The Morning Report
Friday, March 27, 2015
INCIDENTS
Yellowstone National Park (ID,MT,WY)
Concession Employee Pleads Guilty To Credit Card Theft And Fraud
On November 30, 2010, a concession employee reported to the National Park Service that D.R. had stolen her credit card information and then fraudulently used the card to purchase items while within the boundaries of the park.
An investigation conducted by the Investigative Services Branch revealed a series of fraudulent purchases by D.R. totaling approximately $2,792 between September 4 and October 13, 2009. The total financial loss to the victim was estimated at $4, 600.
On January 2, 2015, D.R. was arrested on a warrant in Washington State and held pending trial. Rangers from Lake Roosevelt NRA assisted with the coordination and transport of D.R. for his initial appearance.
D.R. pleaded guilty to three counts of misappropriation of property and services and was sentenced to 60 days imprisonment and a year's supervised release and ordered to pay full restitution to the victim.
[Submitted by Investigative Services Branch]
NEWS AND NOTES
Historical Documentation Programs
New HD Video Details Ellis Island Landscape Features
The Historic American Landscapes Survey (HALS) has documented the historic landscape features of Ellis Island with a high definition laser scanner.
Last Summer, HALS produced documentation of the cultural landscape of historic Ellis Island, part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument in New York. The documentation consisted of measured drawings, large-format photographs and a historical report for the HABS/HAER/HALS collection in the Library of Congress.
HALS utilized a high-definition laser scanner in addition to hand-drawn field notes and hand-measuring to obtain information needed to produce existing conditions measured drawings of the landscape features. This short animation video shows the 3D point cloud model produced from the laser scanner data.
Ellis Island is an interlocking series of three mostly man-made islands in New York Harbor. It was home to the preeminent U.S. Immigration Station from 1892 to 1954.
The original natural island was expanded to become Island 1, which holds the Main Immigration Building and was the primary site of immigration inspection and processing. In the first decade of the 20th century, Islands 2 and 3 were created to house U.S. Public Health Service hospitals. Originally the three islands were only connected via a narrow strip of land or a wood gangway on the northwest, with basins for ferry docking separating the Immigration Station and the hospital complexes. A significant amount of Ellis Island's land is covered in large-scale buildings, making the buildings themselves one of the primary landscape features.
The video is best viewed in "High Definition". To change this setting in Facebook, click on the "HD" icon at the bottom of the screen. On YouTube, adjust the resolution of the video by clicking the "gear" icon on the bottom of the screen.
Here are the relevant links:
- Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=861943633869588&l=3771615397163897177
- YouTube -- Channel at https://youtu.be/_FSNtO-sxIg
See the documentation of Ellis Island in the Library of Congress at http://www.loc.gov/pictures/search/?q...
Learn more about Ellis Island, a unit of the National Park Service, at http://www.nps.gov/elis/index.htm. Learn how you can help Save Ellis Island at http://www.saveellisisland.org/
This video was produced by Historic American Landscapes Survey (HALS) Architect Ryan Pierce and contains no spoken words.
[Submitted by Robert R. Arzola, robert_arzola@nps.gov, 202-354-2170]
Midwest Region
Arkansas National Parks Share Centennial Plans at Tourism Conference
"Making the Connection" was the theme of the presentation made by National Park Service [NPS] officials earlier this week at the Arkansas Governor's Conference on Tourism in Texarkana, AR. Representatives of the Arkansas national parks spoke to tourism industry leaders about the upcoming NPS Centennial celebration being planned for 2016.
Arkansas is home to seven units of the National Park Service: Arkansas Post National Monument, Buffalo National River, Fort Smith National Historic Site, Hot Springs National Park, Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, Pea Ridge National Military Park, President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace Home National Historic Site. In addition, the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail crosses the state.
The 2016 Centennial will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Organic Act of 1916, which was signed into law by President Woodrow Wilson to establish the National Park Service. In addition to special events being planned on both the national and local levels, Centennial planners are focusing on strategic objectives that will strengthen and sustain the agency in its second century of operation.
Throughout the NPS presentation, officials emphasized the primary goal of the Centennial which is to "Connect with and create the next generation of park visitors, supporters, and advocates." In addition to several major initiatives that will be launched nationally, each park is making its own plans to mark the occasion.
Looking forward to the next hundred years, park managers are examining visitation statistics, economic impacts, and demographic trends. While visitation to Arkansas national parks was relatively flat from 2004-2013 (averaging 2.8 million visitors per year), visitation figures for 2014 increased nearly 13 percent to over 3.1 million visitors. "We're hoping to sustain this upward visitation trend by reaching out to underserved populations," said Kevin Cheri, Superintendent of Buffalo National River [Harrison, AR]. "We must find a way to connect with young people and diverse populations."
