special training in design and in environmental architect tion and teachers have taught it in many environmental educator construction. With few exceptions, most ways. Environmental Educators are new buildings require a licensed architect They are leading architects and the teachers who are creating new ways of They plan “hands-on” lessons, to create detailed plans and have them building industry to understand that teaching that help students understand where students learn by their own approved by a local governmental agency. houses and buildings can be built in the connections to their real life and their discoveries, as well as from books In many cases, renovations or changes in harmony with the environment. surroundings. Teachers and students are and computer information. older buildings also require these plans. part of teams that seek to observe and Plans will include how large the building understand the natural life of their indoor will be, how many rooms or other spaces are energy-efficient and often will auto- and outdoor environment and how to make records of their observations to will be created and what materials, such matically turn off when not in use. On the make it better and sustain it. take back to the classroom. as steel, bricks or concrete, will hold it up outside, they choose weather-resistant Other field trips take place in the neigh- and make it secure. roof and wall materials that will hold up Environmental Educators plan “hands- borhood, where students observe trees under sun and rain. They can design gutter on” lessons, where students learn by that are planted on the streets, or study Environmental Architects are leading systems that controls rain water to lead their own discoveries, as well as from and map the “built environment” of other architects and the building industry into an irrigation system for the surround- books and computer information. sidewalks, fences or walls that may be in the recognition that houses and ing landscape. They design “green roofs”, They have classroom terrariums or fish covered with plants or create homes for other buildings can be built in harmony particularly for large buildings, where tanks for daily observation. They may with ecology and the surrounding special plants capture water and keep the measure weather and temperature by environment. Their work focuses on building cooler. Sometimes these “green mounting thermometers or barometers identifying special designs and building roofs” can be used for growing food. at schoolroom windows. They actively materials. They design construction save paper, plastic or metals for recycling plans that help new houses, apartment Buildings that are designed with environ- and learn about the problems of waste buildings and other structures save mental choices may cost more because disposal. They visit the school boiler room energy and result in healthier conditions of the special materials that are used. to learn about how the building is cooled for those who live or work in them. However, the energy savings over time of- or heated. ten help to pay back the extra costs. For Environmental Architects choose example, solar collectors can help owners Many lessons in environmental educa- insects or other tiny creatures. No matter windows and doors that block out both pay less for electricity and even receive tion take place outdoors on field trips. how urban it may be, nature will be there cold and hot air and save indoor energy. payments or credits for electricity that Sometimes, students travel to parks or in some way. They choose plumbing that limits they provide to the electric company. woodlands or beaches to study plants water use. Solar panels often contribute that grow there or animals that live on Many Environmental Educators teach to heating systems and save fuels or the The work of Environmental Architects land or in the water. They are discovering in schools as regular teachers. Others, use of electricity. Special lighting fixtures has been nationally recognized. The US the plants or animals as they live in their who have special training, teach at Building Council has created certificates own environment or habitat. The students environmental centers in parks or sum- under a program called Leadership mer camps. Many work for governmental learn more online in Energy and Environmental Design agencies or for non-profit organizations. (LEED). Depending on a specific building learn more online Environmental education has been SEARCH: Architecture, Environmental plan, it can be designated as a Platinum recognized as an important part of the Architecture, Energy Conservation, SEARCH: Environmental Education, or Gold LEED building and receive state education of every student. Building Design Teaching about the Environment or federal tax credits.

14 15 Designing with Flowers Floriculture

Floriculturists may work as Horticulturists in botanical gardens or parks or museums. floriculturist They are responsible for the design of exhibits that illustrate themes from Many are responsible for the design nature or literature or the art world. of exhibits that illustrate themes from In good weather, the exhibits may be nature or literature or the art world. outdoors and feature plants such as a rose collection or designs of shrubbery. Exhibits may also be designed for indoors, such as in a greenhouse, and these are customers who are purchasing flowers especially popular at winter holiday time. or other plants for their own homes or gardens. Most of the plants are in pots or New York City’s botanical gardens large containers and all of these must be offer outstanding examples of the carefully tended as part of the job. work of design through floriculture and horticulture. During the Thanksgiving/ Floriculturists working in centers or Christmas season, the New York Botanical shops often have special training in Garden’s Train Show in its greenhouse floral design, which can be learned features model trains running through on-the-job or by taking certificate lessons a “landscape” all made of plants. At the at botanical gardens. They prepare Staten Island Botanical Garden, designers bouquets or wreaths that people need from China have created a “Scholars’ for special occasions, such as weddings, Garden” for meditation. The Queens graduations or memorial services. Often, Botanical Garden has a special wedding they are advising on purchases of flowers garden with chosen plants that relate for customers to take home and arrange to this celebration. At the Brooklyn themselves. This career is one that Botanic Garden, there is a Shakespeare offers many types of jobs for those Garden featuring all the plants mentioned with high school diplomas or with in his plays. additional training.

