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This is the Notification List for the Brush Pile Building & Burning Class, a training opportunity for experienced FPCC Ecological Stewardship Volunteers with 15+ hours of reported stewardship experience or the recommendation of FPCC staff or Site Steward.To register for the Sunday, February 17 class click here.
Ongoing Opportunity
Unlimited Positions available!
Contact person for opportunity
This class is offered several times throughout the year. To see if there are any available dates, click on the website at the bottom of this page. * Learn how to properly construct, safely ignite, monitor and secure brush piles * Learn the pre and post-burn communication requirements * Learn how to utilize weather data and to make site observations that will inform decisions at workdays * This class, a written test and two field observations are required to become a Brush Pile Burn Boss * Fulfills one of the three class requirements to become a Stewardship Workday Leader * MUST HAVE RECORDED AT LEAST 15 HOURS ONLINE AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION Click "SIGN UP" to be put on a wait list and you will be notified when a class is posted and you can sign up for it (about 45-60 days before the class date).
This is the Notification List for Brushcutter Training, a training opportunity for experienced FPCC Ecological Stewardship Volunteers with 30+ hours of reported stewardship experience or the recommendation of FPCC staff or a Site Steward.
This class is typically offered in January, July and October * There will be a classroom review of safety issues, proper maintenance, including blade changing and sharpening and a field portion demonstrating proper operation, followed by practice time for each participant * Wear sturdy leather boots and outdoor clothing to the training * MUST HAVE RECORDED AT LEAST 30 HOURS ONLINE To see if there are any available dates, click on the website at the bottom of this page. Click "APPLY" to be put on a wait list and you will be notified when a class is posted and you can sign up for it (about 45-60 days before the class date).
This is the Notification List for Chainsaw Training - Safety Assistant, a training opportunity for experienced FPCC Ecological Stewardship Volunteers with 15+ hours of reported stewardship experience or the recommendation of FPCC staff or a Site Steward.
* Classroom and fieldwork experience provide an overview of safe and effective chainsaw operation at FPCC Stewardship Sites and basic maintenance * Feller I sawyers may fell trees up to 6" DBH when expressly permitted in a site's management schedule * The Classroom portion and a written exam will certify you as a Chainsaw Safety Assistant * Feller I position requires a FPCC Resource Management-administered field observation and skills test * Kevlar boots and other PPE will be provided for the field observation * MUST HAVE RECORDED AT LEAST 30 HOURS ONLINE AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION To see if there are any available dates, click on the website at the bottom of this page. Click "APPLY" to be put on a wait list and you will be notified when a class is posted and you can sign up for it (about 45-60 days before the class date).
Chicago Wilderness will offer the Midwest Ecological Prescription Burn Crew Member Training class. Based on the National Wildfire Coordinating Group's (NWCG) S-130 and S-190 courses, this training covers the basics of such topics as fire behavior, controlled burn techniques, and smoke management. The objective is to provide participants with the background necessary to safely participate on the crew of a controlled burn.
Please be aware that although the training is accepted by many of the natural resource management agencies in the CW region as the minimum training required for a participant on a burn crew, it does not carry the official NWCG certification.
If you already have your CW certificate, you can upload it, to your FPCC Volunteer profile.
This training is required to become a FPCC Prescription Burn Volunteer. Volunteer: Must attend and complete the Chicago Wilderness Prescription Burn Training. Then upload certificate to FPCC Volunteer profile. Sign-up for Prescription Burn Volunteers.
The Forest Preserves of Cook County offers many educational opportunities. Classes are taught by district employees and most offer the opportunity to earn certified arborist CEUs.November: Getting Familiar with Forested WetlandsDecember: Winter Tree and Shrub ID
Frequency:
November: Getting Familiar with Forested Wetlands Come and learn the basics of wetland delineation as tailored to forested wetlands. We will discuss the types of forested wetlands within the Preserves, and their native associates. The outdoor component for this class will delve into hydric soils and hydrology indicators. December: Winter Tree and Shrub ID Winter is a great time for brush removal and restoration work- and for improving your woody plant id skills! This class will focus on how to identify native and non-native trees and shrubs by taking a closer look at the bark, seeds, and buds. The second portion of this class will be held outside as we practice tricks to identify trees & shrubs without their leaves.
