The Morning Report

Friday, February 20, 2015

INCIDENTS

Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River (TX)
Overdue Canoeist Rescued From Lower Canyons

On February 15th, rangers Greg Drum and Beau Bracken began a search for a 68-year-old man from Albuquerque who had departed on January 30th to canoe the remote Lower Canyons portion the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River.

When his permit revealed to rangers that he was overdue, a request for assistance was put in to the U.S. Customs Air and Marine Branch out of Alpine, Texas. Drum joined the pilot to assist him with the aerial search.

The man was spotted on the Mexican side of the river near Upper Madison Falls, a Class III/IV rapid. He'd attempted to portage the rapid, but became stranded due to his physical condition and diminished supplies. He said that he'd flipped his canoe several times earlier in the trip and had lost a bag filled with essential medication. Without his medication, he had begun to succumb to extreme lethargy and was unable to continue his trip. He said he hadn't seen another human during his entire time on the river and therefore believed his chance of rescue was miniscule.

Drum was dropped off nearby and hiked to the man's location. Using his canoe, Drum helped him back across the Rio Grande. The pilot waited on the Texas shore, then flew him to park headquarters in Panther Junction. He was transported to Big Bend Regional Medical Center, treated there, and released with no lasting injuries.

The remote Lower Canyons of the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic are among the most rugged and desolate locations in the Lower 48. Rangers are the only people who patrol the river along this stretch of international border. For more information and photographs of this area, click on the link below.

[Submitted by Allen S. Etheridge, Chief Ranger]

More Information...

NEWS AND NOTES

Office of Communications
President Launches Kids In Park Initiative, Creates Sites

As part of President Obama's commitment to protect our nation's unique outdoor spaces and ensure that every American has the opportunity to visit and enjoy them, he yesterday launched an "Every Kid in a Park" initiative that will provide all fourth grade students and their families with free admission to national parks and other federal lands and waters for a full year. He also announced the creation of three new national monuments across the country.

The President made the announcements near the site of the historic Pullman town in Chicago, a location iconic for its history of labor unrest and civil rights advances, which will be the city's first National Park Service unit.

He also announced that he will designate Honouliuli National Monument in Hawaii, the site of an internment camp where Japanese American citizens, resident immigrants and prisoners of war were held captive during World War II, and Browns Canyon National Monument in Colorado, an historic site of extraordinary beauty with world-class recreational opportunities that attract visitors from around the globe.

Together, these monuments will help tell the story of significant events in American history and protect unique natural resources for the benefit of all Americans.

Every Kid In A Park

In the lead up to the 100th birthday of the National Park Service in 2016, the President's Every Kid in a Park initiative is a call to action to get all children to visit and enjoy America's unparalleled outdoors. Today, more than 80 percent of American families live in urban areas, and many lack easy access to safe outdoor spaces.

At the same time, kids are spending more time than ever in front of screens instead of outside. A 2010 Kaiser Family Foundation study found that young people now devote an average of more than seven hours a day to electronic media use, or about 53 hours a week — more than a full time job.

America's public lands and waters offer space to get outside and get active, and are living classrooms that provide opportunities to build critical skills through hands-on activities. To inspire the next generation to discover all that America's public lands and waters have to offer, the Obama Administration will provide all fourth grade students and their families free admission to all national parks and other federal lands and waters for a full year, starting with the 2015-2016 school year.

The initiative will also:

Make it easy for schools and families to plan trips — The Administration will distribute information and resources to make it easy for teachers and families to identify nearby public lands and waters and to find programs that support youth outings.

Provide transportation support to schools with the most need — As an integral part of this effort, the National Park Foundation (NPF) — the congressionally chartered foundation of the National Park Service — is expanding and re-launching its Ticket to Ride program as Every Kid in a Park, which will award transportation grants for kids to visit parks, public lands and waters, focusing on schools that have the most need.

Provide educational materials: The initiative will build on a wide range of educational programs and tools that the federal land management agencies already use. For example, NPS has re-launched a website with over 1,000 materials developed for K-12 teachers, including science labs, lesson plans, and field trip guides. And a number of federal agencies, including the Bureau of Land Management, Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Department of Education, and NPS participate in Hands on the Land, a national network of field classrooms and agency resources that connects students, teachers, families, and volunteers with public lands and waterways.

To further support this effort, the President's 2016 budget includes a total increased investment of $45 million for youth engagement programs throughout the Department of the Interior, with $20 million specifically provided to the National Park Service for youth activities, including bringing a million fourth grade children from low-income areas to national parks. This increase will also fund dedicated youth coordinators to help enrich children and family learning experiences at parks and online.

Pullman National Monument (NPS)

This monument will preserve and highlight America's first planned industrial town and a site that tells important stories about the social dynamics of the industrial revolution, of American opportunity and discrimination, and of the rise of labor unions and the struggle for civil rights and economic opportunity for African Americans and other minorities.

The 203-acre site includes factories and buildings associated with the Pullman Palace Car Company, which was founded in 1867 and employed thousands of workers to construct and provide service on railroad cars. While the Pullman Company employed a mostly white workforce to manufacture railroad passenger cars, it also recruited the first porters, waiters and maids from the population of former slaves to serve on its luxury cars.

Though lower-paying, these service jobs held prestige in the African-American community and played a major role in the rise of the African-American middle class and, through an historic labor agreement, the development of the civil rights movement of the 20th Century. The historic labor movement organized by A. Philip Randolph in the 1930s to win rights for these porters, waiters and maids ultimately created the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, the first labor union led by African Americans to receive a charter in the American Federation.

The National Park Foundation today announced that nearly $8 million has already been raised to support the monument, which will be Chicago's first National Park Service unit and will be managed by the Department of the Interior's National Park Service.

