NPS Visitor and Resource Protection
The Morning Report
Friday, August 31, 2012


INCIDENTS

Southeast Region
Remnants Of Isaac Bring Heavy Inland Rains

The remnants of Isaac, now over Arkansas, will bring heavy rain and the threat of flash flooding as the system moves north and then northeastward over the weekend. For additional information on hydrological forecasts, go to NOAA's Hydrometeorological Prediction Center's web page. Here's today's park status report:

  • Gulf Islands NS – The Mississippi District, including all mainland and inland facilities, remained closed yesterday due to ongoing tropical storm conditions. District staff were instructed to remain at home. Staff in the Florida District returned to work yesterday to begin condition assessments and cleanup operations. Despite persistent high wind gusts, some progress was made in removing sand from the Fort Pickens roadway.  Sand removal was started at the visitor use facilities at Perdido Key but had to stop due to the high winds. Significant road damage was confirmed along the main westbound traffic lane in five areas along Highway 399 (J. Earle Bowden Way) within the park's Santa Rosa Area. Initial assessments indicate no damages to buildings and other facilities within the district, including the Fort Pickens, Naval Live Oaks, Perdido Key, and Santa Rosa areas. Power is also intact within all Florida District areas. Post-storm cleanup is expected to continue within the Florida District through today and into the weekend. The Naval Live Oaks and Fort Barrancas visitor centers reopened yesterday, but trails in these areas did not reopen due to the inability to assess for snags due to the high winds.  The Perdido Key Area is scheduled to reopen today.  The Fort Pickens Area, including the campground, concession operations, trails and other visitor use areas, is not expected to reopen before September 7th due to inaccessibility from high concentrations of sand on the roadway. The Santa Rosa Area, including the Opal Beach Area, is expected to remain closed for an indefinite period due to significant damages to Highway 399. Post-storm condition assessments will be conducted today in the Davis Bayou/mainland area. Condition assessments and site visits for island areas, including Horn Island and West Ship Island, will likely not be possible until Sunday, after storm surge, high seas and other weather conditions have fully abated.
  • Natchez Trace Parkway – The parkway was closed yesterday from Mile Marker 145 to the highway's southern terminus – a distance of 145 miles – due to falling branches and downed trees. The storm was still in full force when this report was made on Thursday and it was deemed probable that more trees would fall before it cleared the area. The park hoped to begin a damage assessment late yesterday.
  • Jean Lafitte NHP – The park remained closed on Thursday. Power remains out in many areas, but so far employees have not reported any problems. If the weather abated sufficiently, the plan was to begin a damage assessment late yesterday; if not, it will begin this morning.
  • Natchez NHP – The park reports some limbs down, but no trees and no building damage. Cleanup will begin today.
  • Vicksburg NMP – The park was closed late on Wednesday and remained closed yesterday. Trees and limbs are down. The storm was still in full force at the time of the report and additional tree damage was anticipated.
  • Cane River Creole NHP – Isaac caused only minimal damage and flooding. All park staff will return to duty today. A thorough assessment will be completed in the morning, and, if circumstances permit, the park will reopen at noon.

The Eastern IMT remains on standby to report to any park or parks needing assistance after the storm's passage.




Minute Man National Historical Park (MA)
Firefighters Suppress Blaze In Historic Home

On the afternoon of August 25th, a fire ignited on the roof of The Wayside, the historic home of Nathaniel Hawthorne and other authors on Lexington Road in Concord. Heat from the fire tripped a heat detector located in the attic of the structure and activated the fire alarm and fire suppression systems.  A sprinkler head in the attic within about eight feet of the fire also activated and sprayed the interior of the attic in the proximity of the fire and doused the burning roof. The Concord Fire Department responded and arrived within a few minutes of the alarm and sprinkler activation. They were soon joined by engines from nearby Lincoln and Bedford. Firefighters ventilated the eaves and doused the flames, then shut off the sprinkler system. The fire was contained within an area of the roof about five feet by four feet across; damage from the fire and roof ventilation was limited to that area. Water damage to the building extends to the two rooms directly below the fire. The process of covering the hole in the roof and protecting curatorial objects, including furniture and wall hangings in the affected rooms, began immediately after the fire department gave the all clear to reenter the building. A crew consisting of maintenance employees and interpretive and protection rangers worked into the evening to dry the interior and protect furnishings. The suppression system was then recharged. Damage has been estimated at between $30,000 and $50,000. The cause of the fire is under investigation, but believed to have been related to an electrical source.
[Submitted by Bill Brooks, Chief Ranger]




