Attachment C - CA NRCS STAR Curriculum2018.pdf

Supporting

Technical

Assistance

Results

December 2018

Table of Contents

I. Agronomy 4

II. Air Quality 8

III. Climate Change 11

IV. Conservation Planning 14

V. Conservation Desktop, Toolkit, and GIS 23

VI. Cultural Resources 25

VIII. Environmental Compliance 27

IX. Forestry 30

X. Plant Materials 40

XI. Range/ Pasture 41

XII. Soils 48

XIII. Wildlife 51

XIV. Contact Information 59

Acronyms

TOT Training of Trainers

JAA Job Approval Authority

OJT On the Job Training

TBD To Be Determined

NEDC National Employee Development Center

SVAP Stream Visual Assessment Protocol

PMC Plant Materials Center

WCC Wetland Conservation Compliance

NEPA National Environmental Policy Act

EE Environmental Evaluation

CAP Conservation Activity Plan

AgEMP Agricultural Energy Management Plan

Curriculum Information

Mission

“Helping people help the land”

Goal

conservation.

Summary/Introduction

Tom Hedt

State Resource Conservationist

Agronomy

Lead Specialist: Hudson Minshew

Notes: The Agronomy Curriculum has three sub‐categories. The first two categories are part of the Conservation Planner Designation Curricula and are considered basic. You can take courses or complete activities in multiple categories (you do not have to finish one category to go on to the next), but you should complete courses/activities under each sub‐category in the following order: all basic first, then intermediate, and then advanced.

Sub‐ Category 1: Basic Agronomy and Soil Principles for Planners

Basic Objective: The courses in this section are to help planners have a fundamental understanding of agronomic principles and be conversant and knowledgeable with farmers and take steps to develop con‐ servation plans with agronomic practices.

Basic Courses / Activities

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Overview of Water Quality Resource Assessment *

Training Module

Online (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00) Apprentice Planner Requirement

NRCS‐NHQ‐000038

Nitrogen Management and Concerns*

Training Module

Online (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00) Apprentice Planner Requirement

NRCS‐NHQ‐000038

Phosphorous Management and

Concerns*

Training Module

Online (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00) Apprentice Planner Requirement

NRCS‐NHQ‐000038

Sediment Management*

Training Module

Online (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00)

NRCS‐NHQ‐000041

Water Bodies* Training Module

Online (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00)

NRCS‐NHQ‐000042

Pest Management and Water Quality Implications*

Training Module

Online (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00)

NRCS‐NHQ‐000043

Water Management* Training Module

Online (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00)

NRCS‐NHQ‐000044

Basic Courses / Activities (cont)

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Nutrient Management Track 1, Part 1*

Training Module

Online (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 8.00)

NRCS‐NHQ‐000083

Pest Management, Track 2, Part 1*

Training Module

Online (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 8.00)

NRCS‐NHQ‐000085

Montana State University, Soil & Water Self Study, Module 1, Basic Soil Properties

Training Module

Online Basic Soil Properties

Montana State University, Soil & Water

Self Study, Module 3, Managing for Soil

Erosion

Training Module

Online Managing for Soil Erosion

* Required Courses for Conservation Planner Certification

Sub Category 2 – Cropping Systems

Basic Objective: Understand principles of horticulture and the basics of tillage equipment.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Plant Biology – Intro to Horticulture, UC Master‐

Gardener, Ch. 2

Reading Sharepoint Plant Biology/Available upon request

Tillage Equipment Pocket Guide

Self‐study eFOTG eFOTG Section1

Intermediate Courses / Activities

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Cover Crops: Read Abdul‐ Baki & Teasdale cover crop publication. 2007

Reading Sharepoint Crop Systems/Available upon request

Develop two conserva‐ tion plans that in‐ clude cover crop, crop rotation, mulching, or residue and tillage management

Plan OJT Multiple

Advanced Objective: Staff will be able to advise and train others related to cropping systems issues & planning as a result of gaining proficiency in the proper use of planning tools (RUSLE2, WEPS, Win‐PST), and have an understanding of the complexities of the management of a local cropping system.

Advanced Courses / Activities

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Pest Management track 2, part 1 (module

7) – one day on‐site workshop to meet the requirements for 595 certification

Course Classroom Various Locations

Erosion Modeling in Toolkit/ArcGIS for both water and wind erosion—Integrated Erosion Tool (IET)

Course Webinar and

OJT

IET Community Page

Erosion Modeling for water erosion—RUSLE2

Online OJT S & T Library

Agricultural Research Service

NRCS RUSLE2 Support

Erosion Modeling for wind erosion—WEPS

Online OJT NRCS WEPS Support

S & T Webinar

Develop two conser‐ va‐ tion plans using IET, RUSLE2 or WEPS

Plan OJT

Module

TBD

Sub‐ Category 3: Soil Fertility

Basic Objective: Staff will be competent and confident in having soil fertility conversations with customers.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Plant Nutrition and Soil Fertility Module 2

Module Online MT State: Plant Nutrition and Soil Fertility

Managing Cover Crops for Nutrient Manage‐ ment ‐ a Farmer’s

Presentation Webinar NRCS Science and Technology Training Library

Sub‐ Category 3: Soil Fertility (cont)

Intermediate Objective: Staff will be able to identify management alternatives leading to planning that addresses resource concerns. Knowledge gained will include an understanding of the “4Rs” of nutrient management, how to develop a nutrient budget, and co‐managing nutrients and water.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Read Nutrient Manage‐ ment chapter in NRCS National Agronomy

Manual.

Reading Online NRCS National Agronomy Manual, 4th ed.