Browns Canyon National Monument (BLM)

This monument will protect a stunning section of Colorado's upper Arkansas River Valley. Located in Chaffee County near the town of Salida, Colorado, the 21,586-acre monument features rugged granite cliffs, colorful rock outcroppings, and mountain vistas that are home to a diversity of plants and wildlife, including bighorn sheep and golden eagles. Members of Congress, local elected officials, conservation advocates, and community members have worked for more than a decade to protect the area, which hosts world-class recreational opportunities that attract visitors from around the globe for hiking, whitewater rafting, hunting and fishing.

In addition to supporting this vibrant outdoor recreation economy, the designation will protect the critical watershed and honor existing water rights and uses, such as grazing and hunting. The monument will be cooperatively managed by the Department of the Interior's Bureau of Land Management and USDA's National Forest Service.

Honouliuli National Monument (NPS)

This monument permanently protects a site where Japanese American citizens, resident immigrants, and prisoners of war were held captive during World War II. Located on the island of Oahu, the monument will help tell the difficult story of the internment camp's impact on the Japanese American community and the fragility of civil rights during times of conflict.

Honouliuli Internment Camp, located in a steep canyon not far from Pearl Harbor, opened in March, 1943. and was the largest and longest-used confinement site for Japanese and European Americans and resident immigrants in Hawaii, eventually holding 400 civilian internees and 4,000 prisoners of war.

The camp was largely forgotten until uncovered in 2002, and the President's designation will ensure its stories are told for generations. The monument will be managed by the Department of the Interior's National Park Service.

*****

For the text of President Obama's comments and additional information and photos, please go to the White House website at the link below.
More Information...

Biological Resource Management Division
Workshop Advances NPS Biodiversity Conservation And Discovery

Science and stewardship play prominent roles in park management, far greater than at any time in National Park Service's history, yet there is mounting reason for concern. Across the globe, the diversity of life is declining at a precipitous rate at the ecosystem, species, and genetic levels.

The next century for the NPS will be influenced by stressors such as climate and land use changes, invasive species, and relevancy of national parks and their biological resources to numerous stakeholders.

In 2011, NPS released a "Call to Action," to advance the mission of the Service into its second century and offer directional guidance to NPS staff as well as opportunities to engage in actions that contribute to the legacy of the NPS.

Action item 7, "Next Generation Stewards" envisioned creating a new generation of citizen scientists by conducting biodiversity discovery activities in at least 100 parks by 2016; engaging participation of diverse audiences, especially children; and fostering partnerships to support biodiversity discovery and conservation. Response from the parks was so positive that NPS exceeded its initial goals this past summer.

To build upon this success and consider next steps in moving beyond the Call to Action, a team of NPS staff and partners gathered at George Washington's River Farm last October. The purpose of this in-depth workshop was to cultivate new partnerships; tap into perspectives from diverse attendees, including scientists, educators, data managers, social scientists, and youth; and to generate a framework for continuing to advance biodiversity conservation and awareness.

The workshop commenced with visionary presentations by E. O. Wilson, acclaimed father of biodiversity, and Associate Director Natural Resource Stewardship and Science Ray Sauvajot. Ben Clark, 14, the Service's biodiversity youth ambassador, followed with a presentation on the value of biodiversity discovery events to youth and the effect involvement in such activities has had on schools and youth programs across the nation.

Subsequent workshop content and discussion was divided into three major parts, focusing on review of the foundations and challenges of past biodiversity discovery and conservation efforts; innovations and advancements to consider in future efforts; and continuing engagement of the next generation.

Content from the workshop, including an extensive matrix of ideas and development opportunities, is available on the Biological Resources Division sharepoint site and will help inform next steps to advance National Park Service biodiversity conservation and awareness into the Service's second century.

For additional information, see the following websites:

[Submitted by Elaine F. Leslie and Kass Hardy]

Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park (CA )
Dogs And Owners Enjoy Healthy Parks Healthy People Event

Healthy Parks, Healthy People Bay Area has been getting active.

For the past five years, Bay Area parks and health care providers have been working in a high-level collaboration with the Institute at the Golden Gate to coordinate free public events offered on the first Saturday of every month.

These programs encourage San Francisco Bay Area families to explore city, state, regional, and national parks in their own communities, while promoting the mental, emotional and physical benefits of recreating outdoors. Programs hosted by park staff range from family fun games, yoga classes, hikes for all fitness levels, and more.

Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park in Richmond, California, wanted to bring a pet-friendly twist to the list of Healthy Parks, Healthy People Bay Area programs. Working in collaboration with the East Bay Regional Park District, rangers recently hosted "Wagging Tails and War Tales," a two-mile dog walk on Saturday, January 10th, along the San Francisco Bay Trail.

Inviting dog owners of all breeds, rangers guided participants and emphasized the significant role that family dogs played during World War II. The event bridged a gap between dog owners and the National Park Service, shared knowledge about WWII Home Front history, and showed that parks can be a cornerstone for better health.

Thirty four dog owners and their furry friends met rangers at Point Isabel, an East Bay Regional Park District site, and one of the country's largest off-leash dog parks. Prior to the walk, each dog was strapped up in matching bandanas (like Rosie the Riveter used to wear) while the human participants discussed the health benefits of outdoor exercise with their furry friends.

The participants continued on the trail to the edge of the off-leash area while listening to rangers speak about the WWII-era Dogs for Defense program, while the dogs enjoyed their off-leash play. When the group reached the public area of the San Francisco Bay Trail, the dogs were put on-leash, and the walk continued at a brisk pace, encouraging participants to break a sweat.

Each participant was given a pedometer to wear to track the number of steps they took. The statistics show that the participants walked a total of 121,807 steps (averaging 3,583 steps per person) during this two mile walk to the Rosie the Riveter Memorial — and this doesn't even include the dogs' steps.