Denali National Park & Preserve (AK)
Investigation Underway Into Fatal Bear Attack

Following two days of rain and poor weather conditions, rangers were able to return to the site of the fatal bear attack on Tuesday to continue the investigation of the incident. They were able to determine where Richard White of San Diego had taken the images that were found in his digital camera. The initial photos of the bear were shot at a distance of 75 yards from the bear, which at that time had its head down in the vegetation, browsing on berries.  Other images, including the last five where the bear's head was up, looking at and moving toward the backpacker, were taken at a distance of 60 yards. Most of the backcountry units that were closed as a result of the incident are now open. Unit 10, where the attack took place, will remain closed for the next few days for continued monitoring and investigation. The unit encompasses an area of almost 50 square miles.
[Submitted by Kris Fister, Public Affairs Officer]




Blue Ridge Parkway
Maintenance Employees Intervene In Attempted Suicide

On Wednesday morning, rangers received a report from maintenance staff at the Mount Pisgah picnic area that a vehicle parked there was covered with blood, both inside and out.  As rangers responded, the maintenance employees found a 59-year-old Asheville man with a self-inflicted knife wound to his wrist and began to render first aid.  Rangers arrived as well as EMS and transported the man to Mission Hospital for further treatment.  The man told rangers that he was depressed with his current state of affairs and decided to end his life.  At the time he cut his wrist, he also set fire to the trailer he was occupying and left when the trailer became fully engulfed.  Despite losing a large amount of blood, he was able to drive to the parkway, where he was later discovered. Asheville/Buncombe Arson investigators have adopted the case.
[Submitted by Tim Francis, Pisgah District Ranger]




FIRE MANAGEMENT

NIFC/NPS Fire and Aviation Management
National Fire/Incident Situation Highlights

National Fire Activity – Preparedness Level 4

NIFC is at PL 4. Initial attack was light on Thursday. Thirty uncontained large fires are burning nationwide; 25 incident management teams are committed.

Fire Weather Forecast

Scattered showers and thunderstorms will form across the lower deserts of Arizona and California, the Great Basin and move into the northern Rockies. A cold front will stall from Wyoming to New York, bringing breezy but cooler conditions to the northern Plains and the Great Lakes region. Showers and thunderstorms associated with the remnants of Hurricane Isaac will continue over the lower and mid-Mississippi Valley and move into the Tennessee and Ohio Valleys. The East coast will remain warm and dry.

To see a NOAA map of today's critical fire weather areas, click on this link: http://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/fire_wx/fwdy1.html

Fire Summary (Five Day Trend)

Day

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Date

8/27

8/28

8/29

8/30

8/31

Initial Attack Fires

98

80

82

99

141

New Large Fires

1

1

11

6

2

Large Fires Contained

4

3

3

2

4

Uncontained Large Fires

25

20

29

34

30

National Resource Commitments (Five Day Trend)

Day

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Date

8/27

8/28

8/29

8/30

8/31

Area Command Teams

0

0

0

1

1

NIMO Teams

3

2

2

2

2

Type 1 Teams

6

7

10

10

9

Type 2 Teams

7

7

8

12

13

NPS Fire Summaries

No updates on National Park Service fires have been received since yesterday.


For additional information on all fires, check the following National Park Service and NIFC web sites:

NIFC

NPS




OPERATIONAL NOTES

Servicewide
Upcoming Training And Conference Calendar

Please submit information on upcoming training courses to Bill_Halainen@nps.gov no later than the Thursday morning before the Friday calendar update. New listings and revisions are in bold face.