Sub‐part 503C

Include 590 (Nutrient Management) in a con‐ servation plan

Plan OJT Multiple

CA NRCS Nutrient Man‐ agement Budgeting

Guide training

Course Webinar Local

Advanced Objective: Staff will be able to advise and train others related to soil fertility issues & planning by gaining knowledge of soil/plant/nutrient relations, and developing nutrient manage‐ ment plans using 590 on systems that include multiple crops and nutrient sources.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

4R Site Specific Nutri‐ ent Management – 10 modules

Training Module

Online Science & Technology Training Library

Montana State Univer‐ sity, Soil & Water Self Study Manures and Bio‐ solids: Regulations and Manage‐ ment. Module

13 only.

Training Module

Online MT State: Nutrient Management Modules

Develop two conserva‐ tion plans that include nutrient management for multiple nutrient sources and crops

Notes: The Air Quality Curriculum provides multiple course activities and objectives to help better understand the treatments and practices to address the NRCS air quality resource concerns: ozone precursors, particulate matter, odors, and greenhouse gases.

Please review the Climate Change Curriculum for addressing greenhouse gases and car‐ bon sequestration.

Lead Specialist: Ted Strauss

Air Quality

Basic Objective 1: General understanding of the NRCS air quality resource concerns.

Basic Courses/ Activities 1.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Why should we Care about Air Quality. Course Online AgLearn: NRCS‐NEDC‐000253

Air Quality, Climate Change, and Energy

Course Online AgLearn: NRCS‐NEDC‐000257

Air Quality Resource Concern

Course Online AgLearn: NRCS‐NEDC‐000258

Basic Objective 2: General understand on how the air quality resource concerns are ap‐ plied in conservation planning.

Basic Courses/ Activities 2.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Reviewing Air Quality and the NRCS

Webinar On‐Demand S&T Training Library

Air Quality and Atmos‐ pheric Change

Coarse Instructor Lead

WNTSC Air Quality Team ‐ TBD

Intermediate Objective 1: Addressing the air quality resource concerns from animal man‐ agement activities

Intermediate Courses/Activities 1

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Air Quality and Animal Agriculture

Course Online AgLearn: NRCS‐NEDC‐00328

Air Quality and Manure Management

Webinar On‐Demand S&T Training Library

Intermediate Objective 1: Addressing the air quality resource concerns from animal man‐ agement activities (cont.)

Intermediate Courses / Activities 1

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Ammonia Recovery in Manure Management

Systems

Webinar On‐Demand S&T Training Library

Dust Control from An‐ imal Activity on Open

Lots

Webinar On‐Demand S&T Training Library

Feed Management for Beef Feedlots to Reduce

Air Emissions

Webinar On‐Demand S&T Training Library

Feed Management for Dairy Operations to Re‐ duce Air Emissions

Webinar On‐Demand S&T Training Library

Intermediate Objective 2: Addressing the air quality resource concerns from Combustion Systems

Intermediate Courses/ Activities 2

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Combustion System Improvement (372)

Webinar On‐Demand WNTSC Website

Engine Training – CPS 372 Combustion System

Improvement

Course Classroom CA Air Quality Conservationist

Reciprocating IC Engine Technology (ARB)

Course Classroom California Air Resources Board Training Course No. 271

Stationary Diesel ATCM

(ARB)

Course Classroom California Air Resources Board Training Course No. 301

Intermediate Objective 3: Addressing smoke management from prescribed burning

Intermediate Courses/ Activities 3

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Smoke Management and Air Quality for Land

Managers

Course Online SmoC Committee – Four Modules

Smoke Management Training (ARB)

Course Classroom California Air Resources Board Training Course No. 375

Intermediate Objective 4: Addressing the air quality resource concerns from other sources

Intermediate Courses / Activities 4

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Air Filtration and Scrub‐ bing – What Can It Be

Used For?

Webinar On‐Demand S&T Training Library

Mechanically‐Generated Particulate Matter – Causes and Cures

Webinar On‐Demand S&T Training Library

Air Quality Source Training

Misc. Classroom ‐

OJT

Misc. ‐ TBD

Advanced Objective 1: Provide accurate air quality information and technical assistance in the planning process

Advanced Courses / Activities 1

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Complete three conservation plans

Plan OJT Apply the Air Quality Assessment guidance sheet when developing conservation plans

Present an air quality presentation at a partner workshop

Presentation OJT Various location

Advanced Objective 2: Utilizing the National Air Quality Site Assessment Tool (NAQSAT) for Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans

Intermediate Courses / Activities 2

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

National Air Quality Site Assessment Tool

Coarse Classroom‐ Field

WNTSC Air Quality Team ‐ TBD

Using the NAQSAT for Dairies

Webinar On‐Demand S&T Training Library

Using the NAQSAT at Poultry Operations

Webinar On‐Demand S&T Training Library

Using the NAQSAT at Swine Operations

Webinar On‐Demand S&T Training Library

Lead Specialist: Ted Strauss \ Hue Dang

Notes: The Climate Change Curriculum has multiple basic, intermediate, and advanced objectives and courses/activities. The curriculum should be taken in the following order:

all basic objectives and associated courses/activities should be completed, then all intermediate, and then all advanced. You do not have to complete the courses under each level‐ basic, intermediate, or advanced in any specific order.

Climate Change

Basic Objective 1: Staff can list NRCS practice standards that can help farmers adapt to cli‐ mate change and list potential weather pattern changes that farmers may need to adapt to due to climate change.

Basic Courses / Activities 1.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Aglearn Course: Air Quality, Climate Change, and Energy1

Course

Online

Aglearn

Basic Objective 2: Staff can list the potential weather pattern, water availability, and air quality changes that may occur due to climate change, give examples of climate changes that have occurred, and describe how these can be detrimental to crops (e.g. insufficient frost hours for stone fruit).