NPS presenters encouraged the audience to engage with their national parks and take advantage of partnership opportunities. "The Centennial goal to connect with the next generation of visitors is a challenge that the NPS shares with the tourism industry," stated Teri Gage, Commercial Services Manager at Buffalo National River. "The people who visit Arkansas' national park sites are the same people tourism entrepreneurs want to attract to their hotels, restaurants, canoe rentals, and shops."
More information about the National Park Service Centennial can be found online at http://www.nps.gov/centennial and at http://nextcenturyforparks.org.
[Submitted by Teri Gage, 870-365-2702]
Geologic Resources Division
Assateague Coastal Engineering Inventory Report Released
A new NPS Natural Resource Report, entitled "Inventory of coastal engineering projects within Assateague Island National Seashore," has been released. It was prepared by Courtney Schupp and Andrew Coburn.
The geospatial database and accompanying report provide an inventory and analysis of the 33 coastal engineering projects, primarily coastal structures, dredge and fill projects, and beach nourishment and dune construction projects.
Coastal engineering projects have greatly altered the physical landscape and ecosystem in and adjacent to Assateague Island National Seashore (ASIS) in Maryland and Virginia. The Ocean City Inlet has reduced sediment delivery to the northern end of the island, leading to an increased rate of island migration, narrowing, and lowering.
Sediment bypassing to the northern end has restored habitat for threatened species. Artificial dunes have impeded natural barrier island processes including overwash and inlet formation, but have protected visitor infrastructure. Estuarine shoreline hardening has reduced habitat quality and availability and affected sediment transport processes.
The zip file containing the report and GIS files can be downloaded here: https://irma.nps.gov/App/Reference/Profile/2220096/ The report citation is Schupp, C., and A. Coburn. 2015. Inventory of coastal engineering projects within Assateague Island National Seashore. Natural Resource Report NPS/NRPC/GRD/NRR—2015/914. National Park Service, Fort Collins, Colorado.
[Submitted by Rebecca Beavers, Ph.D., rebecca_beavers@nps.gov, 303-987-6945]
Office of Public Health
Commander David Engelstad Receives Engineer Of The Year Awards
Commander David Engelstad, design branch chief and project manager for the Project Management Division (PMD) at Yosemite National Park, was recently selected as the National Park Service engineer of the year.
Engelstad was also chosen as the 2015 Public Health Service engineer of the year and was further honored to be named one of the 'Top Ten' federal engineers of the year by the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE).
He received the honor during the 36th annual Federal Engineer of the Year Award Banquet at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., on February 26th.
Englestad was selected because of his leadership, several significant achievements and the success of important projects on which he has worked, as well as for his contributions to the engineering profession and his community involvement.
As the design branch chief, Engelstad is a valued member of PMD's leadership team and is noted for his mentorship and support of its employees. As project manager, his willingness to take on complex challenges and extra projects has kept PMD the 'can do' division that completes difficult challenges for Yosemite National Park and its approximately four million annual visitors.
Englestad also serves as a board member for Yosemite Community Church, champions Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania, East Africa, for Yosemite's Sister Parks program, and mentors solar lighting business start-ups in northern Tanzania. He was the keynote speaker at Society of Women Engineers' 2015 Region A conference and has judged University of California-Merced senior engineer projects.
Engelstad's education includes a BS degree in civil engineering from the University of North Dakota and a master of engineering in professional practice from University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is a professional engineer registered in the state of Wisconsin and is an active member of American Society of Civil Engineers, Engineers without Borders, National Society of Professional Engineers, and the Commissioned Officers Association of the U.S. Public Health Service.
As a USPHS officer, global citizen and international traveler, Engelstad's career goal is to use his professional talents to help address water and wastewater health challenges in Africa. His wife Jill, an experienced physical therapist with significant exposure to health issues in sub-Sahara Africa, is his greatest advocate in reaching this goal. They both have a passion for improvements in global health and sustainable development in the developing world and hope to make an impact on the bottom billion stuck in extreme poverty.
When not engaged in professional, community, or global citizen endeavors, David and Jill can be found hiking Yosemite's backcountry or planning a new travel adventure.
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.
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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
March 31 — April 2 — Assistance Agreements For ATRs, Medford, OR. This three-day course covers the formation and administration of federal government assistance agreements (grants and agreements) for the National Park Service. Tuition: $500. For more information, contact Lynne_Stokes@nps.gov. To register, click on this DOI Learn link.
April 2 — Interagency Pass Program Webex Training, 1 p.m. — 4 p.m. EDT. The NPS Recreation Fee Program is presenting instructor-led Webex training courses on the Interagency Pass Program on April 2nd and April 7nd. Register for either session in DOILearn. For more information, click on this link.