Every individual who had pre-registered showed up to attend, and the enthusiasm was infectious. Several spontaneous individuals noticed the fun, and signed up on a waiting list in hopes of participating. One participant mentioned that the dog-friendly aspect of the program encouraged them to join, and that they would likely return for future dog walk programs.

Currently, the Community Outreach team from Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park is planning the next round of this successful event on Sat, April 4th, giving the public more opportunities to participate in free fitness and fun outdoors with their furry companions.

[Submitted by Kimiko De Pedro, Park Ranger ]

Fire and Aviation Management
Richard Gibson Receives DOI Safety Award

National Park Service aviation management specialist Meg Gallagher has presented a DOI Aviation Safety Airward to Grand Canyon helicopter mechanic Richard Gibson for actions taken last August.

On August 4, 2014, while assigned to the Pumice Fire Complex in Crater Lake National Park, Gibson conducted a preflight inspection of Grand Canyon Helicopter H-368PA and found cracks on the upper surface of the number 3 flex. The helicopter was immediately grounded and after review of the maintenance manual and speaking with a McDonnell Douglas technical representative, pictures were reviewed and it was deemed necessary to replace the damaged flex beam.

The inspection undertaken by Gibson was a routine visual inspection where nothing is removed. A more in-depth inspection is conducted during the 100-hour inspection which was due approximately in the next ten hours of flight time. All previous inspections for H-368 had been up to date and no deficiencies found.

The previous day there was no evidence of damage during preflight to the number 3 flex beam during inspection. The aircraft flew 5.3 hours on August 3rd and had no issues throughout the day's flight. Missions during the previous day consisted of firefighting crew transports, long line, bucket drops, medevac, and reconnaissance.

The flex beam was replaced on August 9th and after a maintenance flight and regional inspector approval the aircraft was put back into service on August 10th.

The attention to safety detail performed by Gibson, and the replacement of the part, may have prevented a catastrophic failure of the helicopter while engaged in a mission. Based on his communication and interaction with the helicopter crew, as well as his safety conscious attitude and actions, Gibson was awarded the Airward, departmental recognition of actions that promoted aviation safety or prevented an accident. Congratulations to Richard!

[Submitted by Meg Gallagher, 208.387.5783, meg_gallagher@nps.gov]

NPS Alumni
Passing Of Jerry Buckbinder

Gerald "Jerry" Buckbinder, 77, a longtime employee of the National Park Service in its Washington Office, died on Friday, February 13th, in New Brunswick, New Jersey.

Born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, a son of the late Louis and Ida (Miezel) Buckbinder, Jerry had lived in New Jersey since 1970. He was a printing officer for the National Park Service in Washington, D.C. for 43 years.

He was brother to Sanford Buckbinder of Providence, Rhode Island, Marilyn Solomon of East Brunswick, New Jersey, and the late David Buckbinder, and the loving uncle of many nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

Funeral services were held yesterday at the Shalom Memorial Chapel in Cranston, Rhode Island.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to your favorite charity. Shiva will be observed in New Jersey.

Click on the link below for more information and to leave a message of condolence.
More Information...

Servicewide
Upcoming Training Calendar

All training offerings — webinars, online courses and training sessions in the field — appear in this listing only, updated each Friday. Entries must be received by midday Thursday at the latest for the following day's update. Send them to Bill_Halainen@contractor.nps.gov.

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.

New listings and revisions to this week's calendar are in bold face. They are removed from the calendar once the application deadline has passed.

*********************************************************************************************************

Learning Event Catalog

The National Park Service now has an interim learning event catalog that will help you find some of those hard to locate learning events. The catalog is a preview of one of many features yet to come on the new Common Learning Portal — an interactive, collaborative learning and development site scheduled to roll out in early FY16. The learning and development community has compiled a starting list of events offered regionally and Servicewide in FY15. This list is being updated on a biweekly basis as new opportunities arise and current events are updated, so check back regularly. To view the searchable PDF file click here: http://www.nps.gov/training/LD/docs/LD%20Calendar%20-%20FY-2015.pdf

Training and Webinars

February 24 and 26 — Green Purchasing Webinars, Session 2, Topics 1 & 2, 2 — 3 p.m. ET. The Sustainable Operations and Climate Change Branch, in collaboration with NPS regional environmental coordinators, will host one-hour webinars to support implementation of environmental purchasing in the parks and regions. Two topics will be covered — the first will be an introduction to environmental purchasing and the second will examine minimizing climate impacts through greener purchasing choices. Guest speakers from GOGA, RICH and SAAN will be featured. Click on this link for the course announcement. Closed-Captioning for the webinars will be provided upon request. Contact Fred Sturniolo at SOCC (202-513-7078) with any questions.

February 24 — February 26 — Divine Disorder: Folk and Outsider Art Conference 2015, Atlanta, GA. The National Center for Preservation Technology and Training is partnering with the High Museum of Art, Paradise Gardens Foundation, and the Friends of NCPTT for this conference focused on highlighting the underappreciated decorative works of non-traditional artists. The conservation of these works is vital to preserving the life story of those artists outside the main stream art community. For more information or to register please visit the training announcement (http://ncptt.nps.gov/blog/divine-disorder-2015/) or contact Jason Church at jason_church@contractor.nps.gov or 318-356-7444.

February 24 — February 26 — Divine Disorder; Conference on the Conservation of Folk and Outsider Art, High Museum of Art, Atlanta, GA. This conference is focused on highlighting the underappreciated decorative works of non-traditional artists. The conservation of these works is vital to preserving the life story of those artists outside the mainstream art community. For more information, go to the event webpage at http://ncptt.nps.gov/blog/divine-disorder-2015/; or contact Jason Church: 318-356-7444 or jason_church@contractor.nps.gov.