Many other Floriculturists are employed in retail nurseries, garden centers or small flower shops located in many neighborhoods. They work directly with learn more online

SEARCH: Horticulture, Floriculture, Nurseries and Garden Centers

17 Gardening in Botanical Gardens, Parks and the Community Designing a Plan for the Land Horticulture Landscape Architecture

Gardeners love working directly in the Landscape Architects combine art, soil and creating spaces for beautiful horticulturist mapping and knowledge about plants landscape architect flowers or other plants. Even in our urban to create designs for new spaces in environment, almost everyone can be Horticulturists work on a the urban environment. Or they may They combine art, mapping and a Gardener, even if it’s only in a small year-round schedule that follows re-design spaces where the use of the knowledge about plants to create backyard or courtyard or in containers on the seasons. land will be changed. They often work designs for spaces in the urban a fire escape. closely with Urban Foresters and Soil environment. Scientists as large city projects are Those who choose a career as a Gardener prepared. or Horticulturist often work for the Parks As plants grow, Horticulturists must tend Department in parks across the city. Some to them regularly, especially by watering. Landscape Architects also team with work for the Housing Authority or for Very few plants can thrive if they do not builders who are planning large office private developers, helping create gardens receive the right amount of water, either buildings or apartment houses and with around the City’s many large buildings. through good rainfall or by special “soak- those who want to build or renovate a Many others work in botanical gardens in er” hoses or by hand. As Horticulturists family home. all five boroughs. Some work for private know, some plants survive very well with After the buildings are erected, they companies or for organizations that little water, but many others need a great create the design for new trees, shrubs sponsor community gardens. deal, even several times a week. They also and flowers that will surround the outside. One large project in New York City where prune the plants at specific times that Horticulturists work on a year-round Builders and home-owners help with the Landscape Architects employed by the help them grow better over time. schedule that follows the seasons. In design as it is prepared. Parks Department are working is Fresh early spring, they remove mulch and Kills Park in Staten Island. Fresh Kills was other materials that have covered the Landscape Architects then order the once a huge landfill, where garbage and planting area and begin turning the soil trees, shrubs and flowers and supervise trash from around the city were deposit- to make the beds ready for seeds or for the planting of what has been chosen. ed each day. Several years ago, Fresh Kills plants that are moved from greenhouses They work closely with Arborists in this was closed as a landfill. Now Landscape or other indoor spaces. Some plants part of their jobs. They help to create Architects are working to create a park may have been “over-wintered” indoors green infrastructure that respects the that will be one of the city’s largest green in containers or Horticulturists may environment and helps to improve it. and open spaces. propagate new plants through cuttings During the winter, Horticulturists focus Community gardens are also sites for and grafting. Under the soil may be bulbs on plants that grow indoors, in pots or the work of Landscape Architects. As or roots of flowers or vegetables that are planters or in specially prepared areas in community activists adopt un-used and ready to grow in the new season. The greenhouses. Their work with Floricul- neglected lots in their neighborhoods, they bulbs may have been planted a long time turists through the winter helps to create often need professional advice in planning ago and will grow year after year or they special exhibits at holiday time, or provide what should be designed and planted. may have been planted in the previous fall. ongoing green beauty when the outdoor landscape is in its dormancy, learn more online learn more online SEARCH: Landscape Architecture SEARCH: Horticulture, Gardening

