The Morning Report

Friday, May 22, 2015

INCIDENTS


New River Gorge National River (WV)
Man Jumps To Death From New River Gorge Bridge

A 24-year-old Ohio man leapt from the New River Gorge bridge to his death around 8 p.m. last Tuesday evening.

Several witnesses saw him sitting on the bridge railing, and then noticed he had disappeared. He fell approximately 200 feet on the north side of the bridge. His body was recovered near a bridge piling in steep terrain; his car was found in a local business parking lot.

West Virginia State Police, Fayette County Sheriff's Office, Fayetteville Police Department officers, Fayetteville Fire Department and Jan Care Ambulance personnel, and New River Gorge rangers worked the scene. Fayette County Sheriff's Office detectives and rangers are conducting an investigation into circumstances surrounding the incident.

[Submitted by Jeff West, Chief Ranger]


FIRE MANAGEMENT


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

National Fire Activity — Preparedness Level 1

NIFC is at Preparedness Level 1.

Fire Weather Forecast

Daily fire weather reports are not yet available. To see a NOAA map of today's critical fire weather areas, click on this link: http://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/fire_wx/fwdy1.html

Fire Summary (Five Day Trend)

NICC daily fire summaries are not yet available.

NPS Fire Summaries

Big Cypress NP — The lightning-caused Mud Lake Complex fires, which began on May 8th, have to date burned over 30,000 acres. A Type 1 IMT (Dueitt) has been assigned to the complex; at present, 349 firefighters and overhead are committed. For additional information, including maps and photos, got to this InciWeb site or to this Southeast Region news story.

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For additional information on all fires, check the following web sites:


NEWS AND NOTES


Lassen Volcanic National Park (CA)
Centennial Of Lassen Peak Eruption Celebrated

One hundred years ago, Lassen Peak literally blew its top. On May 22, 1915, a large explosive eruption of Lassen Peak brought national attention that set the stage for the establishment of Lassen Volcanic National Park on August 9, 1916.

"In honor of the 100th anniversary, we have a weekend full of activities planned, from a commemoration celebration to campfire talks," said Superintendent Steve Gibbons. "We are excited to share stories of Lassen's eruptive past with our visitors over the Memorial Day weekend."

California Congressman John E. Raker had tried unsuccessfully to pass a bill to establish what he originally called Peter Lassen National Park. Just one-seventh the size of Yosemite and lacking a transcontinental railroad for development and promotion, Lassen was not considered monumental enough.

Lassen Peak's 1914 and 1915 eruptions, especially the series of six photos captured by Benjamin F. Loomis, changed everything. Excited geologists, volcano enthusiasts, California business organizations, and civic associations generated a new wave of support and Raker successfully ushered the bill through the U.S. Senate. President Wilson signed the Lassen Volcanic National Park Act on August 9, 1916.

Less dramatic eruptive activity continued on Lassen Peak into the 1920s and the volcano continued to draw attention to the fledging national park. As visitors came to witness the volcanic power of the steaming giant, they began to discover the park's numerous other highlights including its hydrothermal areas, access to four different types of volcanoes found in the world, and countless lakes and streams offering numerous opportunities for recreation enthusiasts, like you. Following Lassen's formal dedication in 1931 which coincided with the completion of the park highway, visitation grew steadily each year, to where it now stands at about 432,000 visitors a year.

Information on the eruption celebration, including the schedule of special events, can be found on the park's website at http://www.nps.gov/lavo/planyourvisit/centennial.htm.

To read articles on the eruption centennial, please visit:

[Submitted by Lisa Wilkolak and Amanda Sweeney]


Harpers Ferry National Historical Park (WV)
NPS Honor Guard Appears At Police Week Events

The National Park Service Honor Guard paid tribute to fallen police officers at the 26th Annual National Police Week events in Washington, DC.

National Police Week is a time when the country's law enforcement officers come together in solidarity. Each year, thousands of officers come together to honor those officers who lost their lives in the line of duty during the previous year and to pay tribute to their families and those who went before them.