Please note that the calendar includes ongoing, on-line training offerings. They appear at the end of this listing.

All entries must be brief and should have the following:

  • Beginning and ending dates.
  • Name and location of course.
  • A short one- to two-line description.
  • The closing date for application or registration.
  • Name(s) and number(s) for more information.
  • Most importantly, a link to a website where full announcements or detailed information can be found.

Note: Listings are removed from the calendar once the application deadline has passed.

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Scheduled Training

September 10 – September 14 – Effective Oral History: Interviews, Project Management and Practical Application, Stephen T. Mather Training Center, Harpers Ferry, WV.  For more information or to apply go to DOILearn.  Travel scholarships are available – apply at this link. For more information, contact: Lu Ann Jones 202-354-2219 or luann_jones@nps.gov .

September 24 – September 28 – Law Enforcement Control Tactics Refresher, Glynco, GA. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is August 31st.

October 1 – Deadline for proposals for Protected Areas in a Changing World: The 2013 George Wright Society Conference on Parks, Protected Areas, and Cultural Sites, which will be held in Denver next year from March 11th to March 15th. The conference is the USA's largest interdisciplinary meeting focused on parks, protected areas, and cultural sites. The more information, go to the conference website: http://www.georgewright.org/gws2013.

October 2 – October 5 – Firearms Instructor Refresher Training, Fresno, CA. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is September 7th.

October 10 – October 20 – Use of Force Instructor Training, Grand Canyon, AZ. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is September 7th.

October 15 – October 18 – Interagency Regional Wilderness Stewardship Training Course, Jackson Hole, WY.  Sponsored by the Arthur Carhart National Wilderness Training Center.  Click on this link for course information.  Contact: Tim Devine (406-243-4612, tim_devine@nps.gov) with any questions.

October 15 – October 26 – Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Course, Glen Canyon NRA, AZ. This 80-hour class is designed to provide persons participating in NPS structural fire suppression efforts with the technical information and primary skills essential for the safe operation and proper maintenance of a fire apparatus. Emphasis is on hands-on training of pumping skills critical to the support of personnel assigned to fire control functions. Personnel will become proficient in troubleshooting, hydraulics, drafting and multiple line pumping evolutions. This will be supported with technical literature and training manuals.  After successful completion of this course the individual will be certified to drive, pump, and maintain structure fire apparatus for the NPS. The closing date is September 14th. For more information, contact Mark Gorman at 208-387-5244 or check the website at http://npsfamshare/structural/operations/default.aspx.

October 17 – October 19 – Firearms Instructor Refresher Training, Cape Hatteras, NC. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is September 14th.

October 22 – October 25 – Interagency Wilderness Interpretation and Education Workshop, Estes Park, CO.  Sponsored by the Arthur Carhart National Wilderness Training Center.  Click on this link for course information.  Contact Tim Devine (406-243-4612, tim_devine@nps.gov) with any questions.

October 22 – October 26 – Equipment Operator Safety, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ. This course will examine the risks of operating heavy equipment and steps required to minimize them. To enroll in the class: Click on this Link  or log on to DOI Learn, and search for Equipment Operator.  Your Supervisor must approve the class in DOILearn.  Learning and Development is offering travel scholarships. After enrolling in the class, email sarah_polzin@nps.gov for a scholarship application. For more information or questions, please contact Sarah Polzin, 301-663-8206 x 115 or Steve Hastings, 301-663-8206 x 134.

October 22 – November 2 – Law Enforcement Instructor Training, Artesia, NM. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is September 5th.

October 29 - November 2 – Effective Interpretation of Archeological and Cultural Heritage Resources, National Conservation Training Center, Shepherdstown, WV.  This five-day course will enhance interdisciplinary communication skills for using a team approach to developing and carrying out effective public interpretation and education programs and products. For more information and nomination form: http://www.nps.gov/history/seac/course-of-study/nctc-2012/index.htm  or call John Jameson, 850-580-3011 ext. 243

October 29 – November 9 – Physical Security Training, Glynco, GA. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is September 6th.

October 29 – November 9 – Basic Tactics Instructor Training, Glynco, GA. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is September 6th.