February 28 — FMLP Mentors Program, application deadline. This year-long course requires attendance at three classroom sessions with instruction and practical application of supervision and leadership topics. The latest advances in facilities management will be reviewed, providing the mentors with sufficient knowledge to assist in their protégé's development. Instruction in writing skills and techniques of mentoring will be included. The program is also designed to assist with an individual's professional growth through the application of mentoring skills such as communication, lateral leadership, and critical analysis of written materials. Applicants should register for the FMLP Mentors Program-Supervision Practices in Facility Management on DOI Learn. The course can be found at this link. Once you have registered you will be sent an application by email. Complete the application and return it to Mark Tezel by February 28th. Mentors will be selected in March. For more information, contact either of the following: Sandy Pusey-Cameron, Asset Management Training Lead (202-997-7317, sandy_pusey@nps.gov ) or Mark Tezel, Asset Management Training Coordinator (202-431-7409, mark_tezel@nps.gov).

March 2 — March 5 — Parkmedic Refresher, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, TN. This course is led by instructors from Roane State Community College and meets National Registry transition standards from Parkmedic/ I-85 to Advanced EMT. This is a 36 hour transition course; cost is $100 and it is open to any National Park Service Parkmedic. After completion, candidates are eligible to register for National Registry practical and cognitive testing in order to complete the transition to Advanced EMT. For more information and/or to register, call KK Stuart at 828-497-1914 or email at kathleen_stuart@nps.gov.

March 3 — Background Investigations for NPS Fee Collection Personnel, webinar, 2 p.m. EST. The course will describe the background investigation requirements for both NPS fee collection personnel and non-federal staff (volunteers) who handle government monies, articulate the process of submitting background investigations, and explain the procedures the security office follows to determine whether a candidate is suitable for a fee collection position. For more information, click on this link. The registration deadline is March 1st.

March 9 — March 13 — Fundamentals Of Special Park Uses, NCTC, Shepherdstown, WV. The 36-hour course covers all aspects of special park uses from First Amendment to commercial filming and still photography to wireless telecommunication facilities. Also included is a component on temporary food services and other health and safety issues related to special park uses. DO-53/RM-53 is covered in depth, as well as 36 CFR and NPS Management Policies 2001. For more information contact Lee Dickinson, Special Park Uses Program Manager, WASO at 202-513-7092.

March 10 — March 12 — EMT Refresher, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, TN. Also includes National Registry skills verification on March 13th. This course will meet National Registry requirements for a 24 hour EMT refresher and transition from EMT-Basic to EMT. Instruction is provided by Roane State Community College. Cost is $75. An extra day for the skills review/verification is scheduled for Friday, March 13th. Cost for this is $25. This refresher will be held at the Sugarlands Training room next to the Sugarlands Visitor Center. For more information and/or to register, call KK Stuart at 828-497-1914 or email kathleen_stuart@nps.gov.

March 10 — March 12 — Structural Firefighter Biannual Refresher, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park, CA. This three-day class satisfies the refresher requirements for NPS structural firefighters as outlined in Chapter 10 of Reference Manual 58, NPS Structural Fire Management. The course is designed to refresh the skills, knowledge and competencies of previously certified structural firefighting personnel through the utilization of live fire scenarios. NPS live fire qualified instructors direct the training in compliance with NFPA 1403 and OSHA requirements. Application deadline is February 8th. For further information, contact Mark Gorman at 208-387-5244 or check the website at http://famshare.inside.nps.gov/structural/operations/default.aspx.

March 11 — March 12 — Skills for WebEx Moderators, 2:00 - 4:00 pm ET. In this training, you will learn how to support the instructor on the WebEx Training platform. Learn to add supplemental class materials, set up polls and monitor learner activity. Register in DOI Learn by March 1st. Contact Jo_Robinson@nps.gov if more information is needed.

March 16 — March 20 — Motorboat Operator Instructor Certification Course, Everglades NP, FL. This course is targeted toward experienced motorboat operators and is designed to prepare persons who have previously completed the MOCC program to instruct others in the field of motorboat operations. The program will include principles of adult learning, instructional techniques and presentation; classroom management, use of MOCC lesson plans, and training aids; and the logistics of presenting a MOCC class at the local level. Students successfully completing this course will be certified to instruct the DOI "Motorboat Operator Certification Course" (MOCC). Tuition is $60. Closes on February 28th. For a nomination form or more information, contact Robert Gantt (robert_gantt@nps.gov, 305-242-7731).

March 18 — Getting Ready for Campaign Launch, Part II, webinar, 3 p.m. — 4 p.m. Eastern. The Centennial Office is hosting webinars on ways in which employees and partners can learn about NPS preparations for the upcoming centennial. Conference line: 1-888-455-3079; verbal pass code: Service. Space is limited. Reserve your Webinar seat now at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/743189369 .

March 19 — NPS Digital Servicewide Call/Webinar, 1:00 - 2:00 pm ET. Keep informed about the latest happenings in the NPS digital world on these calls/webinars. They are intended for all NPS staff—web authors, supervisors who manage web resources, and anyone interested in NPS digital efforts. Unless otherwise noted, they are held on the third Thursdayof each month at 1 pm ET. The general format includes 40 minutes of material on a variety of digital topics across the NPS (e.g., web, social media, apps, etc.) followed by 20 minutes of questions and answers. Agendas, registration information, and recordings and supporting materials from past calls/webinars are posted on the Digital Community Site (https://sites.google.com/a/nps.gov/web-community/resources/servicewide-calls).

March 24 — March 26 — Fiber Identification and Analysis for Conservation, Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Houston, TX. This course covers basic polarized light microscopy (PLM) and methods of sampling, characterization and identification mammalian hair and selected natural and synthetic fibers. Emphasis will be placed on hands-on exercises involving sample preparation and specimen manipulation as well as the characterization and identification of real life specimens. For more information go to the event webpage at http://ncptt.nps.gov/events/fiber-identification-and-analysis-for-conservation/; or contact Jason Church: 318-356-7444 or jason_church@contractor.nps.gov.

