Training3

Refuge Orientation and Customer Service Training

This seven hour class provides prospective volunteers with an orientation to the mission, facilities, and programs of Patuxent Research Refuge. Volunteer opportunities, expectations, and training requirements are also includes training to remind participants of how important terrific customer service is to the Refuge and its place in the community and in the Fish and Wildlife Service. Rules of customer service are practiced. During the class, volunteers learn the "behind-the scenes" workings of the Visitor Center. introducing volunteers who will be performing activities on the North Tract, the lay out of the Visitor Contact Station, and processes to ensure volunteer safety.

Visitor Center/South Tract Trail Monitor Training

By becoming familiar with all of the trails on the South Tract, some of the natural phenomenon, safety issues, and public use regulations, volunteers will be better prepared to assist visitors on the trails.

North Tract Trail Monitor Training

Participants are familiarized with issues related to directions/maps, safety. law enforcement. and public use regulations in order to assist visitors on the trails.

Calling Frog Surveyor Refresher and Training

Volunteers will learn about data collection, record keeping, frog identification, behavior, natural history, and vocalizations.

Basking Turtle Surveyor Refresher and Training

Participants will learn about data collection, record keeping, turtle identification, behavior, natural history, and species found on the Refuge.

Biological Data Collection Training

Participants will learn how to safely and efficiently remove jaw bones from harvested deer and record accurate sex, age, and condition data for each specimen. Also, ageing and sexing of geese will be covered.

Songbird Nest Box Monitor Training Volunteers will learn about the common species of small nesting songbirds on the refuge. Species behaviors, markings for identification, monitoring requirements, and data recording will be covered.

Herpetological Surveyor Training - Not presently conducted

Volunteers will learn about the common species of amphibians and reptiles on the refuge, their behavior. and natural history. Also, participants will learn how to do area searches, identify species, collect data and keep records.

Tram Interpreter Training for General Tours

Using thematic interpretation, learn to tell the story of how the lands in and around the refuge have changed and how those changes have affected wild Ii life-c Relate how public involvement was critical to the creation of the National Wildlife Refuge System. Describe how Patuxent manages a diversity of habitats to provide for a diversity of wildlife. And instill in visitors how research, wildlife management practices, and public involvement continue to be the most effective tools for conservation. Make visitors aware of a variety of ways they can get involved, such as through volunteering and providing wildlife habitat in their yards.