October 29 – November 9 – Law Enforcement Control Tactics Instructor Training, FLETC, Glynco, GA. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is September 6th.

October 29 – November 9 – Firearms Instructor Training, Artesia, NM. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is September 6th.

November 5 – November 9 – Fire Instructor I Course, Glen Canyon NRA, AZ.  This course is designed to provide firefighters with the information needed to meet the job performance requirements in NFPA 1041, Standard for Fire Service Instructor Professional Qualifications. This 40-hour class prepares fire service personnel with the skills necessary to deliver instruction materials, including assembling course materials and the use of instructional aides and evaluation tools. Knowledge and skills will be tested throughout the course and course graduates will be qualified as fire instructors within the National Park Service with accreditation through the National Board of Fire Service Professional Qualifications. The closing date is October 5th. For more information, contact Mark Gorman at 208-387-5244 or check the website at http://npsfamshare/structural/operations/default.aspx.

November 5 – November 9 – Advanced Photovoltaics Design and Installation, Zion National Park, UT. This class is a follow-up to the Introduction to Photovoltaics course and will task students with installation of a PV system.  Completion of the Introductory course is a prerequisite.  An online version of the Intro to PV will be available in October.  To enroll in the class: Click on this Link  or log on to DOI Learn, and search for Adv Photovoltaic.  Registration is open until October 12.  Your supervisor must approve the class in DOILearn. Learning and Development is offering travel scholarships. After enrolling in the class, email sarah_polzin@nps.gov for a scholarship application, which must be received by September 28. For more information or questions, please contact Sarah Polzin, 301-663-8206 x 115 or Steve Hastings, 301-663-8206 x 134.

November 6 – February 1 – Criminal Investigator Training, FLETC, Glynco, GA. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is September 19th.

November 11 – November 22 – Inland Boat Operator Training, FLETC, Glynco, GA. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is October 4th.

November 26 – November 30 – Law Enforcement Adjunct Instructor Training, FLETC, Glynco, GA. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is September 28th.

November 26 – December 7 – Physical Security Training, FLETC, Glynco, GA. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is October 4th.

November 26 – December 7 – Firearms Instructor Training, FLETC, Artesia, NM. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is September 28th.

December 3 – December 7 – Engine Company Fire Officer Class, Glen Canyon NRA, AZ.  Using the incident command system, participants will develop technical knowledge and leadership skills essential for the command and control of structural fire emergencies. Individuals are introduced to the management skills of preplanning, communications, decision-making, fire attack strategies/tactics, and logistical support functions and will practice their skills through dynamic group sessions and video simulations. The closing date is November 2nd. For more information, contact Mark Gorman at 208-387-5244 or check the website at http://npsfamshare/structural/operations/default.aspx.

December 3 – December 7 – Active Shooter Threat Instructor Training, FLETC, Glynco, GA. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is October 11th.

December 10 – December 21 – Use of Force Instructor Training, FLETC, Glynco, GA. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is October 23rd.

December 10 – December 21 – Law Enforcement Fitness Coordinator Training, FLETC, Artesia, NM. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is October 18th

December 17 – December 21 – Inland Boat Operator Training, FLETC, Glynco, GA. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is October 11th.

January 6 – February 2 – NPS Parkmedic Training, Fresno, CA. The biannual park medic training program is designed to refresh the student's knowledge of basic life support and to provide instruction in advanced life support and pre-hospital care. Patient care in the remote setting will be emphasized. Candidates successfully completing the course will be tested at the National Registry of EMTs, Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT), and receive NPS certification as a park medic. For more information, go to this PDF file: http://classicinside.nps.gov/documents/Parkmedic%20Training%202013.pdf.