March 24 — March 27 — Fee Supervisors Training Workshop, National Conservation Training Center, Shepherdstown, WV. Recreation fee program managers, supervisors, and collateral duty employees with daily responsibilities for a fee program operation are encouraged to attend. The four-day course covers the essential competencies developed for fee supervisors including: supervising employees, making effective visitor contacts, collecting and accounting for fees, preparing remittance reports/deposits, disseminating information, analyzing business practices, cost of collection, and internal controls. Those attending will receive 20 hours of supervisory training. Register by February 20th through DOILearn - Course Code: NPS-ADM3002. Tuition, travel and per diem are paid by the benefiting account. For more information, click on this link.

March 24 — March 27 — Managing The Lost Person Incident, Redding, Ca. This course is designed to teach hands on and theoretical skills in search management in planning, operations and logistics functions. The course will follow the four phases of a search: hasty, first operational, multiple operations, and the find/suspension periods. To prepare for the challenges faced on every search the students will learn through lectures, handouts, discussions, as well as getting their hands dirty in the paperwork through a multi-phase tabletop map exercises to hone their skills. This course is for rangers and EMS/SAR personnel who perform SAR operations. There is no fee for the course only a $60 materials fee. Please register by March 10th. For more information or to register contact Lassen Volcanic National Park's SAR coordinator, Jennifer Yeager-Fish (530-595-6151, Jennifer_Yeager-Fish@nps.gov).

March 24 — April 4 — Structural Firefighter I/II Course, National Structural Fire Training Center, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, AZ. This class fulfills NFPA 1001 training standards to be qualified as a structural firefighter I and II. Participants will be able to perform both interior and exterior attacks during structural fire events. The course presents students with a strenuous hands-on curriculum that includes extensive training scenarios and live-fire drills. Students will be afforded numerous opportunities to develop and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed serve as a structural firefighter. Certification is based upon completion of all on-line modules, class assessments and evaluations. For formal accreditation through the National Board of Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board), participants must complete all associated courses and pre-requests. Application deadline is March 1st. For further information, contact Mark Gorman at 208-387-5244 or check the website at http://famshare.inside.nps.gov/structural/operations/default.aspx.

March 25 — March 27 - International Workshop on the Conservation and Restoration of Earthen Architecture or TICRAT (Taller Internacional de Conservación y Restauración de Arquitectura de Tierra), Alamos, Mexico. This workshop series is a bi-national, hands-on event focused on techniques and strategies for conserving and restoring earthen architecture and components such as adobe, lime plaster, and painted plaster. This year's event will involve presentations, workshops, and field trips in and around Alamos Sonora, a well-preserved 17th century Spanish Colonial town located in the tropical deciduous forest of Mexico's Sierra Madre Mountains. All costs for selected NPS employees, including transportation between the home park unit and Alamos, hotel, local travel, and meals will be provided. NPS staff participation is limited to 15 and requires preliminary registration to ensure equitable representation from multiple parks. Final registration will require a passport and superintendent-approved international travel authorization form. Preliminary registration is due by December 1st. To register contact Starr Herr-Cardillo, TICRAT coordinator, at (520) 271-3014 or seherr@email.arizona.edu. For copies of the flyer and registration form, got to http://www.nps.gov/tuma/historyculture/ticrat.htm. For more information, visit the Missions Initiative website, www.missions.arizona.edu.

April 6 — April 10 — NPS Basic Technical Rescue Training — West, Island-In-The-Sky District, Canyonlands NP, Moab, UT. This training course is designed for personnel who routinely evacuate injured or stranded persons from heights and vertical terrain. The course will provide participants with the skills to perform difficult technical rope-based rescues. Students will be required to bring personal technical rescue gear, including seat harness, climbing helmet, carabiners, rappel rack, ascenders, etc. This is a very physically demanding course conducted outdoors with frequent exposure to severe heights and extreme environmental conditions. All participants must be in good physical condition. This training includes a night rescue training exercise. Commercial lodging is available in Moab. Class size is limited and subject to funding, registration will be conducted on a first come first served basis, with priority to NPS employees who are actively involved with high angle rescue work. Target participants include permanent or seasonal employees who participate in a technical rescue program. All participants must be covered in official duty status by their agency during the training, in the event of accident or injury. A $200 registration fee is required to cover training course administrative costs. All participant travel and per diem expenses covered by benefiting account. The registration deadline is Friday, March 20th. For more information, contact Ken Phillips, NPS Branch Chief of Search and Rescue at 928-606-3862 (cell) or ken_phillips@nps.gov. Click on this link for a copy of the training form.

April 13 — April 16 — Mid-Century Modern Structures: Materials and Preservation 2015 Symposium, St. Louis, MO. The Friends of NCPTT, the World Monument Fund, the American Institute for Architects St. Louis, Washington University in St. Louis, and the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial are partnering for a jointly organized symposium on the preservation of Mid-Century Modern Structures. The meeting will be held at the Drury Plaza Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri, from April 14 to April16. A public lecture will precede the meeting on Monday evening, April 13, at Washington University in St. Louis. Focusing primarily on the history, use, and preservation of materials found in Mid-Century modern architecture. This three-day symposium will provide in-depth understanding of the complex issues associated with the preservation of these structures. For more information or to register please visit the training announcement (http://ncptt.nps.gov/events/mid-century-modern-structures-2/) or contact Mary Striegel at mary_striegel@nps.gov or 318-356-7444.

April 13 — April 24 — Law Enforcement Driver 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 February 25th.

