VOLUNTEERS IN PARKS (VIP) program

Danny and Roy work to haul a bridge section out of the Santa Cruz River.  These wooden sections are tethered to trees so they are not lost during flooding events. 

This section of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, between the border with Mexico and Amado, Arizona was created and is maintained by volunteers.  Volunteering through the NPS Volunteers in Parks (VIP) program comes with responsibilities that all volunteers are required to follow.

VOLUNTEERS-in-PARKS BASIC RESOURCES include:

  • 301a Volunteer Agreement Form.   Completion is required annually for all volunteers
  • 301b Volunteer Group Roster.  This should be used in conjunction with Form 301a when registering groups
  • Job Descriptions can be printed and attached to the 301a Agreement form or used as reference.  
  • Professionalism in the Workforce.  This document describes the ethics, integrity, and professionalism that is expected of all our volunteers 
  • Volunteer Safety Handbook includes important information about safety, the safe use of tools and equipment, and injury reporting instructions
  • TrailSafe! videos (below under Trail Crew Safety) are highly recommended for all volunteers.

TRAIL CREW SAFETY SECTION RESOURCES include:

  • Trail Crew Safety Handbook.  This handbook details the tools, their uses, the hazards associated with their use, and special  personal protective equipment required for their use.  It details injury reporting and special equipment use training requirements.    
  • Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs).  These identify steps in an activity, the potential hazards, and recommendations to avoid hazards.
  • TrailSafe! Videos.  These are 8 self-study videos which capture the core concepts of NPS safety and leadership principles/practices.
  • GAR Risk Assessment:  Trail Crew leadership is expected to complete and share a risk assessment before each work party.
  • Injury Reporting Form:  These are the required and recommended policies and procedures, especially for chainsaw use.