Basic Courses / Activities 2.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Ag Learn Course: Why do we care about cli‐ mate change?

Intermediate Objective 1: Staff is able to explain NRCS Climate Change Programs and assistance.

Intermediate Courses / Activities 1.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

NRCS Climate Change Programs Training

Classroom

1 This course also satisfies one of the course/activity requirements under the following curriculums: Climate Change Basic Objective 1, Energy Basic Objective 3, and Air Quality Basic Objective 2.

Intermediate Objective 2: Staff is able to explain carbon sequestration benefits and disbenefits to land owners and the basics of carbon markets.

Intermediate / Activities 2.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

California Carbon Sequestration Training

Intermediate Objective 3: Staff is able to incorporate climate change adaptation, mitigation, and resiliency into the conservation planning process.

Intermediate Courses / Activities 3.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Incorporating Climate Change Into Conservation Planning Training

Complete one rangeland conservation plan that builds in climate resiliency

Plan

OJT

Multiple

Complete one cropland conservation plan that builds in climate resiliency

Complete one conservation plan that builds in climate resiliency that is not for rangeland or cropland (e.g.

wetlands, forestry, etc.)

Advanced Objective1: Staff is able to do a climate change vulnerability analysis to help prioritize areas for conservation.

Advanced Courses / Activities 1.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Vulnerability Analysis Training

Complete one vulnerability/adaptation analysis

Advanced Objective 2: Staff is able to use COMET to demonstrate GHG, carbon sequestra‐ tion, and energy benefits of practices and assist with development and implementation of a conservation plan.

Advanced Courses / Activities 2.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

COMET Training

Run COMET reports and use reports to show savings and benefits of conservation prac‐ tices to 3 different landowners on 3 different properties

Notes: The Conservation Planning Curriculum includes becoming a certified planner.

Courses should be taken in the following order: all basic objectives and associated courses/activities should be completed first, then all intermediate, and then all advanced.

Lead Specialist: Hue Dang

Conservation Planning

Basic Objective: Staff will be familiar with the 9‐step planning process, the field office technical guide, and NEPA requirements to start planning with agricultural producers.

Basic Courses (Apprentice Planner Curriculum)

Program/Certification Title: Apprentice Conservation Planner Role Curriculum ID: NRCS‐CP‐Apprentice

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Conservation Planning, Part 1 (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00)

Webinar AgLearn NRCS‐NEDC‐000019

Introduction to Field Office Technical Guide

(AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 4.00)

Webinar AgLearn NRCS‐NEDC‐000149

Cultural Resource Training Series, Part 1

(AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 4.00)

Webinar AgLearn NRCS‐NEDC‐000141

Environmental Evaluation Webinar Series No. 1: Primer on NRCS Environmental compliance

(S&T Training Library for content;

completion marked/self‐certified in

AgLearn)

Webinar S&T Training Library

NRCS‐NHQ‐000011

* Self‐certification

Environmental Evaluation Webinar Series No. 2: Documenting the Environmental Evaluation

In reference to the NRCS‐CPA‐52 Environmental Evaluation

Worksheet (S&T Training Library for content;

completion marked/self‐certified in

AgLearn)

Webinar S&T Training Library

NRCS‐NHQ‐000012

* Self‐certification

Curriculum ID: NRCS‐CP‐Apprentice

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Overview of Water Quality Resource Assessment

(AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00)

Webinar AgLearn NRCS‐NHQ‐000038

Nitrogen Management and Concerns (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00)

Webinar AgLearn NRCS‐NHQ‐000039

Sediment Management for Water Quality – No. 4

(AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00)

Webinar AgLearn NRCS‐NHQ‐000041

Water Bodies – No. 5 (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00)

Webinar AgLearn NRCS‐NHQ‐000042

Conservation Planning Business Tool Training (State or National‐NEDC/EDS/Instructor led) e.g., Toolkit or Conservation Desktop State‐specific Customer Service Toolkit

(CST) 9.0 Training NRCS‐NEDC‐LOCAL‐000001 (Contact Hours: 8.00) Customer Service Toolkit (Toolkit) 9.0 Hands‐On National Training

NRCS‐NEDC‐000360 (Contact Hours: 24.00) Customer Service Toolkit (Toolkit) 9.0 Train the National Trainer

NRCS‐NEDC‐000359 (Contact Hours: 24.00) Conservation Desktop (CD) Release 1 National Training Sessions

NRCS‐NEDC‐000387 (Contact Hours: 15.00)

* Credit is granted for each of these items. This is the only exception to training officers marking completions for the NEDC/EDS course IDs (NRCS‐NEDC‐LOCAL IDs). Please only mark these courses complete when instructed to do so by national bulletin or direct NEDC/EDS communication.

NRCS‐NHQ‐LOCAL‐000002

or

NRCS‐NEDC‐LOCAL‐000001

NRCS‐NEDC‐000360

NRCS‐NEDC‐000359

NRCS‐NEDC‐000387

* Credit is granted for each of these Toolkit items

Curriculum ID: NRCS‐CP‐Apprentice

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Assessment Tools Training Specific to the Employee’s Location (OJT/State/National)

OJT or Webinar, or Classroom

NRCS‐NHQ‐000007

* Self‐certification

Planning Criteria Training (OJT/State/National)

Training on using planning criteria to identify resource concerns (e.g., Con‐ servation Planning on Grazing Lands course (State, National, or OJT)

OJT or Webinar, or Classroom

NRCS‐NHQ‐000008

* Self‐certification

Soil Health and Sustainability Training

(State or National‐NEDC/ Instructor led)

Classroom N/A NRCS‐NHQ‐LOCAL‐000004

Basic Soils & Web Soil Survey to Interpret Land Capabilities &

Limitations (OJT/State/National)

OJT or Webinar, or Classroom

NRCS‐NHQ‐000009

* Self‐certification

State‐Specific Training & Required Deliverables ‐ Apprentice Planner This training is determined by the

State Conservationist and concurred by CPTAD.