18 19 Water All Around! Marine Careers

New York City is surrounded by water: the Atlantic Ocean, and many marine scientists other inlets, the Upper and Lower Harbor, Their focus on the protection of the the and (not true water environment and its vast wildlife rivers, but bodies of connecting water), requires study beyond high school, with and, of course, the mighty . All these waters are emphasis on science and math. salty or brackish, which is a combination of salt and fresh water. The exception is the fresh-water Bronx River, flowing group of jobs that don’t always demand south through the Bronx to the Sound. many years of in-school study. Many of these are “learn on the job” careers, such With this huge marine resource, many as Deckhands or Engineers on all sorts environmental careers are possible, of harbor boats, Captains or “Skippers” including Marine Science Biologist or who guide vessels both large and small, Ecologist, based on biology and zoology, and Technical Specialists, who are trained Marine Geologist, exploring the effects in special skills such as Diving or Marine on the water from the earth under the Rescue. And, as you know from watching bottom, and Marine Conservationist, the news on TV, many heroic rescues are whose work focuses on the protection necessary in the harbor every year, of the water environment and its vast mainly from specially trained Police or wildlife. All of these careers demand Firefighters. extensive work beyond high school, with the focus on science and math. You have many opportunities to observe all these jobs and more by visiting the Many other careers, such as those in hundreds of waterfront piers, which serve Architecture, Archeology, Hydrology both for pleasure boats and for commer- and Professional Engineering, can also cial uses. You may go out on one of the focus on the marine environment. These many fishing boats yourself, or cruise on careers, which require higher education, the old-fashioned sailing ships at South also connect to part of a much larger Street Seaport in . One of the best and easiest ways to learn about jobs on boats is to ride the Staten Island Ferry, learn more online observing the Pilots on the high bridge SEARCH: Marine Science, Marine and the Crew helping to manage the Geology, Marine Architecture, huge boat. Marine Archeology, Marine Engineering, Hydrology, Motorboats, Sailboats

20 Weather Forecasting and Climate Change Research Help for Birds and Other Animals Meteorology and Atmospheric Ornithology, Zoology and Wildlife Science Management

Meteorologists are scientists who study Ornithologists and Zoologists are highly the atmosphere and the effects of major meteorologist trained scientists who focus on research- ornithologist and air currents, temperature, wind, rain, and ing animals, such as birds and mammals. zoologist snow around our planet. From ancient Professionals have high-level Their work is part of a long natural history, times, people have always observed degrees in science and often work and is important in the understanding Most are highly trained scientists who the weather every day and there have for major governmental agencies of evolution and ecology. Many of them focus on researching animals, such as been continual efforts to understand and as researchers in universities. started as children by closely observing birds and mammals. and predict it better. Great advances in birds, domestic or wild animals or farm knowledge have come in the past 200 animals. Through advanced education, years with the development of new data and Atmospheric Administration and their knowledge and skills have helped specialize in observation of animals in and instruments. Research is continuing as researchers in universities and them combine their work with that of captivity. They must stay in contact with in every country around the globe. colleges. Private companies also employ biologists and ecologists other scientists, both near and far, to Meteorologists and information is study these populations together. They You may be most familiar with Meteorol- often shared. Since local weather and Professional Ornithologists and pay special attention to habitat – the ogists as the weather forecasters on TV climate are influenced by what happens Zoologists use old and new knowledge places where birds and other wild animals or on the radio. The best of these have in many other areas, it is important for and technical information to advance live. studied the science in a serious way and Meteorologists to understand the “big their research. The science of observation have been given the “Seal of Approval” by picture” around the world. and study became more professional Many Ornithologists and Zoologists the American Meteorological Society and about 250 years ago, as more people also work for governmental agencies or the National Weather Association. Weather forecasting by Meteorologists began exploring parts of the world that for large private scientific companies. is not only relied upon by all of us as we held thousands of species they had never In addition, there are certain non-profit decide whether or not to take an umbrella seen. Swedish scientist Carl Linnaeus organizations that provide jobs for when we go out. Farmers and many developed a system for identifying each Ornithologists or Zoologists. Two that business people are greatly affected by bird or animal by its own special name. are well-known are the National Audubon weather patterns and need correct and By the late 19th century, his system was Society and the World Wildlife Fund. long-range information in order to plan in wide use and many technical aids were Their combined knowledge has been their activities. Weather often dictates also developed. success or failure. crucial in counting birds and other Most professional Ornithologists animals to identify those with such small However, professional Meteorologists In New York City and in many other and Zoologists work at colleges and populations that they are in danger of have high-level degrees in science and places, there is an increased understand- universities or at science centers in extinction. We now have the categories often work for major governmental ing that climate and weather conditions museums or zoos. Much of their work is of “endangered” or “threatened”, where agencies such as the National Oceanic are changing, which may lead to more outdoors, as Wildlife Managers, tracking much care is needed to try to bring back frequent storms and flooding. New wild creatures who, of course, don’t stay and guarantee a larger population for the Yorkers saw these conditions in Hurricane in one place. At their work in zoos, they future. One success was the saving of the learn more online Sandy in the fall of 2013. The work of Peregrine falcon – a bird that has found Meteorologists is becoming ever more good nesting spots on New York City SEARCH: Meteorology, Atmospheric learn more online bridges. Science, Climate Science important. SEARCH: Ornithology, Zoology, Wildlife Management