National Police Week draws in between 25,000 to 40,000 attendees. The attendees come from departments throughout the United States as well as from agencies throughout the world. This provides a unique opportunity to meet others who share a common brotherhood.

In the photo above, this year's Ranger Honor Guard team members — David Alexander, Jim Barnes, Chris Figge, Steven Powell and John Eleby — are shown with Interior Secretary Sally Jewell and an award that the team received from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund in recognition of the team's support.

[Submitted by Sean Isham, Supervisory Park Ranger]


Fort Union National Monument (NM)
Fort Union Holds Naturalization Ceremony

On May 8th, Fort Union held its second annual naturalization ceremony.

Hosted by Group Superintendent Karl Cordova, the Oath of Allegiance was taken by 11 applicants as they were granted citizenship.

Applicants were from 11 countries - Canada, Colombia, Germany, Japan, Mexico, Philippines, Senegal, Spain, Thailand, and the United Kingdom.

[Submitted by Charles Strickfaden]


LABE
Lava Beds Welcomes New Chief Ranger

David Hansen has been selected as the chief ranger for Lava Beds National Monument and the Tule Lake Unit of World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument. David follows Radford Dew, who took a position at Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Texas.

The chief ranger position is a critical position to the protection of park resources and relationships with park neighbors and stakeholders. Hansen comes to the park with a variety of experiences that will support his efforts to communicate with park neighbors and the general public about park resource protection issues.

"I am excited to rejoin the dedicated team at Lava Beds and the Tule Lake Unit and further explore the amazing resources of the area that I just began to learn about during my detail there this past winter," says Hansen. Hansen recently spent four months acting as the Lava Beds National Monument and Tule Lake Unit chief ranger.

After growing up in the Midwest and enjoying backpacking trips in the national parks and mountains of the west, Hansen began his land management career in 2002 as a US Forest Service wilderness ranger in the Wind River Mountains' Fitzpatrick Wilderness. Hansen has worked for the National Park Service for more than 10 years, beginning as a seasonal law enforcement ranger in Yosemite in 2003. He also served at Kings Canyon, Grand Canyon, and most recently at Bryce Canyon National Parks.

Hansen enjoys foreign travel, reading, and a variety of outdoor activities including competitive bicycling events, hiking, and cross-country skiing. Hansen is also looking forward to living closer to his partner, Katie Johnson, who works at Lassen Volcanic National Park.

"He brings a wealth of talent and experience in emergency services, as well as a personal passion for history and the high desert environment, like that found here in the Tule Lake Basin," says Superintendent Mike Reynolds.

[Submitted by David P. Hansen, David_Hansen@nps.gov, 5306678111]


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

May 28 — Fraud Awareness in Fee Collection Operations Webinar. Vicki Josupait, an investigative analyst from the DOI Office of Inspector General, will describe the role of the Inspector General's Office and the importance of fraud awareness. The webinar will also cover fraud prevention tips, indicators to look for, case examples, and fraud reporting. For more information, go to http://inside.nps.gov/index.cfm?handler=viewnpsnewsarticle&type=Conferences&id=2500 .

June 2 — June 4 — Advance Project Management Webinar. This series will equip you with the skills and techniques to validate how you define what each project should accomplish and map out the steps necessary to ensure that you get there. It will also give you some perspective on the critical role of the project manager, the project team, and the network of stakeholders. The session is centered on discussing and analyzing the dynamics of your current or pending project responsibilities to ensure that you take away the specific insights needed to leverage your current capability. The closing date for application is May 29th. For more information, contact Katrina Roberts at 202-354-1471 or Brigitte Keels at 202-354-1406. For more information, go to https://doilearn.webex.com.

June 2 — June 4 — Advance Project Management Webinar. This series will equip you with the skills and techniques to validate how you define what each project should accomplish and map out the steps necessary to ensure that you get there. In addition it will give you some perspective on the critical role of the project manager, the project team and the network of stakeholders. The session is centered on discussing and analyzing the dynamics of your current or pending project responsibilities to ensure that you take away the specific insights needed to leverage your current capability. Register no later than May 29th. For additional information, contact Katrina Roberts at 202-354-1471 or Brigitte Keels at 202-354-1406. For registration and/or announcement information you can go to https://doilearn.webex.com and/or Catalog.