April 17 — Introduction to the Planning, Environment and Public Comment System (PEPC), Upper Mammoth, Yellowstone NP, WY. This instructor-led course will provide a hands-on introduction to the PEPC system. The course will cover menu navigation, project search/tracking, reporting capabilities, resource tools and customization for your park/unit. Students will create a project in PEPC, enter the funding status, set up an interdisciplinary team, fill out an Environmental Screening Form (ESF), set up a NEPA/NHPA pathway, create a document for internal review, create a public project page, post a public document, review public correspondence, and close a project. For more information, contact Shannon Kruse, shannon_kruse@nps.gov, (970) 267-2131. Register in DOI Learn by March 20th. Complete announcement available here.

April 20 — May 1 — Fire Apparatus Driver Operator Course, National Structural Fire Training Center, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, AZ. This class fulfills NFPA 1002 training standards to be qualified as fire apparatus driver operator. The class is designed to provide persons with the technical information and skills essential for the safe operation and proper maintenance of fire apparatus. Emphasis includes hands-on training of pumping and driving skills critical to support personnel assigned to all hazard response. Personnel will become proficient in troubleshooting, hydraulics, drafting and providing water through multiple pumping evolutions. Certification is based upon completion of all on-line modules, class assessments and evaluations. For formal accreditation through the National Board of Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board), participants must complete all associated courses and pre-requests. Application deadline is March 22nd. For further information, contact Mark Gorman at 208-387-5244 or check the website at http://famshare.inside.nps.gov/structural/operations/default.aspx.

April 27 — May 1 — NPS Basic Technical Rescue Training—East, Acadia NP, ME. This course is designed for persons tasked with extricating victims in high angle environments, such as cliffs, canyons, urban situations, and to some degree, caves. All students should be in good physical condition, as there will be long days spent training outdoors, hiking with heavy loads, and often hanging on ropes for extended periods in very exposed settings. The course places a high premium on safety throughout the week, utilizing an ICS structure, applying Operational Leadership principles, and maintaining an instructor to student ratio of 1:3, and in some cases, 1:2. The instructor cadre has a wealth of experience and comes from a highly varied background, including veteran NPS rangers, maintenance workers, interpreters, resource management specialists and firefighters; military special operations personnel, such as Navy SEALs and Air Force PJs; certified climbing instructors and guides; a Maine State Parks ranger; veteran cavers; and tree surgeons. Optional after-hours presentations will be offered most evenings and will covers subjects such as a recent expedition to study the ice caves under Oregon's Mt. Hood, cutting-edge lightweight mountaineering rescue techniques, and possible demonstrations from leaders in the climbing and cliff rescue industries. Loging will be in a dorm facility operated by a licensed Acadia NP concessioner. There is zero tuition for attending the course, but there will be a small lodging fee of $5 per night per person for those who will be staying on site at the dorms. Attendees will be able to cook meals on site, as well, at the dorm's large group kitchen, and thus can eat affordably by utilizing the option of purchasing groceries for the week. Student slots will be limited to 36, and will be on a first come-first served basis, with priority given to NPS employees and volunteers who are actively involved with high angle rescue work at their home parks. Persons interested in attending this year's course should contact the course incident commander, Middle Buffalo District Ranger Kevin Moses from Buffalo National River. He can be reached at 870-688-0905 or kevin_moses@nps.gov, and he will send a training nomination form and associated information. The cadre is hoping to fill the class by mid to late February, so apply early.

April 28 — April 29 — Landscape Preservation: An Introduction, Sitka National Historical Park, Sitka, AK. This training introduces students to the concept of cultural landscapes, including designed, vernacular, and ethnographic landscapes and historic sites. Student then learn applicable laws and regulations, and discuss how to identify and inventory character-defining features of a landscape. Instructors then explore preservation planning and documentation, and how to develop a cultural landscape report to use in managing historic and cultural landscapes. Case studies illustrate realistic approaches to effective landscape management and preservation. Applications are due by April 14th. Details on the seminar can be found on the National Preservation Institute website (www.npi.org). For more information, contact Brinnen Carter at 907-747-0140, or Brinnen_Carter@nps.gov.

April 28 — April 30 — Resource Advisor (READ) Training Course, Yosemite NP, CA. The class will provide participants with the foundation to serve as READs during wildland fire incidents. READs generally work with fire managers to convey concerns about natural, cultural, and wilderness resources. The course benefits from having a mix of agencies, state, tribal and other representatives, as well as all cultural and natural resource disciplines. There is no training cost. For further information, see the announcement at this link or contact Jun Kinoshita at jun_r_kinoshita@nps.gov.

April 30 — Landscape Preservation: Advanced Tools for Managing Change, Sitka National Historical Park, Sitka, AK. Students will explore issues that direct the process of change and decision-making for challenging landscapes. Instructors will then review the practices of inventorying, evaluating, treating, and maintaining landscape resources and discuss the implications of each, identifying tools and techniques for managing change when difficult issues affect the process. Students should come to understand the philosophical foundations for making sound, educated decisions about preserving and managing historic and cultural landscapes over the long-term. Applications are due by April 14th. Details on the seminar can be found on the National Preservation Institute website (www.npi.org). For more information, contact Brinnen Carter at 907-747-0140, orBrinnen_Carter@nps.gov.

May 4 — May 8 — Archeological Resources Protection Training, Gettysburg NMP, Gettysburg, PA. Click on this link for the course announcement; contact Wiley Golden at FLETC (912-267-2246) with any questions. The deadline for applications is March 13th.