April 15 – April 26 – National Parks Institute Executive Leadership Seminar. Tailored to executive-level managers of national parks, protected lands, marine sanctuaries, and cultural heritage sites, this international seminar focuses on strategic protected area leadership, innovation and organization renewal.  The course also builds professional friendships that serve as an international peer association that continue to deepen each year. Participants learn to lead strategic change by anticipating change, reinvigorating their organizations, and incorporating innovative thinking into their management. A practical framework is applied to real-world case studies, and participants develop a take-home action plan to address a challenge that participants bring from their own park. The four modules focus are as follows: Leading Change and Organizational Renewal, Context Matters: Trends and Critical Issues in Public Land Management, Innovation in the Field, and Generating Motivation and Commitment. The seminar begins at the Institute at the Golden Gate in San Francisco, proceeds to UC Merced, and wraps up in Yosemite National Park. Past keynote speakers include Professor Charles O'Reilly III of Stanford Graduate School of Business, Ruth Coleman, former director of California State Parks, NPS Director Jon Jarvis, Harvard Professor Emeritus E.O. Wilson, and former President Jimmy Carter. Twenty-seven applicants will be selected to participate in the seminar.  Selection will be based on a competitive application process and committee review.  Last year, NPI received seminar applications representing over 25 countries and five continents. The application deadline is October 12th. For more information, and for application materials, visit http://parkleadership.ucmerced.edu/. Questions should be directed to Ashley Adams (209-379-2038, ashley_adams@nps.gov ).

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Online and Ongoing Training

Cultural Resources

Nationwide Programmatic Agreement Toolkit. To help guide NPS staff on implementing the NPS nationwide programmatic agreement, which governs Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, the NPS has developed a "toolkit." The toolkit is mandatory training that provides guidance to NPS superintendents and Section 106 coordinators, division chiefs, and facilities staff at region and park levels on using the programmatic agreement during Section 106 review. NPS employees may earn a certificate for their review of the toolkit through DOI Learn by taking a final assessment. Register for the course in DOI Learn, then review the contents of the toolkit website before returning to DOI Learn to complete a final assessment. The toolkit website is available online at: http://www.nps.gov/history/howto/PAToolkit/index.htm. For more information about the NPS nationwide programmatic agreement toolkit, please contact: Jeffrey Durbin, NPS Section 106 compliance program officer, at 202-354-1816 or Jeffrey_durbin@nps.gov

Managing Archeological Collections. Learn about caring for archeological collections and help to overcome the curation crisis. The course is designed to assist those who are interested in, or need to learn more about, preserving and managing archeological collections over the long term. Register for the course in DOI Learn, then review the contents of the course website before returning to DOI Learn to complete a final assessment. The course website is available online at: http://www.nps.gov/archeology/collections/index.htm. For more information, contact Teresa Moyer (202-354-2124, teresa_moyer@nps.gov).

Archeology for Interpreters. Through this training, interpreters and anyone with an interest and need to know – including law enforcement rangers, natural resource experts, and managers -- may gain basic knowledge about archeology. The course provides opportunities to learn about archeological methods and analysis and how to encourage concern for the preservation and protection of archeological resources. A park-based case study provides practice. Register for the course in DOI Learn, then review the contents of the course website before returning to DOI Learn to complete a final assessment. The course website is available online at: http://www.nps.gov/archeology/AforI/index.htm.  For more information, contact Teresa Moyer (202-354-2124, teresa_moyer@nps.gov).

Interpretation for Archeologists. Archeologists and other resource professionals can take this training to gain a firm foundation in and understanding of the purpose, philosophy, and techniques of interpretation. The course encourages archeologists to frame their work for the public and to work with interpreters to integrate archeological perspectives into interpretive products and tell compelling stories.  Register for the course in DOI Learn, then review the contents of the course website before returning to DOI Learn to complete a final assessment. The course website is available online at: http://www.nps.gov/archeology/IforA/index.htm.  For more information, contact Teresa Moyer (202-354-2124, teresa_moyer@nps.gov).

Study Tour of Archeological Interpretation. View interpretation with "fresh eyes" to evaluate choices and strategies for interpreting archeology in parks and historic sites. Download worksheets to assist in evaluating both onsite interpretation and virtual visits.  Register for the course in DOI Learn, then review the contents of the course website before returning to DOI Learn to complete a final assessment. The course website is available online at: http://www.nps.gov/archeology/studytour/index.htm.  For more information, contact Teresa Moyer (202-354-2124, teresa_moyer@nps.gov).