June 2 — June 25 — NPS Revenue Reconciliation Training Webinar. AOC is hosting a number of training webinars on revenue reconciliation through June 25th. Each session is limited to 50 participants. This training will cover procedures necessary for proper monthly reconciliation of revenue (cash, checks, credit card payments, Pay.gov, ACH, FedWire, or IPAC deposits). For full details on sessions and registration, click on this link.

June 4 — NPS.gov Office Hours, 3 - 4 pm ET. Once a month, the NPS digital team offers a full hour for anyone to join in and ask questions. The primary focus is for technical or strategy questions related to NPS.gov centennial projects, but all things digital are considered. Register at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/7786884650298351362.

June 4 — June 7 — SARCON2015, YMCA of the Rockies Conference Center, Estes Park, CO. The combined national search and rescue conference of MRA and NASAR and CSRB will be held in Estes Park without any pre-conference activities. Conference activity tracks are Friday 5th and Saturday 6th with possible overflow to Sunday 7th morning concurrent with MRA business meetings. Routine updates are posted to the SARCON website, which also has a link for conference registration. NPS employees will be considered members and will receive the member's conference rate. Upon registration, the link for lodging (meals included) at YMCA of the Rockies will appear (as the YMCA is handling the lodging/meals reservations).

June 8 — Designing NPS.gov Websites for Mobile, 3:30—4:30 pm ET. Now that NPS.gov websites resize and reflow to fit mobile screens, it's important to consider whether your content is providing a quality experience for mobile users. This training will cover some basic best practices and recommended steps, look at some design and layout examples from around NPS.gov, and leave plenty of time for discussion or Q&A. The training is appropriate for all web authors with sites in the NPS.gov content management system. It will be repeated on June 12; one session will be recorded and made available on the Digital Community Site. Register at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/4194818645838828801.

June 12 — Designing NPS.gov Websites for Mobile, 3:30—4:30 pm ET. Now that NPS.gov websites resize and reflow to fit mobile screens, it's important to consider whether your content is providing a quality experience for mobile users. This training will cover some basic best practices and recommended steps, look at some design and layout examples from around NPS.gov, and leave plenty of time for discussion or Q&A. The training is appropriate for all web authors with sites in the NPS.gov content management system. It is a repeat of the session on June 8; one session will be recorded and made available on the Digital Community Site. Register at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/4194818645838828801.

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 22 — June 26 — Interdisciplinary Resource Protection and Law, St. Louis, MO. This course provides employees with a solid understanding of the resource mission of the NPS and the primary laws, legal authorities, case law interpretation, and policies used to protect park resources. Participants will also receive instruction in the functions and roles that contribute to effective interdisciplinary group work and practice these skills through resource protection case studies. Deadline for application is May 28th. Travel scholarships to help defray costs are available but must be submitted by May 28th. For the full announcement and scholarship application, go to the Natural Resource Stewardship training webpage. For more information about the course, please contact Jeri Hall, jeri_hall@nps.gov; or Cathy Purchis, cathy_purchis@nps.gov

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 23 — June 25 — Wood Identification Workshop, Natchitoches, LA. The National Center for Preservation Technology and Training is offering a workshop on wood identification for professionals involved in the preservation and conservation of wooden buildings and objects. The course is designed to teach wood morphology and anatomy at all structural levels relevant for wood identification. While focusing on a selection of North American and several exotic wood species that are prominent in architectural materials, participants will acquire knowledge and skills applicable to the identification of any unknown wood sample. Emphasis will be given to hands-on exercise in sampling, sample preparation, macroscopic and microscopic techniques, and immediate integration of lecture material into practice. Each participant will receive a set of reference samples and matching microscope slides. Tuition for this three-day workshop is $399. Space is limited to 12 participants. For more information or to register please visit the training announcement at this link. For more information, contact Ed FitzGerald at edward_fitzgerald@contractor.nps.gov or (318) 356-7444.

