CONTRACTORS with experience in river bank management are being invited to apply for the position of River Keeper with the North York Moors National Park Authority.
The post involves working with the authority's River Esk Project Officer to improve conditions for fresh water pearl mussels, salmon, sea trout and other riparian species in the Upper Esk.
The position is subject to the National Park Authority suc
cessfully obtaining external funding and would be for two years from autumn 2009 to autumn 2011, with the possibility of a one year extension should sufficient funds and work be available.
The work will include small scale bank stabilisation including willow weaving, tree planting, small scale fencing works, treatment of Japanese knotweed and management of bankside vegetation.
It is thought that increasing levels of sedimentation in the river is causing the young mussels to die.
As a result, the Esk's population of mussels is ageing, and is likely to become extinct in the next 25-30 years unless action is taken.
Formerly widespread and abundant in England and Wales, its numbers have severely declined with most former populations now virtually extinct.
Simon Hirst, the authority's River Esk project officer, said: "The River Esk Project is looking at a variety of measures to decrease sedimentation in the Esk, including working with farmers to fence riverbanks and improve stock watering facilities.
"The management of bankside vegetation and areas of eroding riverbank also need to be addressed and we are looking for someone with an understanding of what is appropriate and what will work effectively."
Further information on the position and how to apply can be obtained from Simon Hirst by calling (01439) 770657, emailing s.hirst@northyorkmoors-npa.gov.uk or can be downloaded from the jobs and volunteers section of the authority's website at www.moors.uk.net
Quotations for the work must be submitted by 19 March.