Assessment of Archeological Interpretation. Use the interpretive analysis model to evaluate the effectiveness of interpreting archeological resources on the basis of visitor experience at the levels of short-term outcomes, long-term outcomes, and audience feedback. Learn more about the National Park Service evaluation strategy. Register for the course in DOI Learn, then review the contents of the course website before returning to DOI Learn to complete a final assessment. The course website is available online at: http://www.nps.gov/archeology/aiassess/index.htm. For more information, contact Teresa Moyer (202-354-2124, teresa_moyer@nps.gov)

NPS Fundamentals

NPS Fundamentals I: NPS Mission and History. A cornerstone for your NPS career. Learn online at your own pace about the history of the NPS, how the NPS is organized, and how the NPS fits into the federal government. Completion of this course is a prerequisite for NPS Fundamentals II: Introduction to NPS Operations.  Cost: free. For more information, go to the NPS Fundamentals website: http://www.nps.gov/training/fund/index.htm . Contact: Judy Geniac, (Judy_Geniac@nps.gov, 928-638-7881).

NPS Fundamentals III: NPS Career Management and Retirement Planning. Look ahead in your NPS career and eventual retirement. Learn online at your own pace about career and retirement planning, including sessions on advancing in your chosen career path, financial planning, insurance, and making healthy lifestyle choices. Cost: free. For more information, go to the NPS Fundamentals website: http://www.nps.gov/training/fund/index.htm. Contact: Judy Geniac, (Judy_Geniac@nps.gov, 928-638-7881).

NPS Fundamentals IV: Managing Work Life in the NPS. What are the expected legal and ethical behaviors of NPS employees? Why should diversity matter to you? What can you do to ensure a safe work environment? Get these questions answered and more in this online course studying public ethics, diversity, and safety in the NPS. Cost: free. For more information, go to the NPS Fundamentals website: http://www.nps.gov/training/fund/index.htm.  Contact: Judy Geniac, (Judy_Geniac@nps.gov, 928-638-7881).

Wilderness

The Wilderness Act of 1964. Arthur Carhart National Wilderness Training Center/Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands.  Click on this link for course information.  Contact: Tim Devine, 406-243-4612, tim_devine@nps.gov with any questions.

Minimum Requirements Analysis. Arthur Carhart National Wilderness Training Center/Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands.  Click on this link for course information.  Contact: Tim Devine, 406-243-4612, tim_devine@nps.gov with any questions.

Wilderness Stewardship Planning Framework. Arthur Carhart National Wilderness Training Center/Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands.  Click on this link for course information.  Contact: Tim Devine, 406-243-4612, tim_devine@nps.gov with any questions.

Wilderness Visitor Use Management. A suite of three courses: Fundamentals, Strategies, and Monitoring Impacts and Uses.  Arthur Carhart National Wilderness Training Center/Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands.  Click on this link for course information.  Contact: Tim Devine, 406-243-4612, tim_devine@nps.gov with any questions.

Natural Resource Management in Wilderness. A suite of twelve courses: Fundamentals, Challenges in Natural Resource Restoration, Monitoring, Evaluating Proposals for Scientific Activity, Fish and Wildlife, Fish and Wildlife Inventory and Monitoring, Threatened and Endangered Species, Air Quality, Soil and Water, Vegetation, Soundscapes, and Night Sky.  Arthur Carhart National Wilderness Training Center/Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands.  Click on this link for course information.  Contact: Tim Devine, 406-243-4612, tim_devine@nps.gov with any questions.

Managing Cultural Resources in Wilderness.  A suite of three courses: Fundamentals, Inventory and Monitoring, and Evaluating Scientific Proposals.  Arthur Carhart National Wilderness Training Center/Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands.  Click on this link for course information.  Contact: Tim Devine, 406-243-4612, tim_devine@nps.gov with any questions.