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.

July 13 — July 15 — Sharing Our Stories: Successfully Creating And Using Oral Histories, Northeast Regional Office, Philadelphia, PA. This workshop, offered in partnership with the WASO Park History program and the "Centennial Voices" initiative, will focus on documenting the institutional memory of employees and partners throughout our organization. This workshop will cover the basics of conducting good oral histories, including planning, researching, interviewing, and interpretation. The course covers all phases of an oral history project and includes practical experience applicable to a wide variety of oral history projects. Apply online by June 26th at http://bit.ly/1Hq0kzP . For more information, contact April Antonellis at 617-620-2707.

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 12 — August 14 — Writing Effective Performance Standards. This three day seminar is focused on helping supervisors understand the importance of managing employee performance as a key supervisory responsibility and knowing how to develop effective performance standards. The closing date for application is August 7th. For more information, contact Katrina Roberts at 202-354-1471 or Brigitte Keels at 202-354-1406. For details, go to DOI Learn (https://gm2geolearning.com) and/or catalog.

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 19 — October 21 — Writing Effective Performance Standards Webinar. This three day seminar is focused on helping supervisors understand the importance of managing employee performance as a key supervisory responsibility and knowing how to develop effective performance standards. The closing date for application is October 16th. For more information, contact Susan Walsh at 303-969-2422 or Katrina Roberts at 202-354-1471. For details, go to DOI Learn (https://gm2geolearning.com) and/or catalog.

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


Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area (WA)
GL-0025-9 Protection Ranger (Lateral)

Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area is recruiting for two full-time protection rangers who are interested in a lateral reassignment. Lake Roosevelt rangers are responsible for the full range of law enforcement and all-risk duties, including traditional patrol operations, EMS, SAR, resource protection, ARPA, encroachments, and more. Opportunities also exist for career enhancement by gaining experience assisting with the supervision of seasonal protection staff.

Currently commissioned permanent employees at the GL-9 grade level or higher may apply. These positions are primary 6c covered. At this time there are two positions open, however if additional vacancies occur more positions may be filled from this outreach effort. Permanent change of station (PCS) expenses will be covered and available to current federal career or career-conditional employees. The salary includes special salary rates for law enforcement officers and a locality payment.

Lake Roosevelt NRA is a dynamic, exciting and professional work environment where opportunities abound for career enhancement through on-the-job experience and proactive training opportunities. We are seeking applicants with strong investigative background, boating law enforcement, EMS, SAR, and good interpersonal skills. Applicants should also reflect a strong interest in team-oriented ranger operations and leadership. Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities in a diverse natural setting on a 131 mile long lake that is bordered by 312 miles of publicly owned shoreline, all of which is available for public use. With most of the acreage in the park being water, marine patrol is an essential function of the visitor and resource protection program. The park also actively manages over 250 known encroachments/trespasses in the park, concessions, cabin sites, and many other unique special park uses. The park also has special legislation allowing for hunting within its boundaries.

The Visitor and Resource Protection Division is comprised of a North District and a South District. There is one vacancy in each district.

  • South District — The Fort Spokane office is located 23 miles north of Davenport, a town of 1,700 people, offering restaurants, grocery stores, churches, schools (K-12), gas stations, a hospital and other services characteristic of a small, rural community. There are few services in the immediate vicinity of Fort Spokane. Major shopping services are available in Spokane (population 300,000) approximately 58 miles away. Additional services are available in the surrounding areas within a 50-90 mile radius. The typically dry summers average in the upper 80s to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • North District — The Kettle Falls District Office is located approximately three miles from the city of Kettle Falls (population 1,400). Kettle Falls provides schools K-12 with bus service, a variety of stores, gas stations, restaurants and motels. Colville (population 6,000) is approximately 11 miles from Kettle Falls and provides a community college, hospital, motels, restaurants, Walmart, golf course and a wide variety of shops. Spokane (population 500,000) is 80 miles away and provides all the amenities of a large city. The area is ideal for outdoor recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, hiking, hunting, bird and nature walks, snow skiing and water skiing.

You may visit our website at www.nps.gov/laro/ for more information.

Travel, transportation, and relocation expenses will be authorized. The following will be minimally required of candidates — background check, drug screening, acceptable physical clearance, acceptable fitness (PEB) score according to NPS standards, and an NPS law enforcement commission (Type I preferred).

To apply:

  • A detailed resume/application is acceptable. You may wish to utilize the Resume Builder available on the OPM USAJOBS website which allows you to create one uniform resume that would include all the crucial data required for a Federal application or you may include one you're created
  • A copy of your current Type I law enforcement commission and the following certifications if you possess one —NPS All-Hazards Incident Qualifications Grey Card, CPR, and EMS certification.
  • A copy of your current or latest performance appraisal.
  • A current SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action, documenting permanent competitive civil service status.

Interested applicants should submit their applications/resume and other information by the close of business, 4:30 p.m. Pacific time, Friday, May 29th to: NWSHRO_Staffing@nps.gov. Please be sure to include the following information in the subject line: LARO Lateral Protection Ranger.

For more information on these positions, please contact South District Ranger Bill Archard at (509)754-7885 or North District Ranger Ben McKay at (509)754-7861.


Devils Tower National Monument (WY)
GS-0303-5 Administrative Support Assistant

Devils Tower National Monument is seeking applicants for an administrative support assistant (OA) position.

The announcements, which follow, close on June 2nd:

Contact Sue Skrove at Devils Tower NM at 307-467-5283 x215.


Canyonlands National Park (UT)
GS-0810-12 Civil Engineer

Canyonlands National Park has issued all source and merit promotion announcements for a civil engineer.

Click on the links below for copies of the announcements with full details on duties, area information, and procedures for applying:

Both close on June 2nd.


North Cascades National Park (WA)
Stehekin District Ranger (Detail)

North Cascades National Park Complex is seeking candidates for a detail as the Stehekin District Ranger.

This opportunity is available to individuals in the National Park Service at the GS-9 level and above who wish to be considered for a temporary detail at the GS-11 level or a temporary promotion to the GS-11 level. This is a temporary developmental assignment up to 120 days, beginning in June. You will return to your regular duties at the end of the assignment.

The acting district ranger is responsible for providing oversight and management of the visitor and resource protection function and leading and supervising law enforcement and emergency services in the remote village of Stehekin, Washington. Area only accessible by air, 50 mile boat ride or 20+ mile foot trail.

The selectee will perform, plan, develop, direct and evaluate all aspects of district programs in the following areas: Law Enforcement and Investigations, Visitor & Resource Protection, Public Use Management, Campground Management, Emergency Services, Safety and Personnel Management within the Stehekin District of the North Cascades National Park Service Complex.

Supervises a seasonal staff of between 2-3 rangers.

During this assignment, for those on detail (already at the GS-11 level or above), salary will continue to be paid by the selectee's home park at the same rate. For those on temporary promotion (currently at the GS-09 level), salary will continue to be paid at the same rate by the selectee's home park/office, with the promotional difference paid by North Cascades National Park. Travel and per diem will be paid by North cascades (lodging provided in park housing, with reduced per diem consistent with NPS travel policies).

If you are interested in this developmental assignment, you must discuss this opportunity with your first-line supervisor and obtain concurrence from your manager prior to applying. Once approval is gained, you should submit:

  1. A resume, no more than two pages, detailing your work history, educational background, and any special qualifications.
  2. An SF-50 reflecting your tenure and current grade level

Submit your application materials electronically to nwshro_staffing@nps.gov, no later than close of business (4:30 p.m. PST Friday, May 29th

Please include "NOCA Acting District Ranger" in the subject line of the message. Please contact Chief Ranger Eric Gabriel at eric_gabriel@nps.gov or 360-854-7240 for any additional questions you may have about this developmental opportunity.