NA – no additional requirments in CA.

N/A NRCS‐NHQ‐000024

* Apprentice Planner level of training required

* Self‐certification

Appropriate Job Approval Authority for Engineering & Ecological

Conservation – Apprentice Planner Practices common to the work area and the position

NRCS‐NHQ‐000014

* Apprentice Planner level of job approval authority required

* Self‐certification

Supervisor Certification for Appren‐ tice Conservation Planner Role

NRCS‐NHQ‐000025

* Completions can be marked by only supervisors and training officers.

Program/Certification Title: Certified Conservation Planner Role Curriculum ID: NRCS‐CP‐Apprentice

Course/Activity Name Location/Notes

Required training for an Apprentice Conservation Planner NRCS‐CP‐Apprentice * Sub‐requirement

Conservation Planning Course: Part 2 – Modules 6‐8 (Instructor‐led offered by State or National‐NEDC/EDS)

Attending Conservation Planning Boot Camp can be substituted for the instructor‐led Conservation Planning Course, Modules 6‐8.

Training Officers can mark completions for the green (NRCS‐NHQ‐LOCAL) course ID. NEDC/EDS will manage completions for the NEDC/EDS

Conservation Planning Boot Camp ID

NRCS‐NHQ‐LO‐

CAL‐000003

* Scheduled Only, Seminar Course or

NRCS‐NEDC‐000164

* Credit is given for Con‐ servation Planning Boot

Camp completion

Conservation planning Course: Part 3 – Module 9 (OJT/State/National) (develop RMS plan including the NRCS‐CPA‐52)

a. The candidate will be accompanied to the field by the State Conservationist designee to meet with the decisionmaker.

b. The candidate will be expected to demonstrate competency in the planning process and plan development; as well as interpersonal skills representing excellent customer service.

c. At a minimum, the conservation plan components listed in section 409.13 should be documented in the plan or associated material.

d. The observer will evaluate the candidate’s involvement with the decisionmaker (landowner or land operator) in the planning process to determine whether all client objectives and resource concerns associated with the planning area are adequately addressed; and whether the client understands the alternatives presented and feels satisfied in the planning assistance provided.

e. Field‐reviewed plans must be approved by the State Conservationist or designee prior to final delivery to the decisionmaker.

NRCS‐NHQ‐000015

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Phosphorous Management and Concerns – No. 3

(AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00)

Webinar AgLearn NRCS‐NHQ‐000040

* Self‐certification

Pest Management and Water Quality Implications – No. 6 (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00)

Webinar AgLearn NRCS‐NHQ‐000043

* Self‐certification

Cultural Resources Training Series Part 2 (State/Instructor led)

Classroom N/A NRCS‐NHQ‐LOCAL‐000001

Water Management – No. 7 (AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.00)

Webinar S&T Training Library

NRCS‐NHQ‐000044

Curriculum ID: NRCS‐CP‐Apprentice

Course/Activity Name Location/Notes

Environmental Evaluation Webinar Series No. 3‐11 (S&T Training Library for content; completion marked/self‐certified in

AgLearn) ‐‐ No. 3: Planning for Floodplain and Riparian Area Special Environmental

Concerns ‐‐ No. 4: Planning for Wetlands and Clean Water Act Special Environmental

Concerns ‐‐ No. 5: Planning for Prime and Unique Farmland and Invasive Species

Special Environmental Concern ‐‐ No. 6: Planning for Endangered Species/Migratory Birds/Bald and Golden

Eagles Special Environmental Concern ‐‐ No. 7: Planning for Natural Areas, Scenic Beauty, and Wild and Scenic

Rivers Special Environmental Concern ‐‐ No. 8: Planning for Clean Air and Environmental Justice Special

Environmental Concern ‐‐ No. 9: Planning for Essential Fish Habitat, Coastal Zones, and Coral Reef

Special Environmental Concerns ‐‐ No. 10: Planning for Cultural Resources Special Environmental Concerns and Making NEPA Finding ‐‐ No. 11: Appropriate Use of Categorical Exclusions

NRCS‐CP‐Apprentice * Sub‐requirement

Soil Health and Sustainability Training (State or National‐NEDC/EDS/Instructor led)

States will have the option for their Soil Health requirement to do either the NEDC/EDS Soil Health and Sustainability for Field Staff course or to do a completely separate State‐led course with assistance from the Soil Health Division. Training officers can schedule and mark completions for the green course ID. NEDC/EDS will manage completions for the NEDC/EDS ID.

Soil Health and Sustainability for Field Staff Course (NRCS‐NEDC‐000050)

(AgLearn/Instructor led) (Contact Hours: 24.00)

* This course counts as a substitute for the above item. Credit is granted upon completion of the NEDC/EDS course

NRCS‐NHQ‐LO‐

CAL‐000004

or

NRCS‐NEDC‐000050

* This course counts as a substitute for the above item. Credit is granted upon completion of the NEDC/EDS course. NEDC/ EDS will mark these com‐ pletions

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Economics of Conservation Planning Course (AgLearn/Instructor‐led) (Contact Hours: 24.00)

Classroom AgLearn NRCS‐NEDC‐000017

Air Quality, Climate Change, and Energy Course

(AgLearn/Web‐based) (Contact Hours: 1.50)

Webinar AgLearn NRCS‐NEDC‐000253

Fundamentals of Highly Erodible Land (HEL) and Wetland Conservation (WC) provisions training (State or on‐the‐job‐training)