May 4, 2015 — April 15, 2016 — Facility Manager Leaders Program. This national award winning curriculum is designed to develop and strengthen selectees' knowledge and competencies in asset management, operations and maintenance, project management, resource stewardship, business management, supervision and leadership. This is a competency based training opportunity; it is not an intake program. Selected candidates will be enrolled in an intensive year-long program involving 20 to 28 weeks of study, classes and activities. To apply, log onto DOI Learn and enter "Facility Manager Leaders Program" in the search field. IMPORTANT: All six parts of the on-line application must be completed no later than January 16th. For additional information, contact Mark Tezel at (202) 431-7409.

June 23 — June 26 — Asset Management 101, Shenandoah NP, VA. This workshop will give attendees the opportunity to become more familiar with the application of asset management ideas, an opportunity to share ideas, work through project challenges, gain networking skills, and enhance individual professional development needed to move the Commercial Services Program into the future. Please register at DOI Learn by May 26th. The contacts for the course are Mark Colburn, 202-513-7198 or Kate Volzer, 202-513-7035. For more information, go to http://cs.inside.nps.gov/cs/Sites/servicewide/learning/amt/default.aspx.

June 25 — June 26 — Taser Instructor Certification/Recertification, Acadia NP, ME. A new certification and recertification instructor course for taser instructors will be held in the park in June. Log on to http://www.taser.com/training/training-events and click on "search 2015 Classes" and follow the instructions. For more information, contact Chris Wiebusch at 207-288-8776 or chris_wiebusch@nps.gov.

August 3 — August 7 — Fundamentals Of Special Park Uses, Albuquerque, NM. The 36-hour course covers all aspects of special park uses from First Amendment to commercial filming and still photography to wireless telecommunication facilities. Also included is a component on temporary food services and other health and safety issues related to special park uses. DO-53/RM-53 is covered in depth, as well as 36 CFR and NPS Management Policies 2001. For more information contact Lee Dickinson, Special Park Uses Program Manager, WASO at 202-513-7092.

August 18 — August 20 — Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Training, Big South Fork NRA, TN. This 24 hour course prepares an individual to become a peer supporter on the National Park Service's National CISM team. CISM training is designed to prepare employees to function as a peer supporter assisting fellow staff members in dealing with the aftermath of a critical incident or traumatic event and being able to provide support and service to families. At the completion of this training the participants will understand a wide range of crisis intervention services including pre and post incident crisis education, significant other support services, on-scene support services, crisis intervention for individuals, demobilization after large scale traumatic incidents, small group defusing, critical incident stress debriefings, one-on-one intervention strategies, and family liaison services on both internal and external incidents. Please contact Randy Scoggins (randy_scoggins@nps.gov) for questions or to apply. Application deadline is July 13th. Space is limited.

September 9 — September 11 — Structural Firefighter Biannual Refresher, Glacier National Park, MT. This three-day class satisfies the refresher requirements for NPS Structural Firefighters as outlined in Chapter 10 of Reference Manual 58, NPS Structural Fire Management. The course is designed to refresh the skills, knowledge and competencies of previously certified structural firefighting personnel through the utilization of live fire scenarios. NPS live fire qualified instructors direct the training in compliance with NFPA 1403 and OSHA requirements. Application deadline is August 9th. For further information, contact Mark Gorman at 208-387-5244 or check the website at http://famshare.inside.nps.gov/structural/operations/default.aspx.

September 14 — October 16 — National Search & Rescue Academy (NSARA): Fall 2015 Session, Camp Navajo, located near Flagstaff, AZ. NSARA is an intensive five-week comprehensive SAR training program for federal employees. This program will provide participants with a venue to efficiently attain basic field rescuer skills in a single condensed format, which typically requires several years of career development. This core program provides participants with essential field rescue skills in ground search operations, incident command system, swiftwater rescue, technical rope rescue, search management, basic aviation safety, helicopter rescue techniques, and remote/austere EMS techniques. This is a very physically demanding course and participants are required to perform at an arduous level without physical, mental, or emotional limitations. Participants will be involved in physical fitness training, which is completed through the Marine Corps physical fitness test. Participants are required to achieve a "First Class PFT Score" by the end of the academy. In addition to completion of independent study classes on basic ICS and SAR, candidates must possess a current minimum certification at the First Responder or Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) level. For further information on this training, see the announcement and nomination form at this link. Submit completed nomination forms to NSARA Coordinator Ken Phillips, NPS Branch Chief of Search & Rescue. E-mail: ken_phillips@nps.gov. Phone: (928) 606-3862 (cell). The nomination deadline is August 14th.

October 12 — October 23 — Structural Firefighter I/II Course, National Structural Fire Training Center, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, AZ. This class fulfills NFPA 1001 training standards to be qualified as a structural firefighter I and II. Participants will be able to perform both interior and exterior attacks during structural fire events. The course presents students with a strenuous hands-on curriculum that includes extensive training scenarios and live-fire drills. Students will be afforded numerous opportunities to develop and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed serve as a structural firefighter. Certification is based upon completion of all on-line modules, class assessments and evaluations. For formal accreditation through the National Board of Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board), participants must complete all associated courses and pre-requests. Application deadline is August 23rd. For further information, contact Mark Gorman at 208-387-5244 or check the website at http://famshare.inside.nps.gov/structural/operations/default.aspx.

November 2 — November 7 — Fire Officer and Instructor Course, National Structural Fire Training Center, (location to be determined). This class includes certification in both fire instructor I and fire officer I. These classes have been combined as fire instructor is a required prerequisite for fire officer. The class is a combination of online activities with job performance skills being demonstrated in a class or field setting. Fire instructor is designed around classroom lectures, group activities, and individual presentations. Topics include learning theories, use of instructional materials and media, maintaining student records and techniques for effective communication. The fire officer portion of the class focuses on technical knowledge and leadership skills which are essential for command and control of engine company personnel during fire emergencies. Participants will be introduced to the skills of preplanning, fire attack strategies/tactics and logistical support functions. Skills are reinforced and evaluated through dynamic group sessions and video simulations. For formal accreditation through the National Board of Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board), participants must complete all associated courses and pre-requests. Application deadline is October 4th. For further information, contact Mark Gorman at 208-387-5244 or check the website at http://famshare.inside.nps.gov/structural/operations/default.aspx.