22 23 Studying and Improving Soil Solar Energy for the Environment and Economy Soil Science Research Solar Energy Production

Soil Science Researchers study the soil Heat energy from the sun has always been in which our trees and other plants grow. soil science researcher a crucial part of life. In modern times, we solar energy producer Their work requires a deep knowledge are learning how to capture it for more of science and geology. Soil Science With a deep knowledge of science specific use, especially in buildings. The Heat energy from the sun has always Researchers often work for colleges or and geology, they often work for development of solar energy is growing been a crucial part of life, and now we universities, but also for governmental universities, governmental agencies and will replace some of the use of fuels are capturing it for more specific use. agencies or private companies. or private companies. such as coal, oil and gas, though they are also expected to continue as part of our place. They provide the “up-front” money Soil is not “dirt”. It’s the all-important country’s energy mix. surface of the earth that is based on rock, to break them up. Sometimes, they may to make establishment of businesses but is slowly changed by the effects of advise that certain soils will not support Solar Energy is now being planned for use possible. As sales of products develop, water, air and living and dead organisms. successful growth. in new construction and in renovations of they expect their businesses to create Depending on how it’s created, soil can older buildings. In many cases, the plans profits and survive. Jobs are available in allow trees and other plants to grow call for solar collectors to be put on roofs or the companies as they develop. well. But sometimes it may not have the near structures and are then connected to Designers must be part of the business to proper mixture to sustain healthy growth. electrical energy use or for heating water create plans that are based on science and Soil Science Researchers study the types in water tanks or in furnace boilers for heat. math that will successfully capture the heat of soil by conducting surveys that sample Most of the collection systems are connect- energy of the sun and transfer it elsewhere soil in the ground, itself, through field ed to the electrical power grid from large to be used. studies that often involve digging beds companies that supply electricity. New and (large, deep holes) in the soil. They look growing businesses are being established Electrical, Structural, Mechanical and at layers of soil for color, texture, mixture Soil Science Researchers may also test as solar energy continues to be captured. Environmental Engineers take the designs of minerals and location. They study the how much water is in the soil or how and turn them into detailed plans for the chemical pH in the soil to see if it is acid much water the soil can hold when water manufacturing and installation of products or alkaline. They continue their studies in is added to it. Some trees, for example, such as solar collectors and the systems laboratories. thrive in soil that has a lot of water. that transfer the heat energy to uses such Others may die if there is too much water as heating water or providing heat for Depending on what they find, Soil around their roots. homes and office buildings. Science Researchers may advise others caring for the urban environment to add In addition to their field work, Soil Manufacturers make the products that will items to the soil to make it better. This Science Researchers need to be good capture the heat energy of the sun and could include organic fertilizer, decaying writers because they need to share their Entrepreneurs are people who decide to transfer it to water heaters and furnaces leaves or plant stems or other once-living findings with others, such as Foresters, create private companies that will offer or boilers. Once the products are avail- matter that will release nutrients that Arborists, Gardeners and Farmers, solar collectors and other hardware for sale able, Salespersons, usually working for are essential for plant growth. They may whose work depends on good soils. to the public as building designs are put in Manufacturers or Entrepreneurs, will then advise that caked soils need sand added They often work closely with the offer them for sale to the public for use in community as plans for successful constructions. growth are put in place. learn more online learn more online SEARCH: Solar Energy, Solar Design, A wide variety of careers is being SEARCH: Soil Science Solar Engineering, Environmental developed in this new and growing field. Engineering, Entrepreneur

24 25 Working in the Forest of the Urban Environment Urban Forestry Helpful Resources

Urban Foresters work in the urban forests of street and park trees. They look urban forester Public High Schools to Consider at the “big picture”. They take the lead They take the lead in how urban in how urban forests should be designed Colleges and Universities and managed to improve the quality of forests should be designed and life where people live. They study written managed to improve the quality of information and maps to see where life where people live. Governmental Agencies open green spaces and trees already exist and identify new areas that might be planned and planted. They often work As Urban Foresters plan their work, they Non-profit Organizations for governmental agencies, and also for often meet in public meetings to explain private companies. their projects to the community and get local advice. Or they visit schools to help Urban Foresters work outdoors to students and teachers become part of conduct a tree inventory that tells them their projects. exactly where, how many and what kind of trees are already growing on city streets and in other green spaces. To record this information, they use hand-held computers and other technical devices, but at other times it’s plain old pencil and paper. Interested citizens, including students, often help take the inventory.

