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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).
Schedule Slots Available!
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.June: Removing Invaders to Promote Healthy Hedges
This opportunity has a schedule. Click view schedule belowon the left to see available times.
National Safety Council First Aid/CPR training class for Forest Preserve staff and volunteers with at least 15 hours of service
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
These gatherings are an opportunity to provide Volunteer Leaders to meet with their Regional Ecologist, Project Management and Volunteer Resources staff. The plan is to gather for about an hour to talk about regional common issues and answer questions, etc. Afterwards, we will then walk the site with the local Site Steward and the Ecologist to further discuss specific site issues, successes, and volunteer accomplishments. This is a great opportunity to learn more about a specific Forest Preserve and enjoy it amongst volunteer colleagues. We hope that you can make it to your regional meeting and you are more than welcomed to attend other regional meetings as well!
*Must sign up online *Must be a current Forest Preserve Stewardship Volunteer *Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are recommended.
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).
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
Frequency:
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.
Herbicide applications are an important tool to managing invasive species and improving the ecological health of our Forest Preserves. The Practical Herbicide Class offered with the Forest Preserves of Cook County covers herbicide application in natural areas and aims to provide licensed herbicide applicators and operators with the practical knowledge to make good herbicide decisions. If you have become a licensed for the first time or if you are a state certified Applicator/Operator needing a refresher, this class is for you. Or you must be interested in obtaining an Alternative License which enables you to apply herbicide under an Applicator who brings herbicide to your site.
This training will cover: Controlling invasives with herbicides Management Schedule and Plans State Licensing, Testing and Renewal Overview of types of herbicides available from FPCC Herbicide application methods Overview of application tools and supplies available from FPCC Storage, transportation, mixing and disposal Herbicide labels and Safety Data Sheets Environmental safety and personal safety Signage and recordkeeping This training will also include a field portion - please dress appropriately for the weather. PREREQUISITE: You need to be placed in the Herbicide Operator or Herbicide Applicator opportunity or interested in the Alternative license to be able to sign up
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. 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).