Schedule Slots Available!
National Safety Council First Aid/CPR training class for Forest Preserve staff and volunteers with at least 15 hours of service
This opportunity has a schedule. Click view schedule belowon the left to see available times.
Secondary contact
Weekday classes are typically offered once per month. Saturday classes in 2019 will be: March 30, May 18, September 14, and October 26 You can sign up for a class 90 days ahead of time. * MUST BE FPCC STAFF OR A VOLUNTEER WITH AT LEAST 15 HOURS RECORDED ONLINE * Bring your own lunch - 1/2 hour lunch break * Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
We are holding two testing sessions on March 29th at Salt Creek Resource Management at 500 Ogden Avenue, Western Springs, IL. REGISTER HERETo find out about other local testing options visit www.pesticidesafety.illinois.edu. You will have to pay the $15 fee for each category you would like to test in. We highly recommend taking the General Standards & Right-A-Away.
The Forest Preserves of Cook County hosts Pesticide test sessions and Pesticide Test Prep classes every November and December to help experienced FPCC Ecological Stewardship Volunteers earn an Illinois Pesticide (Herbicide) License. 15+ hours of reported stewardship experience or the recommendation of FPCC staff or a site steward is required for enrollment. This license is required for Ecological Stewardship Volunteers who want to apply herbicide at restoration sites To see if there are any available dates, click on the website at the bottom of this page. See the attachment "document" above for details of other ways to get certified. Click "APPLY" to be put on a wait list and you will be notified when a class is posted and you can sign up for it (about 45-60 days before the class date).
The Illinois Butterfly Monitoring Network is a diverse group of volunteers who identify and count butterflies on more than 400 routes on sites in Illinois. Volunteers collect data that are valuable to scientists, researchers and land managers in evaluating how restoration practices and other changes affect butterfly populations.Website: bfly.orgThese training workshops are recommended for butterfly monitors interested in advancing beyond the beginner's checklist and monitors needing to review protocol and identification.
Registration is required.
This is the Notification List for the Managing Invasives class, a training opportunity for experienced FPCC Ecological Stewardship Volunteers with 15+ hours of reported stewardship experience or the recommendation of FPCC staff or a Site Steward.To register for the Managing Invasives IN-PERSON class on February 17, 2019, register here.
This class is typically offered in Spring and Summer. To see if there are any available dates, click on the website at the bottom of this page. * Learn the difference between native, non-native and invasive plants * Learn how to identify invasive plants commonly encountered at stewardship sites * Learn best management practices and how to effectively treat invasive species * Training includes classroom experience and outdoor field component * Certification requires passing a written exam and two field observations * Fulfills one of the three class requirements to become a Stewardship Workday Leader * MUST HAVE RECORDED AT LEAST 15 HOURS ONLINE AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION Click "SIGN UP" to be put on a wait list and you will be notified when a class is posted and you can sign up for it (about 45-60 days before the class date).