Webinar S&T Training Library

NRCS‐NHQ‐000013

Curriculum ID: NRCS‐CP‐Certified

Course/Activity Name Location/Notes

Working Effectively with… Courses A minimum of one “Working Effectively with” training course from the list below is required (AgLearn/Instructor‐led)

Working Effectively with Livestock Producers NRCS‐ NEDC‐000045 (Contact Hours: 34.00)

Working Effectively With American Indians NRCS‐ NEDC‐000090 (Contact Hours: 32.00)

Working Effectively With Alaskan Natives NRCS‐ NEDC‐000147 (Contact Hours: 24.00)

Working Effectively with Hispanic Producers NRCS‐ NEDC‐000262 (Contact Hours: 20.00)

Working Effectively with Asian‐American Pacific Islander Producers NRCS‐NEDC‐000334 (Contact Hours: 20.00)

Improving Conservation Delivery to Women Landowners and Producers NRCS‐NEDC‐000378

(Contact Hours: 20.00) Extending Outreach to All Customers NRCS‐

NEDC‐000247 (Contact Hours: 28.00)

NRCS‐NEDC‐000045

NRCS‐NEDC‐000090

NRCS‐NEDC‐000147

NRCS‐NEDC‐000262

NRCS‐NEDC‐000334

NRCS‐NEDC‐000378

NRCS‐NEDC‐000247

* Pool of 1 item required built into program/ certification. EDS will mark these completions

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

State Specific Training & Required Deliverables –

Certified Planner Determined by the State

Conservationist and concurred by

CPTAD.

NA – no additional requirements in CA.

NRCS‐NHQ‐000027

* Certified planner level of training required

* Self‐certification

Appropriate Job Approval Authority for Engineering & Ecological Conservation

– Certified Planner Practices common to the work area and position.

Demonstration of knowledge

NRCS‐NHQ‐000028

* Certified planner level of job approval authority required

* Self‐certification

Supervisor Certification for Certified Conservation Planner Role

N/A N/A NRCS‐NHQ‐000023

* Completions may only be marked by supervisors and training officers

Advanced Objective: Staff will be able to build on and refine planning skills to develop plans for complex situations. Emphasis is on in‐depth resource analysis, alternatives development and analysis, and planning on a landscape level.

Advanced Courses and Activities (Master Planner Curriculum)

Program/Certification Title: Master Certified Conservation Planner Role Curriculum ID: NRCS‐CP‐MasterCertified

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Apprentice Conservation Planner Role Certification

Required training for the apprentice and certified conservation planner roles

NA NA NRCS‐CP‐Apprentice

* Sub‐requirement

Certified Conservation Planner Role Certification

Required training for the apprentice and certified conservation planner roles

NA NA NRCS‐CP‐Certified

* Sub‐requirement

Areawide Conservation Planning (AgLearn/Instructor‐led) (Contact Hours: 24.00)

Classroom N/A NRCS‐NEDC‐000092

One areawide conservation plan submitted for review and approval by

State Conservationist designee Provide significant contribution in the first seven steps of the conservation planning process for one areawide conservation plan submitted for review and approval by State Conservationist’s designee. This requirement may be fulfilled as an individual or as a member of a team. The State Conservationist may utilize the technology specialist at the regional national technical center for plan reviews if expertise is not available in State

Demonstration of knowledge

NRCS‐NHQ‐000016

* Self‐certification

Assist master certified conservation plan‐ ners or designee with two State quality reviews Assist master certified conservation planner(s) or the State Conservationist’s designee with two State quality reviews.

One may be outside of the employee’s home State

Activity N/A NRCS‐NHQ‐000017

Program/Certification Title: Master Certified Conservation Planner Role Curriculum ID: NRCS‐CP‐MasterCertified

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Serve as an instructor along with one or more master conservation planner or designee.

Serve as an instructor along with one or more master conservation planners or the State Conservationist’s designee for two conservation planning training sessions (State or National). One may be outside of the employee’s home State

Activity NA NRCS‐NHQ‐000018

* Self‐certification

State‐Specific Training & Required Deliv‐ erables – Master Certified Planner

Determined by the State Conservationist and concurred by CPTAD

N/A – no additional requirements in

CA.

NA NRCS‐NHQ‐000029

* Master Certified Planner level of training required

* Self‐certification

Appropriate Job Approval Authority for Engineering & Ecological Practices –

Master Certified Planner Common to the work area and position

Demonstration of knowledge

NRCS‐NHQ‐000030

* Master Certified Planner level of job approval authority required

* Self‐certification

Supervisor Certification for Master Certified Conservation Planner Role

N/A N/A NRCS‐NHQ‐000026

* Completions can be marked by only supervisors and training officers

Program/Certification Title: Technical Specialist Planner Designation Certification ID: NRCS‐CP‐Technical Specialist

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Complete two quality assurance activities that evaluate conservation plans and practice implementation related to their area(s) of expertise to the satisfaction of the technical supervisor

Activity NA NRCS‐NHQ‐000020

* Self‐certification

Deliver two state or national technical training programs that instruct other conservation planners in using NRCS planning procedures relative their position’s area of specialization

Activity NA NRCS‐NHQ‐000021

* Self‐certification

Complete state‐identified training and required deliverables which are applica‐ ble to the specialist’s discipline area

Training NRCS‐NHQ‐000022

* Technical Specialist

Planner level of training required

* Self‐certification

For those not already Certified as Master Certified Conservation Planners, the following additional requirements must be met:

a. Required national and state training for the Apprentice planner role designation

b. Conservation Planning Course Modules

6 – 8. (Instructor‐led) Attending Conservation Boot Camp may be substituted for this.

c. Cultural Resources Training Series Part 2

(State)

d. Environmental Evaluation Webinar Series No. 3 – 11 (S&T Library for content; completion marked in

AgLearn)

e. Conservation Planning Course Module 9 (complete a conservation plan related to their area(s) of expertise for in‐field review by the State Conservationist or designee).

