Volunteer Training Resources
Hours spent on these resources can be added to your volunteer profile! Report them to miss_volunteer@nps.gov.
Mississippi Park Connection and the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area are committed to addressing the systemic and structural racism that is embedded in the history of the park system, and that contributes to inequity in the environmental sector today. The first step in this process is to educate ourselves and our volunteers. If you would like to join us in this work, you can start with these recommended resources.
Winter Tree ID Virtual Training
Over the winter of 2021, we trained volunteers to identify trees at Crosby Farm Regional Park, as well as Coldwater Spring. These videos are recordings of our virtual sessions in which we cover ID tips and tricks, and explore the ten species of trees in more depth!
Eppley Institute - NPS History
The Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands produced a learning series about the history of the National Park Service for the NPS centennial. This course is available to everyone at no cost!
Coffee With A Ranger
Coffee With A Ranger is a series of live-streamed videos on the MISS Facebook page. They are excellent resources with information and interpretation straight from our local park rangers. You can watch live on the park’s Facebook page on Friday at 10 AM CST.
Mississippi River Basics
Want to impress your friends and other volunteers with your river knowledge? This is the place to start. Many frequently asked questions can be answered here.
State of the River Report
A report on 14 key indicators of water quality and ecological health in the river including fish consumption, bald eagles, pesticides, and bacteria. The 2016 State of the River report is the 2nd edition. The first edition can be found on this page as well.
River of History
The Historic Resources Study of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area was developed in 2003 by the National Park Servive in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Topics include geology, sociology, and the development of the Twin Cities around the Mississippi River.
Eppley Institute - Interpretation
This is another free training through the Eppley Institute that covers the development and completion of interpretive programs. As leaders at habitat restoration events and interpreters at visitor centers, these skills are extremely handy!