Managing Paleontological Resources in Wilderness.  A suite of three courses: Fundamentals, Inventory and Monitoring, and Evaluating Scientific Proposals.  Arthur Carhart National Wilderness Training Center/Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands.  Click on this link for course information.  Contact: Tim Devine, 406-243-4612, tim_devine@nps.gov with any questions.

Deciding to Keep Wilderness Wild: Four Cornerstones for Wilderness Managers. Arthur Carhart National Wilderness Training Center/Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands.  Click on this link for course information.  Contact: Tim Devine, 406-243-4612, tim_devine@nps.gov with any questions.

EMS

EMS Training. The Branch of Emergency Services is announcing various levels of emergency medical services (EMS) training. This is offered to NPS employees at no cost by the Air National Guard. A list of offerings and dates are located under the "Training" link on the NPS EMS InsideNPS website. If you wish to attend one of the listed sessions, please contact Bob Wightman at 865-436-1261 or bob_wightman@nps.gov.  He will provide additional details about the courses and will put you in touch with ANG liaison.

EMS Training. The 445th Aeromedical Staging Squadron at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Fairborn, Ohio, is offering 22 EMS refreshers, each combined with American Heart Association CPR for Healthcare Provider classes. These courses are offered tuition free to NPS employees. Reduced-rate lodging may be available on base. Refreshers, or portions, may be attended for CEU's. Remaining EMS Refresher/CPR offerings are on the following dates: September 10 – September 14, September 17 – September 21, and September 24 – September 28. Contact Keith Gad by email (Keith_Gad@nps.gov) or by phone at 937-681-8308 to receive more information and instructions.

Retirement

Firefighter/Law Enforcement Officer Retirement Training for Human Resource Specialists, Managers and Supervisors. This course is designed to provide firefighter and law enforcement officer retirement training for human resources specialists, managers and supervisors. Cost: Free. For more information, see DOI Learn website: http://www.doi.gov/doilearn. Registration: DOI Learn Help Desk 1-866-466-1998 or email at doilearn@geolearning.com. FLERT Contact: William (Alan) Sizemore, Alan_Sizemore@ios.doi.gov 208-334-1556.

FERS Retirement Training for Firefighters and Law Enforcement Officers. This course is designed to provide firefighters and law enforcement officers with information on FERS special retirement provisions so that they can manage their careers in such a way that they maximize their benefits. Special retirement provisions apply to employees occupying these positions and they have specific responsibilities that are critical to know about and act upon throughout their careers if they expect to qualify for special retirement. Cost: Free. For more information, see DOI Learn website: http://www.doi.gov/doilearn. Registration: DOI Learn Help Desk 1-866-466-1998 or email at doilearn@geolearning.com. FLERT Contact: William (Alan) Sizemore, Alan_Sizemore@ios.doi.gov 208-334-1556.

Supervision

New Supervisor Development Program. This new training and development program, which was begun last year, is designed specifically for first-time supervisors within the 12 month probationary period of their initial appointment. The New Supervisor Development Program (NSDP) is a blended learning program that is delivered both online and in residential (three day) sessions across the country in collaboration with Bureau of Land Management, and the Fish and Wildlife Service. The online modules (completely free of cost) are available on DOILearn as preliminary work, and include the basics of in knowledge and skills for a first-time supervisor. Completion of these modules is followed by a three day Supervisory Skills Workshop (SSW) that provides synthesis and skills practice. The NSDP satisfies the initial 40-hour new supervisory training required by OPM (5CFR 412.202). There will be no cost to parks and regions in FY 2012 – all costs (tuition and travel) are being funded by WASO Learning and Development. Registrations for the SSW are managed via regional employee development officers by slot allocation.  For more information, please contact Katrina Roberts, NSDP Training Manager, 202-354-1487, or Brigitte Keels, 202-354-1406, or your regional employee development officer. This program is expected to continue in FY 2013, but funding has yet to be determined. Additional information can be found at: http://www.nps.gov/training/ - click on the link under "Featured Links:New!"




PARKS AND PEOPLE

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (AZ,UT)
GL-0025-9 Protection Ranger (Lateral)

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is seeking a Level I commissioned ranger interested in a lateral reassignment.  A permanent full time position is available in the Wahweap District. This area provides access to some of the best recreational opportunities in Northern Arizona and Southern Utah.  

