Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania

Internship Program at Morris Arboretum

Natural Lands

Description

The Hay Honey Farm Endowed Natural Lands Intern receives hands-on training in all phases of garden development and care of the Living Collection, primarily those plants located on the historic 65-acre Bloomfield Farm property. Bloomfield, a farm in name only, is a largely naturalistic landscape that includes cultivated gardens, research plots, meadows, floodplain, privately administered community gardens, woody plant nursery, Quercetum, green roofs, platinum LEED certified Horticulture Center, historic grist mill, and the Arboretum’s materials handling site. Emphasis is placed on refining practical horticultural skills and the safe use and care of small and large power equipment; supervisory skills are developed by directing the activities of volunteers and seasonal employees.

Additionally, a small percentage of time is spent in the Natural Areas of the public garden, which includes wetlands, meadows, and wooded areas featuring a deer exclosure and native plants.

Duties and Responsibilities

Learn practical nursery digging concepts, proper planting techniques and turf care basics
Learn to properly identify weeds and implement control methods
Demonstrate pruning skills using CODIT philosophy and assist in formative pruning of the Arboretum's plant collection
Demonstrate knowledge of proper pesticide use--handling, mixing, applying and clean up of pesticide equipment
Take part in watering plants and containers on a rotating weekend schedule
Participate in the Horticulture Department's project days once a month
Help with snow removal
Learn to operate the following garden machinery:
Small Equipment Operation - push mower, string trimmer, leaf blower, snow thrower
Large Equipment Operation - golf cart, riding mower, backhoe, tractor, dump truck
Arborist Equipment Operation - chainsaw, chipper
Complete an independent study project under the direction of your supervisor
Work one afternoon in the Arboretum's Plant Clinic per week
Participate in intern core curriculum sessions as scheduled
Perform additional duties as requested

Qualifications/Requirements

A strong academic background in horticulture, environmental studies or closely related field
A strong academic background in horticulture, environmental studies or closely related field
Be able and willing to communicate with Arboretum visitors
Be able and willing to work independently and as part of a team
Be able and willing to work in all weather conditions
Be able and willing to lift at least 25 lbs
A valid driver's license is required

Work Environment

The Natural Lands Internship is a hands-on program that assists in the care of maintenance of the Arboretum's extensive collection of accessioned plants. Year-round outdoor work is required. Spring through Fall, priorities include planting, mowing, weed control, watering, and protection of new plantings from deer. Winter tasks include pruning, brush clearing, meadow mowing, snow removal, and completion of an individual internship project.