Sign up to hear about upcoming training dates to become a Nature Ambassador outreach Volunteer. You may also sign up for upcoming tabling opportunities get practice before taking the training. At the training, we'll discuss how each of us fits into supporting the mission of the Forest Preserves and how to maximize our engagement with the public.A Nature Ambassador Outreach Volunteer represents the Forest Preserves at community events and internal Forest Preserve events. They convey information about Forest Preserves programs and opportunities by handing out informational materials, answering basic questions and signing people up for the Forest Way newsletter.A Nature Ambassador Supporter is a representative of a group or community who builds and maintains a relationship between the Forest Preserves and their group/community.Required Skills and Knowledge:· Passion for getting people connected with the Forest Preserves· Understand the Forest Preserves mission and the difference between Preserves and Parks· Know that the FPCC is a separate body from Cook County Government· Understand that the FPCC is divided by zones· Awareness of available Educational, Recreational and Volunteer opportunities· Comfortable engaging and sharing information with the general public
Dates: 30 Jul 2018 - 1 Dec 2020
A Nature Ambassador Outreach Volunteer represents the Forest Preserves at community events and internal Forest Preserve events. They convey information about Forest Preserves programs and opportunities by handing out informational materials, answering basic questions and signing people up for the Forest Way newsletter. A Nature Ambassador Supporter is a representative of a group or community who builds and maintains a relationship between the Forest Preserves and their group/community.
**Register for this opportunity to be notified when the Morton Arboretum Rx Training is Available**Chicago Wilderness will offer the Midwest Ecological Prescription Burn Crew Member Training in late September, early October. This training is based on the National Wildfire Coordinating Group's (NWCG) S-130 and S-190 courses, this training covers the basics of such topics as fire behavior, controlled burn techniques, and smoke management. The objective is to provide participants with the background necessary to safely participate on the crew of a controlled burn.
If you already have your CW certificate, you can upload it, to your FPCC Volunteer profile and then you can place yourself in this opportunity to record your hours.
Be a part of our rapidly-growing community of Trail Watch Volunteers. Attending a Trail Watch New Volunteer Training session is required to be a Trail Watch Volunteer for 2018. Learn about the program, meet Police and Volunteer Resource Staff and socialize with fellow volunteers.
Dates: 1 Sep 2013 - 1 Feb 2021
Become additional eyes and ears of our Law Enforcement Department. Be a visible presence to help make our preserves welcoming and inviting to all visitors, as you are out enjoying the preserves. A background check is required, see the attached document for a full Trail Watch Volunteer position description. This new Volunteer Training will be taught in January, April, July and October. New training dates coming soon!
Position Description
This is the Notification List for the Trail Watch - New Volunteer Training. You can also see if there are any currently scheduled classes.Be a part of the Trail Watch Volunteer Program. Attendance at a Trail Watch Volunteer New Volunteer Training session is required to be a Trail Watch Volunteer. Learn about the program, meet key people and socialize with fellow volunteers.
The 2018 classes will be offered in January, April, July and October. Become additional eyes and ears of our Law Enforcement Department. Be a visible presence to help make our Preserves welcoming and inviting to all visitors, as you enjoy your favorite outdoor activities. A background check is required. See the attached document for a full Trail Watch Volunteer position description.
Turnbull Woods oak woodland ecosystem is being restored to new health! Invasive shrubs have been removed bringing needed sunlight to wildflowers, grasses and oak seedlings. We will look for the ripening seeds of native wildflowers under the oaks. Help us "close the loop" between invasive species removal and native species renewal.
All participants should dress for a day of outdoor walking. Please wear shoes/boots that may get muddy and long pants. Some binoculars will be available or bring your own. Please pre-register. Thank you!
This is the Notification List for the Group Leadership Class, a training opportunity for experienced FPCC Ecological Stewardship Volunteers with 15+ hours of reported stewardship experience or the recommendation of FPCC staff or Site Steward.
This class is typically offered in April, August and November. Class Description and Requirements: * Learn the fundamentals of planning and leading successful volunteer projects * Learn how to take on a leadership role * Learn about the policies and procedures relevant to volunteer leadership in the forest preserves * Training includes classroom experience; certification requires passing a written exam * Fulfills one of the three class requirements to become a Stewardship Workday Leader * Must be a current Stewardship Volunteer * MUST HAVE RECORDED AT LEAST 15 HOURS ONLINE AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION Click "Sign Up" to be put on a wait list and you will be notified when a class is posted and you can sign up for it (about 15-45 days before the class date).