Glen Canyon NRA has an active law enforcement program, serves as a field training park, serves as the leading training site for the NPS structural fire program, and has an active park medic program. The park has a large and diverse call volume both on and off of the water. 

Interested candidates must have EMT-B certification, at a minimum, and be willing to actively participate in the structural fire program.  Glen Canyon also offers many training opportunities (such as park medic, boat operator and structural firefighter) and other career development opportunities.

Wahweap, Arizona, is located on the Arizona-Utah border nine miles from Page, Arizona, and 135 miles north of Flagstaff, Arizona, the nearest larger community. Page looks out on beautiful Lake Powell, which offers boating, associated water sports recreation and fishing. The surrounding park land includes beautiful red rock country for hiking and backcountry recreational activities. Page is centrally located to many other national parks, such as Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon and Canyonlands. It offers normal community amenities, such as shopping, medical and dental facilities, schools K-12 and college courses available through local Coconino Community College. The area enjoys typical high desert climate with temperatures ranging from 100+ in the summer to mid-teens in the winter with low humidity and sunshine most days of the year. The elevation is 4300 feet above sea level.

Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Wahweap District Ranger Shawn McNally at 928-608-6523 or email him at Shawn_McNally@nps.gov. 

This position is required occupancy and moving expenses will be authorized.

Interested applicants should submit the following to the Wahweap District Ranger by September 10th:

  • A resume or OF 612, Optional Application for Federal Employment, or SF-171.
  • A current SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action.
  • A copy of your latest performance appraisal.



Pecos National Historical Park
Daniel Jacobs Is Retiring

Daniel J. Jacobs is retiring today as chief of the natural resource management and visitor protection division at Pecos National Historical Park following a 31-year federal career.

Dan was born and raised in Plainview, Minnesota, and attended the University of St Thomas, where he earned a BA degree in natural sciences in 1977 and an MA degree in teaching in 1978.  He spent a short time as a high school teacher and in 1977 began his federal career as a seasonal forestry technician on the San Juan National Forest in southwest Colorado.

Dan's National Park Service career began in 1981 as a seasonal ranger at Death Valley National Park and he worked additional summer seasons as a ranger at Mesa Verde, Mount Rainier, Bryce Canyon and Shenandoah National Parks as well as at the Old Post Office Tower in Washington D.C. and Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina.   He also worked as a professional ski instructor between seasonal park ranger positions.

Dan accepted a permanent park ranger job at San Juan National Historical Park in 1986, and then went on to work at Fort Laramie National Historic Site, Crater Lake National Park,  and finally to Pecos National Historical Park.   

During his career as a ranger, Dan's duties primarily involved law enforcement, emergency medical services, search and rescue, wildland and structural fire, and natural resources management. He has held interpretive, basic patrol, district, staff and chief park ranger positions.

Over the years, Dan has been privileged to participate in many special events in areas all around the country. In addition, as a member of a type 1 National Interagency Incident Management Team, he responded to numerous large wildland fires and national emergencies such as the 911 incident in New York City and Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. Along with many special visitors and coworkers he has had the opportunity to meet or work with; Dan most fondly remembers many unique park areas in which he has been fortunate to work and live.  Some of his favorite memories include working with sea turtles and nesting shore birds on the beaches of North Carolina; kayaking Death Valley Wash; skiing around Crater Lake; climbing Mount Rainier and exploring the backcountry ruins at Mesa Verde.

Dan and Dee Renee can now be found at home in Port Angeles, Washington, where they plan to spend time with Dee Renee's father and her menagerie of critters. Dan can be reached at djjacobs1@juno.com.
[Submitted by Daniel J Jacobs, DJacobs@nps.gov, Daniel_J_Jacobs@nps.gov, 505-438-1157]




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NPS serious incident submission standards can be found at the following web site:

http://inside.nps.gov/waso/custompages.cfm?prg=45&id;=8728&lv;=2&pgid;=3504

All reports should now be submitted via this automated system.