Training N/A “a” = NRCS‐CP‐Apprentice is a subrequirement “b” = NRCS‐NHQ‐LO‐

CAL‐000003 or

NRCS‐NEDC‐000164

* Credit is given for Conservation Planning Boot Camp completion “c” = NRCS‐NHQ‐LO‐

CAL‐000001

“d” = NRCS‐NHQ‐000013

* Self‐certification “e” = NRCS‐NHQ‐000015

* Self‐certification

Supervisor Certification for Technical Specialist Planner Designation

NRCS‐NHQ‐000032

* Completions can be marked by only supervisors and training officers

Lead Specialist: Terryl Kocsis

Notes: Through FY18, Customer Service Toolkit (Toolkit) will be fully supported. Conservation Desktop, Technical Assistance (CD‐TA) will be available with limited functionality in FY18, becoming more robust by FY19. GIS skills can be enhanced as optional training activities.

Basic Objective: Planners will be proficient in Toolkit 9 to document resource inventory and planning deci‐ sions. Users should be familiar with the local geodata layers to create soils and other resource and interpre‐ tive maps. Skillset includes digitizing land units, practices, using symbology and labelling, and creating a maps with appropriate map elements. Plan and Contract Wizards are run to create Plan and Contract Re‐ ports. Limited functionality of Conservation Desktop is available in FY18.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Customer Service Toolkit / GIS, 2‐day class [1]

Hands‐On Course

Classroom Work with Area Staff to schedule small‐group classes at various locations

Conservation Desktop Release 1

Course Webinar Recordings available after Sept 7 2017

Conservation Desktop Release 2

Course Webinar Recordings available after Dec 2017

Conservation Desktop Release 3 [1]

Two‐Day Course

Classroom Small group classes held in various locations TBD, after July 2018

[1] This course also satisfies the Toolkit or CD requirement for Apprentice Level Planner Certification

Intermediate Objective: Enhance skills to more efficiently create map products, provide trouble‐shooting assistance in Toolkit, and find geodata for projects.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

SAMPLE COURSES:

Getting Started with GIS

Working with Annotation in ArcGIS Creating Map Products Getting Started with the

Geodatabase Editing in ArcGIS Desktop

Get Started with Survey123 for ArcGIS

Integrating Data in ArcGIS Pro Creating and Editing Metadata in

ArcGIS

Webinar Virtual Classroom

ESRI Virtual Campus [2] Pre‐Paid Courses directly from ESRI No Cost to NRCS and RCD employees

Intermediate Courses / Activities (cont)

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Local Geodata Administration OJT TBA

Advanced Objective: Build GIS skills for in‐depth resource analysis, data sharing, model building, alterna‐ tives development and analysis, and planning on a landscape level.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

SAMPLE COURSES:

Predict Floods with Unit

Hydrographs Approaches to Spatial Analysis Displaying Raster Data Using

ArcGIS Solving Spatial Problems Using

ArcGIS Classifying Imagery Using ArcGIS Simplify CAD‐GIS Workflows Using ArcGIS for AutoCAD

Webinar Virtual Classroom

ESRI Virtual Campus [2] Work with employee’s supervisor and the State GIS Coordinator to customize course selection to meet needs

[2] ESRI Virtual Campus Training NRCS and RCD employees are able to order directly courses for themselves. Employees have to be on a list showing that they are part of the NRCS/SWCD organization. To join the NRCS organizational list, contact Ron Selph to request to be added to the NRCS/SWCD organi‐ zational online learning list. Accepting the invitation will allow you to immediately enroll and launch any self‐paced ESRI course without having to request a course code. Once you accept the invitation, you will be able to go to the ESRI training site, https://www.esri.com/ training and order your courses.

Search the ESRI catalog for classes you would like to enroll. All the courses in the catalog with light blue headers are free. Select the but‐ ton that say ‘View Details,’ then the button ‘Launch Course.’

Notes: Completing the entire Cultural Resources Curriculum results in the Cultural Resources Technician CRT certification. A CRT may complete various levels of Archeology compliance work. Courses should be taken in the following order: all basic objectives and associated courses/activities should be completed first, then all intermediate, and then all advanced.

Lead Specialist: Emily Castano

Cultural Resources

Basic Objective 1: Staff will be able to define cultural resources and discuss why, and how, such resources must be considered and protected during project and program planning.

Basic Courses/ Activities 1.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

“Cultural Resources Training Series” Module 1 ‐ Why Cultur‐ al Resources are Important [1]

NRCS ‐ NEDC ‐ 000141

“Cultural Resources Training Se‐ ries” Module 2 ‐ Cultural Resourc‐ es in the Planning Process[2]

"Cultural Resources Training Series" Module 3 ‐ Using Ex‐ isting Information to Identify Cultural Resources

Series" Module 4 ‐ Identifying Cultural Resources in the Field

"Cultural Resources Training Se‐ ries" Module 5 ‐ Evaluation and Treatment of Cultural Resources

Series" Module 6 ‐ Protecting Cultural Resources Under Specific Circumstances

[1] This course also satisfies one of the course/activity requirements under the following curriculums: Cultural Resources Basic Objective and Conservation Planning Intermediate Objective.

[2] This course also satisfies one of the course/activity requirements under the following curriculums: Cultural Resources Basic Objective and Conservation Planning Intermediate Objective.

Basic Objective 2: Staff will develop an understanding and awareness of tribal issues and concerns and learn how the unique status of Indian tribes and their historical relationship with the Federal government affects government programs, responsibilities, and initiatives.

