Volunteer Member - Conservation Advisory Commission (CAC)

The Town of Poughkeepsie Conservation Advisory Council

(CAC) is seeking committed residents to serve as volunteer

advisors supporting the Town’s environmental stewardship, land

use decision making, and long term community resilience.

The CAC advises the Town Board, Planning Board, and other

municipal bodies on environmental protection, conservation, and

sustainable planning.

The Council also helps translate policy ideas into practical, funded projects that protect natural

resources, strengthen local systems, and improve quality of life for residents.

We welcome applicants from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Individuals who bring

practical insight, systems thinking, and a desire to move ideas into implementation are especially

encouraged to apply.

Key Focus Areas

• Water, air, and public health protection, including road salt reduction
• Land conservation, open space protection, and ecological land management
• Biodiversity, pollinator protection, and habitat connectivity
• Solid waste reduction, composting, and circular resource systems
• Food security, ecological regeneration, and green job development
• Community, economic, and ecological resilience through integrated systems

Volunteer Responsibilities

• Participate in monthly CAC meetings and subcommittees
• Support community outreach, education, and engagement initiatives
• Review development and land use proposals with environmental considerations
• Advise Town boards and staff on environmental and resilience issues
• Assist in identifying funding opportunities and supporting grant development
• Help advance projects from concept through implementation

Meetings are held on Zoom during the winter months and in person or hybrid for the remainder of

the year.

Skills and Experience We Seek

• Environmental policy, planning, zoning, or municipal governance
• Natural resources, environmental science, or land use
• Grant writing, funding development, or project management
• Solid waste systems, composting, or circular economy approaches
• Habitat restoration, pollinators, or conservation practice
• Community outreach, education, communications, or media
• Research, data analysis, or systems planning
• Workforce development, green jobs, or economic resilience

We strongly encourage participation from young adults, students, long time residents, newcomers,

and historically underrepresented communities. Lived experience and local knowledge are highly

valued.

Desired Qualities

• Engaged, reliable, and collaborative
• Positive focus and action oriented
• Comfortable communicating with Town officials and the public

Qualifications

• Residency in the Town of Poughkeepsie
• Interest in environmental protection, community well being, or public service
• Willingness to commit time as a volunteer

Why Serve

• Shape the environmental and economic future of the Town
• Protect land, water, wildlife, and public health
• Support ecological regeneration and green job creation
• Gain experience in municipal governance
• Make a tangible difference in your community

How to Apply

Please submit a brief letter of interest and a short resume or summary of experience to:

Town of Poughkeepsie Conservation Advisory Commission (CAC)

ToPOKCAC@gmail.com

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled.