The Morning Report

Friday, June 05, 2015

INCIDENTS


Grand Canyon National Park (AZ)
Search Underway For Missing River Guide

A search is underway for 22-year-old M.H., a river guide for Tour West, who's been missing since Tuesday.

M.H. was reported missing by a member of the river trip he was guiding following a hike near Pumpkin Springs. The group was on the sixth day of an eight-day trip when the incident occurred.

Three ground teams and a river team searched for him yesterday. The teams were dealing with heat, thick stands of tamarisk, boulders, and difficult terrain, as well as deep water with a strong current. No signs of Hemier have yet been found.

M.H. is six feet tall and has blond hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing a dark-colored Astral personal flotation device, a blue plaid long sleeve shirt, a pair of Chaco sandals, a maroon baseball cap, and brightly colored shorts. He was also carrying a purple water bottle with him when he was last seen.

In addition to the search and rescue operation, the National Park Service is also conducting a missing persons investigation. Anyone with information on his location should contact the National Park Service Tipline at 928-638-7840.

[Submitted by Public Affairs Office]


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. PL 1 is in effect when the following criteria apply:

  • Minimal large fire activity nationally.
  • Most geographic areas have low to moderate fire danger.
  • There is little or no commitment of national resources.

Fire Weather Forecast

An upper level low will slowly drift across the southwest as a ridge builds over the Plains. Showers and thunderstorms will develop over the Rockies, much of the Great Basin and parts of interior California. Warm and humid conditions will continue across the Gulf Coast states. A trough in the East and a front stretching across the Midwest will bring showers and thunderstorms from the Mid-Mississippi and Tennessee Valleys to New England. Thunderstorms will also develop in Florida. Low pressure over Alaska will keep scattered showers and a few thunderstorms across the southern third of the state and parts of the central and eastern Interior.

A NOAA map of today's critical fire weather areas can be found at: http://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/fire_wx/fwdy1.html

A NIFC webpage showing the current national significant wildland fire outlook is available at: http://www.predictiveservices.nifc.gov/outlooks/outlooks.htm

Fire Summary (Five Day Trend)

Day
 Mon
 Tue
 Wed
 Thu
 Fri
Date
 6/1
 6/2
 6/3
 6/4
 6/5
Initial Attack Fires
 174
 96
 166
 81
 72
New Large Fires
 2
 2
 2
 1
 0
Large Fires Contained
 2
 0
 1
 0
 0
Uncontained Large Fires
 2
 4
 2
 3
 2

National Resource Commitments (Five Day Trend)

Day
 Mon
 Tue
 Wed
 Thu
 Fri
Date
 6/1
 6/2
 6/3
 6/4
 6/5
Area Command Teams
 0
 0
 0
 0
 0
NIMO Teams
 0
 0
 0
 0
 0
Type 1 Teams
 0
 0
 0
 0
 0
Type 2 Teams
 1
 1
 1
 1
 0

NPS Fire Summaries

Big Cypress NP — The Mud Lake Complex fires are now 90% contained. For additional information, including maps and photos, go to this InciWeb site.

North Cascades NP — Firefighters have begun active suppression of the Thunder Creek Fire. North Cascades smokejumpers were planning to parachute into the area yesterday to work beside Whiskeytown Fire Module firefighters who hiked in on Wednesday. Plans were in place for helicopter support, including slinging in sprinklers, pumps and hoses to help protect historic cabins in the area, but air support was weather dependent. Firefighters reported that the fire, which was smoldering during recent wet weather, has gradually grown to approximately 60 acres. The Thunder Creek Fire, first detected on May 30th, is burning in wilderness, with rocky, dangerous and steep terrain on the north and east but more access from the south flank. The decision to suppress the fire rather than let it play its natural role in the wilderness ecosystem was made in part because it started so early in the season and experts anticipate very high potential for wildfire this summer throughout the west. This could result in significant fire activity and growth throughout the west, with very few available firefighting resources later in the season. [Katy Hooper]

*****

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


NEWS AND NOTES


Office of International Affairs
Campaign Launched To Protect World Heritage Sites

A campaign has been begun to save world heritage sites threatened by extremists.

There have been many sad headlines in recent years about ancient sites destroyed or threatened by acts of extremists -- Timbuktu, the Bamiyan Buddhas, Nimrud, Palmyra and many others.

UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, works around the world to use culture as a tool to reconcile people and bring them together. The World Heritage List is one example of this and the National Park Service is actively involved in the World Heritage program including nominating U.S. sites for designation.

UNESCO also builds "coalitions for culture" that block the black market trade in cultural artifacts by coordinating the work of armed forces, Interpol, the World Customs Organization, museums, leading auction houses and national governments.

Now, UNESCO has started the #Unite4Heritage (http://www.unite4heritage.org/) campaign to build support for the protection of heritage in areas threatened by extremists. This campaign will be highlighted at the 39th session of the World Heritage Committee in Bonn, Germany, where staff of the NPS Office of International Affairs will form part of the official U.S. delegation.

"When violent extremists say humanity is not a single community that shares values, when they say world heritage doesn't exist, when they say pre-Islamic heritage is idolatry, when they say that diversity is dangerous, that tolerance and dialogue are unacceptable - we must respond," UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova stated at the launch of the #Unite4Heritage campaign at the Faculty of Arts of the University of Baghdad in Iraq in March.

The campaign is working to spread the word through Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. In order to show support, take a photo with a heritage site or artifact, and describe why it is important. By using the hashtag #Unite4Heritage, UNESCO and the global community can help share the values of tolerance, diversity and respect.

Learn more about the U.S. participation in the UNESCO World Heritage program at http://www.nps.gov/oia/topics/worldheritage/worldheritage.htm.

[Submitted by Jonathan Putnam, jonathan_putnam@nps.gov]

More Information...


Ulysses S Grant National Historic Site (MO)
Park Offers Programs To Ferguson Students

In August of 2014, as a result of the death of Michael Brown, protests, some peaceful, some not, erupted in Ferguson, Missouri. All facets of the community were affected by these demonstrations, including the schools.

Individuals, organizations and federal government agencies, including the National Park Service, sought to extend assistance to the Ferguson educators and their school children.

One National Park Service initiative began in January of this year in St. Louis at the location where the first Dred Scott trial was held.

Members of the National Alliance for Faith and Justice, the Ferguson-Florissant School District, and the National Park Service met to explore ways that all may participate in the healing process through the use of American history. Deputy Director Peggy O'Dell provided opening comments.

One result of that meeting was a pledge to bring every eighth grader from the Ferguson-Florissant School District to visit Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site last month.

After this initial meeting, the park invited members of the school district to the site to plan for the programs. These meetings ensured that the NPS program would support their curriculum. Additionally, the National Park Service and Jefferson National Parks Association collaborated to provide transportation.

In May, the park hosted nearly every Ferguson-Florissant eight grader, just over six hundred students. For many students, this visit represented their first National Park experience. The programs focused on the changing role of African Americans, before, during, and after the Civil War.

The park staff emphasized individual action — Grant's civil rights policies, African Americans fleeing slavery, joining the Union army, taking a stand, pursuing an education, and voting. The goal was to create an awareness of the parallels of the 1850s, 60s, and 70s and today.

The students were outstanding; they demonstrated keen interest and insight. The staff is hoping to provide these programs again next year, and perhaps continue them as an annual event.

[Submitted by Timothy Good, Superintendent]


United States Park Police
Horse Mounted Unit Honored At Preakness Stakes

Members of the United States Park Police Horse Mounted Patrol Unit and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police were recognized for their partnership and dedicated law enforcement service at the 140th Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course in Maryland on May 16th.

The officers and the USPP mounts entered the race track for a law enforcement recognition lap in between races 10 and 11 of the Preakness Stakes.

The officers were honored in front of the estimated record setting attendance of over 130,000 spectators, special guests, and dignitaries, including Canadian Ambassador Gary Doer and Maryland Governor Larry Hogan.

The officers and mounts crossed the finish line at a charming pace at this high profile horse event.

[Submitted by Lieutenant Brandi Adamchik ]


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

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 2 — 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.

July 16 — NPS Digital Servicewide Call/Webinar, 1—2 pm ET. Keep informed about the latest happenings in the NPS digital world on these 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).

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 4, September 15, and October 20 — The Art of Inquiry Webinar. This three-part interactive workshop explores how to best use questions to bring parties in conflict together and facilitate problem-solving, with a strong focus on how to effectively choose which questions to ask, why good problem-solvers choose those questions, and when different types of questions are most effective. Participants will practice with conflict scenarios and role plays, custom designed to match their particular workplace conflict experiences, to develop their own inquiry skills. Register no later than July 31st. For additional information, contact Katrina Roberts/202-354-1471 or Brigitte Keels 202-354-1406. For registration and/or announcement information you can go to https://gm2.geolearning.com/geonext/doi/login.geo and/or Catalog.

August 6 — Influencing Up Webinar. Leadership is largely about influence. In order to help accomplish the organization's mission and goals, leaders must be able to influence those who work for them as well as their bosses and peers. All leaders are faced on occasion with the tough task of "telling truth to power" and influencing up the chain of command, which can be especially difficult for them when the organization does not provide the necessary tools. Register no later than July 31st. For additional information, contact Katrina Roberts/202-354-1471 or Brigitte Keels 202-354-1406. For registration and/or announcement information you can go to https://doilearn.webex.com and/or Catalog.

August 11 — Ongoing Feedback and Communication Webinar. Whether we recognize it or not, we are constantly providing and receiving feedback. How we provide or receive that feedback will often spell the difference between success and failure. Participants in this workshop will develop communication skills for improving dialogue about performance through active listening and balancing advocacy and inquiry. They will learn and practice a six-step process for giving feedback, and will also learn to receive feedback in a constructive manner. Register no later than August 7, 2015. For additional information, contact Katrina Roberts/202-354-1471 or Brigitte Keels 202-354-1406. For registration and/or announcement information you can go to https://gm2.geolearning.com/geonext/doi/login.geo and/or Catalog.

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.

August 18 — From Buddy to Boss Webinar. The most important responsibility and challenge of any new supervisor is managing the mix of people, processes, and relationships. The relationships part becomes more difficult when a supervisor manages those who were once peers. Peer group sharing and camaraderie are important, now the new supervisor has to create and maintain boundaries while finding a new support system. Register no later than August 14th. 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.

September 2 — Career Development Webinar. This program is intended for those who wish to develop plans for managing their careers. The program uses a variety of exercises to help participants identify their skills and areas of interest, and to recognize abilities and strengths that they might not be using in their current jobs. Participants then learn steps for preparing and implementing. Register no later than August 28th. 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.

September 10 — Motivating and Empowering Employees Webinar. This course enables participants (supervisors and managers) to provide constructive criticism and positive feedback that recognizes and encourages good performance while offering suggestions for continued improvement. Participants will learn the communication techniques that motivate employees and positively influence their performance. Emphasis will be placed on understanding behavior and creating self-affirming environments. Register no later than September 4th. 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.

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 — September 18 — Structural Firefighter I, Gateway NRA, NY. This course is designed to provide basic structural firefighter training at the NFPA Firefighter I level. Upon completion of the class, and the associated course requirements, participants may qualify for Pro Board certification. Participants are provided with the minimum skills necessary to function safely and effectively as a member of a structural firefighting team under direct supervision. This is a blended course with online elements and a one week skills component which emphasizes manipulative skills essential for personal safety and efficiency in structural firefighting. Students will be presented with a comprehensive and strenuous hands-on curriculum that includes training scenarios and live-fire drills. Students will be afforded opportunities to develop and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to participate as a firefighter in support of structural fire suppression operations or wildland fire personnel involved in wildland urban interface fires or all-risk/all hazard dispatch assignments. Please register by August 3rd. For more information, contact Mark Gorman (208-473-8136 or Mark_Gorman@nps.gov) or visit 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 7 — October 8 — Professional Leadership Skills for Administrative and Support Personnel Webinar. As an administrative or support professional in today's workforce, current titles no longer adequately reflect the breadth and depth of the tasks actually managed. Today's jobs require not only complete mastery of traditional office skills, superior human relations insight, and extraordinary communication skills, but also the ability to assist in keeping the whole operation running smoothly during times of major change. Register no later than October 2nd. 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.

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


Midwest Region
GS-1102-7/9/11 Contract Specialist

Dates: 06/04/2015 - 06/11/2015

Midwest Region has issued an announcement for a contract specialist for the Major Acquisition Buying Office located in Omaha, Nebraska.

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

The announcement closes on Thursday, June 11th.

[Submitted by Barbara Golden, barbara_golden@nps.gov, 402-661-1642]

More Information...
Yosemite National Park (CA)
GS-0807-9/11/12 Term Landscape Architect

Yosemite National Park is seeking candidates interested in applying to a term landscape architect position.

The position is in the Division of Project Management with possible promotion potential to a GS-13. This is a full-time term position, not to exceed 13 months, with possible extensions up to a total of four years without further competitions (contingent upon funding availability).

The closing date of the announcement is Thursday, June 4th.

The main duties of the person selected will be to support project work related to planning, design and construction management of multi-year projects such as the implementation of projects associated with the Merced River Plan, Tuolumne River Plan, restoration of the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, Yosemite Environmental Education Campus, and Concession Franchise Fee Program.

The Division of Project Management's office is located in El Portal, approximately 30 minutes west of Yosemite Valley. Housing is not provided. Non-government housing is available in the local communities (e.g. Mariposa, Midpines).

Full details can be found at https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/403958200

For more information regarding this position, contact Cheri Murdock, Management Assistant, Division of Project Management, at 209-379-1138 or cheri_murdock@nps.gov.


Intermountain Region
GS-0025-11 Supervisory Interpretive Ranger

Dates: 05/23/2015 - 06/05/2015

Fort Laramie National Historic Site is seeking applicants to fill a supervisory interpretive ranger position. The announcement closes on June 5th.

For detailed information on duties, qualification requirements and how to apply, click on link below.

[Submitted by Lorraine Atencio-Curry, lorraine_atencio-curry@nps.gov, (303) 969-2629]

More Information...


North Cascades National Park (WA)
GS 6 Administrative Support Assistant (Lateral)

North Cascades National Park is seeking candidates for a lateral transfer to an administrative support assistant position at the GS-06 level.

North Cascades National Park spans the Cascade Crest from the temperate rainforest of the wet west-side to the dry ponderosa pine ecosystem of the east. The Complex encompasses landscapes with over 9000 feet of vertical relief. This results in a high diversity of plants, over 1600 species so far identified, and many other organisms adapted to a wide spectrum of habitats. For more information on North Cascades National Park, please visit http://www.nps.gov/noca.

This position is assigned to the Administration Division located at Park Headquarters. Sedro-Woolley, Washington is the "Gateway" to the North Cascades and upper Skagit Valley and is headquarters for North Cascades National Park. Sedro-Woolley has a population of approximately 9,000. Most services are available in Sedro-Woolley, including banking, medical, hospital, and schools. Other major shopping is available in the town of Burlington and Mount Vernon, approximately 5-10 miles from Sedro-Woolley. Mount Vernon is the largest city (population of 26,000) in Skagit County and Burlington has a population of 7,000. Government housing is not available, but rentals are available in the Sedro-Woolley area ranging from $700 to $1000 per month. Seattle, Washington, is located approximately 70 miles south of Sedro-Woolley and Vancouver, British Columbia, is approximately 75 miles north.

A brief description of the duties:

  • Coordinate procurement and account information with clerical and administrative staff throughout the park.
  • Process Goods Receipts and Service Entry Sheets within FBMS to support procurement operations.
  • Prepares routine correspondence, compiles and edit program updates and other informational documents and maintain filing systems for paper and electronic records.
  • Uses computers, electronic database systems and other appropriate computer software to maintain central division files and office files, including contract and project files.

Park housing is not available. Move costs are not authorized for this position.

Those interested in applying for the position should submit the following no later than close of business June 12th:

  • Detailed Resume, including current and past supervisors names and current phone numbers
  • Current SF 50 (Notification of Personnel Action)
  • Current performance evaluation

Application packages must be submitted by email to: >NWSHRO_Staffing@nps.gov

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Barry Fetzer, Contracting Officer at Barry_Fetzer@nps.gov or 360-854-7219


Lake Meredith National Recreation Area (TX)
GL-0025-9 Protection Ranger (Lateral)

Lake Meredith is seeking candidates for a lateral to a GL-9 protection ranger position.

Lake Meredith National Recreation Area and Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument, located in the northern Texas Panhandle, encompass about 45,000 acres, with 7,000 acres of reservoir and 1,100 acres of monument. Annual visitation is about a million people.

The park has a very active visitor and resource protection program, including boat patrol, ORV enforcement, hunting enforcement, search and rescue, diving (multi-agency dive team), emergency medical services, drug interdiction, archeological resource protection, and support of prescribed and wildland fires, as well as other resource management programs. The park has traditionally supported the regional SET Team with rangers and the person selected for this position can apply to SETT. Lake Meredith is a ranger development park, with past in-service trainings held with the FBI, DEA, Trident Concepts and TTOS, just to name a few partners.

Jurisdiction is concurrent. The park works closely with three county sheriff's offices, two city police departments, and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department game wardens. The park's fire program provides opportunities to assist with and gain experience in prescribed and wild land fire.

There is no park housing but the cost of living is low. Older homes range from $30 to $35 per square foot, with the newer homes running from $50 to $75 per square foot. The Sanford-Fritch elementary school (kindergarten through fifth grade) has approximately 338 students, the junior high (sixth through eighth grade) has approximately 197 students, and the high school has approximately 259 students. Daycare and after-school programs are available in Fritch and Borger. Fritch has a few restaurants, some churches, financial institutions, a grocery store, and a Dollar General store. The population of Fritch is approximately 1,600 and Borger is approximately 15,000.

The parks is 35 minutes from Amarillo, which offers the closest airport, all the shopping you want, as well as Amarillo College. It's also within commuting distance to West Texas A&M University and Texas Tech University.

Lake Meredith is also 15 minutes from the city of Borger, offering Frank Phillips College, grocery stores, churches, and the closest Wal-Mart. It's approximately three hours to Lubbock, four hours to Santa Fe, five hours to Albuquerque or Oklahoma City, and six hours to Dallas or Denver. The elevation averages 3,000 feet. The climate is semi-arid with average precipitation of 21 inches. The average temperature is 58 degrees, with summer extremes in the 100 degree range and winter extremes around 0 degrees.

If you're interested, please submit the following:

  • Resume, or equivalent. Please include all experience, training, and/or education related to the position.
  • Copy of most recent SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action.
  • Verification of valid NPS law enforcement commission.

To: Chief Ranger Paul D. Jones, Lake Meredith NRA paul_jones@nps.gov no later than June 30, 2015.