Online Training

Web Authoring

NPS Basic Web. The basic course covers the topics that web authors need to effectively communicate via NPS websites—both internal and external. The basic course introduces students to web terminology, content strategy, accessibility, writing for the web, image selection/editing, PDF usage, web analytics, web support, and content management system (CMS) basics. If you have questions about signing up for the courses in DOI Learn, please contact your directorate web manager. The course code is NPS-INF2013.

NPS Intermediate Web. The intermediate course builds on topics covered in the basic course (above) to give park or program web coordinators (or any interested web author) resources for managing content on NPS websites. The intermediate course goes into more depth about content strategy, web analytics, accessibility, shared content on NPS.gov, and content management system (CMS) elements. If you have questions about signing up for the courses in DOI Learn, please contact your directorate web manager. The course code is NPS-INF4017

Natural Resources

Introduction to the Career Academy for Natural Resources. This two-hour on-line training orients learners to the natural resource and science career path within the National Park Service. It explains the role of the natural resource professional within the NPS, and introduces the concepts of ethical conduct, scientific integrity, interdisciplinary networks and building and maintaining professional credibility. Students will address their career development by exploring ways to design and implement professional development plans. Introduction to the Career Academy for Natural Resources is the first unit in the course of study being developed for the Foundational Natural Resource series of the Career Academy for Natural Resources. The Foundational Series is designed to help employees achieve the natural resource competencies at the entry/developmental level. It may also benefit natural resource professionals at any level who are new to the National Park Service. This course is available through DOI Learn. The course code is NPS-NRS1501. Cost: Free. To learn more about the Career Academy for Natural Resources, visit the website at http://www.nps.gov/training/nrs/academy/academy.html. For more information, please contact Jeri Hall, jeri_hall@nps.gov.

Introduction to Air Resources. Every unit in the national park system has air resources, but, because air is invisible and easily crosses park boundaries, many people do not think of it as a resource that the park service manages. This two-hour on-line training provides employees from any division with a basic understanding of what air resources are, why they are important, and the laws, regulations and policies that guide and govern their management. The course will also introduce the science of air pollution, air quality monitoring, and some of the air-related issues faced by parks throughout the service, including several in-depth case studies. It will provide learners with resources to explore air quality and management issues at their own unit, and sources for more in-depth information and assistance in dealing with specific problems. The course is part of the Career Academy for Natural Resources, and is the first of a planned series of on-line learning opportunities designed to provide NPS employees with an introduction to specific natural resources and natural resource issues. These courses are intended for natural resource employees at the entry/developmental level, and for anyone who wishes to learn more about natural resources within the national park system. This course is available through DOI Learn. The course code is NPS-NRS1503. Cost: Free. To learn more about the Career Academy for Natural Resources, visit the website at this link. For more information, please contact Jeri Hall, jeri_hall@nps.gov.

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).

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.

Writing a 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.

Evaluating a 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.

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.

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 linkfor 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.

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 2014 — 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, 202-354-1471, or Katherine Callaway, 202-354-1403, or your regional employee development officer. Additional information can be found at: http://www.nps.gov/training/ - click on Leadership Development Programs.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Pacific West Region
GS-0340-14/15 Park Superintendent

Dates: 02/17/2015 - 03/02/2015

Pacific West Region has issued an announcement for a superintendent for Death Valley National Park.

Please click on the link below to view the full vacancy announcement, which closes on March 2nd.

[Submitted by Martha Lee, martha_lee@nps.gov, 415-623-2106]

More Information...

Virgin Islands National Park (VI)
GL-0025-9 Protection Ranger

Virgin Islands National Park is seeking candidates for a protection ranger position.

Click on the link below for a copy of the announcement with full details on duties, area information, and procedures for applying.

It closes on March 12th.
More Information...

Inventory and Monitoring Division
Communications Specialist (Detail)

The Inventory and Monitoring Division of the Natural Resources Stewardship and Science Division, located in Fort Collins, Colorado, is currently seeking candidates for a temporary detail for up to six months as a communication specialist.

A "detail" is a temporary assignment to a different position or set of duties for a specified period of time. While on detail, the employee continues to hold his/her official position, including status, grade and pay. At the end of the temporary assignment, the employee will return to their official duty position.

It is open to all current career/career conditional employees within the National Park Service. The duty location will be the selectees normal duty location under a service-level agreement. Limited temporary duty travel is required and authorized.

The position is open to candidates with experience developing, implementing, and evaluating the effectiveness of communication strategies and a wide variety of communication products and tools, including written material, communication training frameworks, multi-media programs, and interpretive guides. In addition, the incumbent must develop tools to evaluate the effectiveness of the communication programs for facilitating the communication of science information to managers, scientists, and the public, in addition to facilitating communication within a national program.

The announcement is open through February 27th. Interested candidates should have approval from their current supervisor and submit the following by email to the Inventory and Monitoring Division, attention Joe Devivo, joe_devivo@nps.gov by the closing date:

Cover Letter
Resume (no more than 2 pages) describing certification/documentation of relevant experience
Most recent SF-50 (non-award)
Supervisory approval

Please ensure that your resume and/or cover letter include specific details regarding your qualifications and skills.

Ideally, the selectee will be assigned to the division from April 2015 through April 2016 or until the project is complete. However, that period may be adjusted to ensure selection of the most qualified candidate.

Questions regarding the qualifications or roles and responsibilities of this position, or the Inventory and Monitoring program may be directed to I&M Deputy Chief Joe DeVivo at 970.267.2189.