COLORADO – The Minerals and Geology Training Office has been blossoming like spring flowers, given the first opportunity to implement in-person education since March of 2020.  

The FY2023 training season began on March 31, with the Minerals for Line Officers course in sunny San Antonio, Texas. For three days, the course coordinator, Tracy Parker, regional director for Region 3, along with 10 instructors, connected with 38 Line Officers from various forests and regions. There were hosts of engaging lectures and case studies on policy, authorities and budgeting issues. There was even a demonstration of a geological hazard for students to manipulate.

April began in Athens, Ohio, at the Oil & Gas Administration course. Approximately 50 students, instructors and administrators met for three days of robust classroom discussions before two days of field training exercises, all led by course coordinator Brian Kempenich. The week also included a social pizza event to enhance esprit de corp. This course was also the last hoorah for training coordinator Mark. R. Nelson, who efficiently and graciously served the Washington Training Office for six years. His program departure leaves LaGayla M. McGahee and Sabrina Kohrt at the helm of prepared leadership. Fortunately, the Forest Service continues to glean from his knowledge base and professionalism as the assistant regional environmental engineer for Region 2.

Most recently, 42 participants made a step toward becoming certified minerals administrators in training facilities at the National Interagency Fire Center of Boise, Idaho. A cadre of five instructors, led by Matt A. Reece, facilitated the Minerals Administration course with lessons on locatable and leasable sales, bonding exercises and others. Students then experienced two days of comprehensive FTXs at the Big Gulch and 10 Points field sites; the occasional wintry weather could not deter learning.

Minerals and Geology in-person courses will continue throughout the summer. Registration for the next fiscal year’s events will be available during the winter. Keep an eye out for the winter webinar series and other informal training. As Lands, Minerals, and Geology merges efforts, the combined training offices will keep you informed of professional development opportunities and updated ways to be involved in them. In the meantime, the most current information regarding training events can be found at the Minerals and Geology Management Home (internal link).