1DPG: Denbigh Volunteer Interpretive Host

Denbigh Volunteer Interpretive Host

Service Description

DENBIGH EXPERIMENTAL FOREST BACKGROUND:

The Denbigh Experimental Forest, part of the Sheyenne Ranger District on the Dakota Prairie Grasslands. It is approximately 640 acres in size and is a mix of tree and prairie settings. In 1931 the US Forest Service and the State of North Dakota acquired T l 56N, R78E Section 36 to develop an experimental forest. Forest and shelterbelt experimentations took place there as well as other functions. Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) workers constructed the facilities at Denbigh Station which included a headquarters/bunkhouse, garage, storage/implement shed, windmill generator to provide electricity, and potable water well. Construction took place from 1931 - 1932. Denbigh's original mission was to determine which types of trees, mainly conifers, grew well in North Dakota and other Great Plains states. The original facilities (minus the windmill) as well as many of the trees and their progeny remain on site today.

VOLUNTEER POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Denbigh Volunteer Interpretive Host will provide key services focused on Denbigh site protection and interpretation to preserve and communicate the rich natural and cultural history of the Denbigh Experimental Forest. The host's emphasis will be on interpreting the area's natural and cultural resources, environmental education, visitor safety, and resource protection.

A minimum three month commitment from within the May through September timeframe is requested.

SERVICE DUTIES:

Host may perform all of the following services:

• Greet and provide orientation and interpretive opportunities for visitors to the Denbigh Experimental Forest. These orientations enable visitors to understand site history and natural setting. Orientations will also communicate interpretive opportunities such as the Joseph Stoeckler Arboretum.
• Distribute interpretative materials on historic resources, watchable wildlife, area information, native and introduced vegetation, etc.
• Be readily available to receive comments and questions from the public.
• Provide copies and articulate requirements of the Motor Vehicle Use Map to visitors.
• Pick up litter.
• Check, stock and clean vaulted toilet.
• Maintain day use area, trailheads and trails by mowing and small woody debris removal.
• Clean the headquarters cabin, shop and shed.
• Notify law enforcement and the District Ranger when emergencies arise or when activities at the Denbigh Experimental Forest warrant notification.
• DAILY CHECK IN AND CHECK OUT DURING SCHEDULED WORK DAYS.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Teamwork: All volunteers must show a willingness to work and get along with a variety of co-workers and public

Professional Image: In the eyes of the public, the volunteer is the USFS. As such, volunteers are expected to present a professional image of the USFS in their dress, grooming, and demeanor.

Customer Service: A genuine desire to ensure that each member of the public visiting the Denbigh Experimental Forest has an enjoyable experience is essential.

Physical Ability: The ability to conduct cleaning and mowing services which include such activities as scrubbing, bending, lifting (up to 25 lbs), etc. is required.

SERVICE DUTY SCHEDULE:

The volunteer host must be flexible enough to handle variations in work routine caused by weather, shifting priorities and public visitor needs.

Duty hours normally occur during daylight hours. However, on occasion, the host may be requested to work for special evening events.

The host will almost always work weekends and holidays in order to overlap with times of highest public use of the Denbigh Experimental Forest.

The Denbigh Volunteer Interpretive Host living on-site will be expected to contribute a minimum of 25 hours/week depending on visitation and weather (Thursday through Monday at 5 hours/day).

AGENCY PROVIDED AMENITIES:

Housing within the Denbigh cabin is provided free of charge for the volunteer host. The five room cabin has electricity, full bathroom, stone fireplace and basic amenities (refrigerator, cooking utensils, electric stove/oven, bed, etc.). Laundry facilities are not provided but are available in nearby Minot or Rugby, ND.

SUPERVISION:

The Denbigh Volunteer Interpretive Host is supervised by the Recreation Management Specialist. The Recreation Management Specialist will arrange work priorities and training of the host.

DENBIGH EXPERIMENTAL FOREST INTERPRETIVE PROGRAM MISSION:

The Dakota Prairie Grasslands seeks to utilize the Denbigh Experimental Forest's unique natural and historic resources to provide a broad spectrum of interpretive opportunities that inform, inspire and involve a diverse public in the stewardship of National Grasslands resources.

For further information, please contact: Aaron Gaither

Recreation Management Specialist

Sheyenne Ranger District

701-683-4342 or [email protected]