April 7 — Interagency Pass Program Webex Training, 1 p.m. — 4 p.m. EDT. The NPS Recreation Fee Program is presenting instructor-led Webex training courses on the Interagency Pass Program on April 2nd and April 7nd. Register for either session in DOILearn. For more information, click on this link.
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 14 — April 16 — Facilitation Skills for Trainers, Mather Training Center, Harpers Ferry, WV. At the end of this three day course you will have a customized toolbox of engagement strategies to implement in your classroom training. Education specialists, training specialists and collateral duty instructors take advantage of this opportunity to kick your skills up a notch. Contact Jo Robinson at 304.535.5016 or Jo_Robinson@nps.gov for more details. Register in DOI Learn.
April 16 — 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 Thursday of 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).
April 23 — Achieve Compliance! Pass Your Credit Card Security Audit (SAQ) with Flying Colors Webinar, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. EDT. Click on this link for more information and details on how to register.
April 27 — Achieve Compliance! Pass Your Credit Card Security Audit (SAQ) with Flying Colors Webinar, noon to 2 p.m. EDT. Click on this link for more information and details on how to register.
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 — Achieve Compliance! Pass Your Credit Card Security Audit (SAQ) with Flying Colors Webinar, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. EDT. Click on this link for more information and details on how to register.
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, or Brinnen_Carter@nps.gov.
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.
May 6 — FERS Benefits For Law Enforcement Officers, webinar, 1 p.m. EDT. This one hour live webinar will cover the rules on law enforcement officer retirement, emphasizing the "special provisions" that apply to them. The registration fee is $49. To register, click on this link. There's been an overwhelming response from agencies inquiring about group discounts for multiple locations as well as multiple employees in one location. Call Michael Floyd directly at 877-817-7017 or email him at michael.floyd@fedweek.com for special tailored rates to suit your agency's needs.
May 12 — May 13 — NPS Right-of-Way (ROW) Permitting, Midwest Regional Office, Omaha, NE. This two-day class will focus on the NPS ROW permitting processes and best practices. This training is designed to help both park and Regional staff to recognize when there is a need for an NPS ROW permit, know the authorities and processes when issuing an ROW permit, and be familiar with resources available. For more information contact David A. Reynolds, Lands Right-of-Way Program Manager, at 415-623-2121 or david_a_reynolds@nps.gov. To read the full announcement, please click on this link.
May 19 — May 20 — Science Communication Workshop for Natural Resource Professionals, Fort Collins, CO. In this two-day course, you will learn how to communicate more effectively about science with people outside the field, including the general public, policy makers, the media, students, and prospective collaborators in other disciplines. Through discussion and practice, we will first focus on fundamental skills—knowing our audience, connecting with our audience, and speaking clearly and conversationally about our work and why it matters. This class is free. Sign up through DOI Learn (course NPS-NRS3802) until May 1st. Enrollment is by wait list, so the number of "open seats" is going to show zero. For a preview, visit http://www.centerforcommunicatingscience.org. More information, contact Cheri_Yost@nps.gov or 202-768-2945.
May 21 — 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 Thursday of 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).
June 2 — June 11 — Firearms 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 April 24th.
June 18 — 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 Thursday of 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).
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.
May 21 — May 27, 2016 — International Shadowing Opportunities, Eighth World Ranger Congress, Estes Park, CO. The Association of National Park Rangers, which is hosting this congress is working to facilitate short-term training and/or shadow assignments for interested international delegates. WRC organizers are seeking national parks that would be willing to host one or two international delegates for three to five days in a shadow or training assignment, either before or after the Congress. Opportunities to host delegates will be posted this spring to the congress website (http://worldrangercongressusa.com). International delegates will then choose parks and activities that interest them, making their own travel arrangements. Host parks will be responsible for providing housing and travel support within the park during the shadow assignment. Delegates should be signed up as VIP's. Delegates will be responsible for providing their own meals. For more information and questions, please contact activity coordinator Cindy Purcell, Zion NP chief ranger, at cindyp.wrc8@gmail.com.
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.
Orientation to National Park Service Integrated Pest Management. This two-hour, interactive course, available on DOl Learn, provides an overview of the laws, policies, basics for managing pests, and philosophy of the NPS IPM Program. This training is for any employee, contractor, or volunteer who is involved in pest management in the NPS. Training is relevant for individuals engaged in natural and cultural resource management, facilities management, public health, risk management, commercial services, museum management, housing management, wildlife management, cultural landscape management, and other NPS programs involved with pest prevention and management. The course code is NPS-NRS1720. Cost: Free. This course is available through DOI Learn. To learn more about the IPM Program, visit this website and/or this website. For more information, please contact Carol DiSalvo, 202-513-7183 or at carol_disalvo@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
Acadia National Park (ME)
GS-0401-11/12 Fire Management Officer
Acadia National Park has issued an announcement for a fire management officer.
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 April 15th.
More Information...