Basic Courses/ Activities 2.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

GoLearn: “Working Effectively with Tribal Governments”

Online http://www.golearn.gov/

Intermediate Objective 1: Staff will be able to demonstrate an understanding of NRCS State operating procedures and documentation requirements for cultural resources compliance.

Intermediate Courses/ Activities 1.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Complete “Cultural Resources Training Series” Module 7 ‐ Part 1

Course Classroom TBD

Intermediate Objective 2: Staff will be able to recognize and discuss a range of prehistoric and historic‐era cultural resources typical to the State of California and particular NRCS administrative or service areas.

Intermediate Courses/ Activities 2.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Training Series” Module 7 ‐ Part 2

Advanced Objective 1: Staff will be able to identify cultural resources in the field and demonstrate competency in documenting both positive and negative survey findings according to State procedures and requirements.

Advanced Courses/ Activities 1.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Training Series” Module 8

/ Field

Notes: The Environmental Compliance Curriculum has two sub‐categories. You can take courses or complete activities in multiple categories (you do not have to finish one category to go on to the next), but you must complete courses/activities under each sub‐ category in the following order: all basic first, then intermediate, and then advanced.

Lead Specialist: Jennifer Cavanaugh

Environmental Compliance

Sub‐Category 1: Food Security Act

Basic Objective: Staff will be able to discuss Wetland Conservation Compliance (WCC) confidently with clients.

Basic Courses/ Activities

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Wetland Identification for Food Security Act Purposes‐ Phase 1:

Basic Concepts

OR

NRCS Alaska Wetland Course:

Phase 1

Course Online Reading 24 hours

NRCS‐NEDC‐000268

NRCS‐NEDC‐000300

Fundamentals of Highly Erod‐ ible Land (HEL) and Wetland Conservation (WC) provisions training

Course Webinar 2 hours

Aglearn

NRCS‐NHQ‐000010

Field Office Administration of WC/HELC—responding to Form

AD‐1026

Course Classroom 4 hours

Contact Area WC and/or HELC Representative

Intermediate Objectives: Staff will be able to assist in completing FSA wetland determinations.

Intermediate Courses/ Activities

Course/Activity Name

Type

Format

Location/Notes

Wetland Identification for National Food Security Act

Purposes: Phase 2 Application

Course Classroom 32 hours

Offered through NEDC; submit training request

Hydric Soils for Wetland Delineation

Course Classroom 32 hours

Offered through NEDC; submit training request

Assist with wetland determinations

Local training with Wetland Compliance Specialist assisting with completion of wetland determinations

OJT Classroom and Field

Coordinate with regional or state Wetland Compliance Specialist

Duration of necessary OJT is dependent upon specialist level of knowledge of each topic

Sub‐Category 2: NEPA

Basic Objective: Staff will have a basic understanding of NRCS Environmental Compliance responsibilities and requirements.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Environmental Compliance for Conservation Assistance

EC Level 1

Course Online 1 hour

Aglearn

NRCS‐NEDC‐000190

Environmental Evaluation Series No. 1: Primer on NRCS Environ‐ mental Compliance

Course Online 1 hour

Aglearn

NRCS‐NHQ‐000011

Environmental Evaluation Series No. 2: Documenting the Envi‐ ronmental Evaluation

Course Online 1 hour

NRCS‐NHQ‐000012

Sub‐Category 2: NEPA (cont)

Intermediate Objective: Staff are able to understand the kind and amount of documentation required to adequately complete the environmental evaluation process and understand how to use the features included in the current version of the Environmental Evaluation (EE) NRCS‐CPA‐52 Worksheet.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Environmental Evaluation Series No. 3‐11: Documenting the Environmental Evaluation on the NRCS CPA‐52 Environmental Evaluation Worksheet

Course Online 10 hours

S&T Training Library

CPA‐52 Automation:

The EEPT Environmental Evalua‐ tion Planning Tool

Course Online 1 hour

Environmental Evaluation Planning Tool and/or EEPT Youtube Training Video

Advanced Objective: Staff will be able to independently complete a CPA‐52 Environmental Evaluation (EE) worksheet as required by policy.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Completing the Environmental Evaluation, Phase 1

Course Classroom 8 hours

Intended for all staff. Class will go step by step through completing an EE and where to find resources to adequately evaluate SECs. Staff may attend course multiple times as needed.

Completing the Environmental Evaluation, Phase 2, Refresher

Course Classroom 6 hours

Intended for staff that are completing EEs on a regular basis. Class activities include reviewing current plans/EEs.

Portions of course syllabus driven by participants needs. Course may be repeated as needed, and at least once every 4 years.

Complete at least three Environ‐ mental Evaluations

Plan OJT Submit at least 3 CPA‐52s to Area Office for review and feedback. Area Office will determine when individuals may complete EEs independently.

Notes: The Forestry Curriculum has five sub‐categories. For the first three sub‐categories you can take courses or complete activities in multiple categories (you do not have to finish one category to go on to the next), but you must complete courses/activities under each sub‐category in the following order: all basic first, then intermediate, and then advanced. In order to move on to the final two sub‐categories, Forest Advisor Training and Woodland Conservationist Training, you must first complete all of the courses/activities in sub‐categories 1 through 3.

Lead Specialist: Christopher Zimny

Forestry

Sub‐Category 1: Silviculture

Basic Objective: Staff will be able to identify local forest plants, use simple inventory methods and procedures, and understand the basics of growing and tending of the forest.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Tree and planet Identification:

Use Cal Flora/PLANTS/Veg Guide to identify 15 local shrubs, 15 local trees, and 3 local forest association in your Service Area

Tool

Calflora

Basic NRCS Forest Inventories Course Field (SharePoint)

Introduction to Forest Ecological Site Descriptions

Reading

Ecological Site Descriptions

Ecological Selection Map

Apply Forest Stand Improvement (666) standard and specification

Read associated silvicultual practices (315, 383, 490, 612, 660) eFOTG

Read Forest Stewardship Training Series parts 1‐7 series Coop Extension/ANR

(SharePoint)

Read through the Forestland Steward Newsletters (1996‐ 2015) and have a working knowledge of the stewardship topics

Forestland Steward Newsletters

For three forest stands, complete category A elements of Forestland Health Assessment Protocol (FLHAP) and Scorecard (Tech Note 44)

Read “Reforestation Services” program memo, read “Planting CA Forestlands” and be able to identify the field office seed zone and its boundaries and elevations.

Intermediate Objective: Staff will be able to assess forest health, provide conservation options and communicate to landowners about growing and tending the forest.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Use California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR) for identifying 10 locally unique, threatened or special status species; 5 unwanted forestland plants and 3 local wildlife habitats in the area

Using Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) or similar analysis, develop three silvicultual alternatives to a typical forest stand

Work with soil/veg specialists to draft one local forest Ecological Site Description

For three forests or forest types, develop local specifications for 666 and associated practices to support regional forest types, include the use of approved/draft Ecological Site Description.

For one declining forest plant species in local a forest, know the responsible agency strategy to sustain/ improve the species survival

On three plans on forestlands assist field staff on rating elements in the Forestland Health Assessment (FLHAP) and Scorecard

Take the CAL FIRE/UCCE webinar on cone surveys and participate in the multiagency Reforestation Services seed bank cone collection process

Webinar

Webinars/Reforestation

Sub‐Category 2: Ecosystem Services

Basic Objective: Staff will be able to recognize forest resource concerns, identify common forest conservation practices and be able to communicate ecosystem forest services to the landowner.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Read the following forestry practices 342, 384, 391, 472, 560, 578, 64X, 654, and 655

For two parcels, complete cat‐ egory B and C elements of the Forestland Health Assessment Protocol (FLHAP) Scorecard

Participate in the NRCS Roads Course and fill out two data collection forms and two plan template.

Ranch, Fire and Utility Access Roads

Roads Webinar

Assess the erosion hazard on two sites for water quality related sediment from roads and disturbed areas.

Reference Materials:

Chalk Mountain Hoagland Road Assessment

Price Creek Road Assessment

Inventory procedures for fuel load and habitat wood

Field

Reference Materials:

(SharePoint - Forest Conservation)

In two forest types, measure tree understory and riparian cover and assess data for planning purposes

Training Series parts 8‐17

On the local public forest landscape, read and be familiar with 1 (one) regional forest ecosystem management strategy (See USFS, BLM, USFWS)

Forest and rural roads

See: UC Forest Research and Outreach

Managing Forest Roads

Forest Stewardship Series #17

Forest Roads

Handbook for Forest, Ranch and Rural Roads

Forest, Ranch and Rural Roads

Intermediate Objective: Staff will be able to inventory and assess local forest resource concerns, complete the forest assessment scorecard, and document baselines and mitigations for typical forest conservation practices.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Complete one inventory and data analysis for each of the following inventories: road erosion/sediment, fuel load, habitat wood, understory and riparian cover. Use one or more of these inventories in three plans and/or forest types.

Work with local biologists and draft one conservation strategy for regional wild‐ life habitat requirements for wood – snags, cavities, downed wood and/or in‐stream for Area technical specialist to review

After completing basic environmental compliance course (CPA‐52), develop three unique forestland based mitigations and findings that address threatened resources, species and/or cultural concerns associated with forest conservation practices and submit draft for review by Area technical specialist

Prerequisite: Environmental Compliance for Conservation Assistance EC Level 1. Located on Aglearn: (NEDC‐000190)

Create a conservation plan that includes declining forest habitat and be familiar with strategies for habitat recovery

In three conservation plans, provide locally based alternatives to support non‐ tree elements of Forestland Health Assessment Scorecard

Read the CAL FIRE California Forestry Handbook

Reading Online

Work with Engineers to obtain Job Approval Authority (JAA) for low use roads and small stream crossings

OJT and online reading

Handbook for Forest, Ranch and Rural Roads Forest, Ranch and Rural Roads

Sub‐Category 3 Forest Planning and Practices

Basic Objective: Staff will be able to meet with forest landowners, understand their conservation goals and objectives, recognize resource concerns, and develop conservation plans on forestland.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Read the California Forest Practice Rules 2015 Manual and be familiar with table of Contents of Title 14 CCR 4 & 10

California Forest Practice Rules

Create a conservation plan for forestland with practices and alternatives using the (FLHAP) assessment scorecard

Review one locally developed forest management plan, harvest plan, and an exemption. Read and dissect the documents for cumulative impact purposes and watershed management data

Forest Practice Watershed Mapper

Training Series parts 18‐24

Read the National Forestry Handbook on policy, planning, inventories and practices, specifically sections 636.0‐40

Intermediate Objective: Staff will be able to review Forest Management Plan (FMP) “oneplan” forest management plans, communicate the values of planning to landowners and be conversant with the state and federal regulations on private forestland.

Course/Activity Name Type Format Location/Notes

Be able to know the land use history, assess impacts and effects of the CA forest practice rules (FPR) and, in one plan, show the use of the FPR in providing landowner conservation guidance

California Forest Pratice Rules

Create three plans on forestlands that address three different resource concerns

Review three completed Forest Management Plan “One‐Plan” and/or Conservation Activity Plan for forestlands for content, errors and omissions

California Cooperative Forest Management Plan

Recognize the Purposes and Uses of Legal Exemptions, Harvest Plans and Associated Permits

California Forest Practice Rules

Review a minimum of three locally developed harvest planning…