Submitted by Jennifer Sowerwine on
The Klamath River Basin (extending 250 miles through Southern Oregon and Northern California to the Pacific Ocean) is one of the most ecologically diverse ecosystems in the western United States, yet tribal populations and rural communities residing there are among the poorest and most food insecure in the country. A 5-year collaboration (2012-2017) between the University of California, local tribes, the US Forest Service and area community organizations, has sought to achieve a sustainable food system in the Klamath Basin that results in healthy communities, healthy ecosystems and healthy economies among the Karuk, Yurok and Klamath Tribes. Over the course of 5 years, we have implemented a number of tribal-directed food security activities including foodshed classes, workshops, educational initiatives, field trips, after school programs, farmers' markets, and others. We are now in our 5th year of the project, and are beginning an in depth evaluation of the impact of the project on individuals and communities among the Karuk, Yurok and Klamath Tribes. One of the evaluation tools will be conducting phone call surveys with Tribal residents in the Klamath to assess the impact of the program on their household or community well being.
Conduct telephone interviews/surveys with tribal residents in the Klamath and collect data on the impact of the tribal food security grant on their family and community. The survey contains approximately 15 questions - some are multiple choice responses, but many are open ended questions with opportunity for narrative response. Students will enter data real-time into a google form survey form. If all interviews are completed, they will have the opportunity summarize the data and report back to the research team the results of the survey.
Experience with phone interviews strongly preferred. Ability listen to and type up interview responses quickly. Strong attention to detail and accuracy. Friendly demeanor on the phone. Interest and familiarity with participatory research, food security, equity, justice and California Tribes a plus. Ability to attend training and mentorship period, as well as ability to work independently and follow through with assigned tasks is critical. Once student has developed fluency with interview protocol, there may be an option to conduct survey calls off-campus.