The information received helps Urban Urban Foresters then work with other Foresters understand where to plant Foresters, Arborists and Landscape new trees on streets or in parks or Architects to select the best trees for the playgrounds. They also are able to sites and arrange for them to be planted. identify trees that are dead or diseased and need to be removed. Removals open Last, but not least, Urban Foresters plan up spots for new trees to be planted. how the newly planted trees will be cared All this information is added to the for, especially the need for regular water- information and maps they already have ing and pruning. Citizens are often asked in place. to help with regular watering of newly planted trees. learn more online

SEARCH: Urban Forestry, City Planning

26 Helpful Resources Helpful Resources Public High Schools to Consider Colleges and Universities

Some of the following high schools have the environment as their focus. Others There are colleges and universities in New York State and in the New York City feature special environmental or natural resources programs as part of a larger Metropolitan Area that are well-known for programs in the environment and natural school. All are part of the public school system and are open to students from resources. Listed is a small selection that you may want to learn more about. all boroughs. However, some of them require taking a special test to qualify for admission.

PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Bronx Bronx High School of Science Cobleskill, NY State University of New York (SUNY) Mott Hall Bronx High School Doylestown, PA Delaware Valley University Urban Assembly School for Wildlife Conservation Farmingdale, NY State University of New York (SUNY) Brooklyn Academy for Conservation and the Environment Hoboken, NJ Stevens Institute of Technology Brooklyn Academy of Science and the Environment Ithaca, NY Cornell University Brooklyn Technical High School Morrisville, NY State University of New York (SUNY) Edward R. Murrow High School New Brunswick, NJ Rutgers University Green School: An Academy for Environmental Careers New York, NY City University of New York (CUNY) Leon M. Goldstein High School for the Sciences at Kingsborough Senior Colleges: Lehman, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island Community College City University of New York (CUNY) School () Community College: Kingsborough Rachel Carson High School for Coastal Studies Paul Smiths, NY Paul Smiths College (Adirondack Mountains) Manhattan Academy for Environmental Leadership (LEAF of Nature State College, PA Penn State University Conservancy) Stony Brook, NY State University of New York (SUNY) Academy of Urban Planning (LEAF of Nature Conservancy) Syracuse, NY SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry High School for Environmental Studies at Syracuse University Stephen T. Mather Building Arts & Craftsmanship High School Stuyvesant High School Urban Assembly School for Green Careers Queens Expeditionary Schools in Queens and Staten Island Grover Cleveland High School John Bowne High School Staten Expeditionary Schools in Queens and Staten Island Island Staten Island Technical High School

28 29 Helpful Resources Governmental Agencies and Non-profit Organizations

The following governmental agencies and nonprofit organizations can be helpful to NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS high school students in their studies. Their websites will direct you to their own infor- mation and provide other sites for exploration. Bronx Bronx River Alliance New York Botanical Garden These agencies and organizations oversee major outdoor and indoor facilities that you New York Wildlife Conservation Society () may visit for more learning or for enjoyment. These include parks and outdoor instal- lations in all boroughs, as well as botanical gardens and other sites. They also sponsor Sustainable South Bronx programs and projects that you may join. Brooklyn Brooklyn Botanic Garden Conservancy Governmental agencies and nonprofit organizations also provide internships during the school year or during the summer, though the numbers may be limited. In some cases, Magnolia Tree Earth Center of Bedford-Stuyvesant there will be a small stipend. Most of the internships will be able to offer you credit Alliance toward a high school diploma or provide useful information for college applications. Queens Alley Pond Environmental Center All those on the list may be best accessed by searching their websites on the Internet. New York Museum of Science Queens Botanical Garden Manhattan American Museum of Natural History GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES Central Park Conservancy City New York City Department of Parks & Recreation Cornell University Cooperative Extension – NYC Agencies New York City Department of Environmental Protection Green Guerillas New York City Department of Transportation GrowNYC State New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Horticultural Society of New York Agencies New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Preservation Ecology Center Federal United States Environmental Protection Agency New York City Audubon Agencies US Department of Agriculture/Forest Service New York Restoration Project US Department of the Interior/Parks Service Trees New York Nature Center Staten Island Botanical Garden at Snug Harbor Staten Island Science Museum

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