NPS Operations

Description

This competency encompasses a general comprehension of the basic operations of the NPS, especially at the park level; how these operations interact to fulfill the Mission of the NPS; and why visitors come to parks and how the NPS "manages" them.
 

Outline

V.  NPS Operations

      A. Visitors and How They View Parks

      B. Visitor Use Management

      C. Park Operations

           1. Administration

           2. Concessions

           3. Cooperating Associations

           4. Interpretation & Education

           5. Law Enforcement & Incident Management

           6. Maintenance

           7. Resources Management & Science

           8. Wilderness

      D. External NPS Operations

           1. Outdoor Recreation & Conservation Programs

           2. Preservation Assistance Programs

           3. Recreation Grants Programs

           4. Partnership Programs
 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of visitor use behaviors, expectations, and visitation patterns, and how the NPS "manages" them

Broad knowledge and understanding of the various aspects of the various park interactions and how they work together to accomplish the NPS and park missions

Knowledge of the external NPS programs and how they accomplish the NPS mission to protect the parks and promote conservation of resources outside the parks
 

Recommended Training To Obtain This Competency

History and Mission of the NPS
This web-based training includes an introduction to NPS partners; it is a prerequisite of the training listed below.  Average time to complete the entire module is 8 hours.  There is no cost. Click on the course title to begin your training.
Partnership Program of the National Park Service
This web-based training is available to employees upon demand.  It explores the role of the NPS in assisting private citizens and state and local organizations, to preserve cultural resources, and to provide recreational opportunities mainly outside the National Parks. This training is under development and is scheduled to be released in Fall 2000.
“Compass II: Today’s Leaders, Tomorrow’s Legends”
This classroom course provides an overview of most of the Universal Competencies, including the role of non-profit organizations (e.g., the National Parks and Conservation Association), Friends groups and cooperating associations in achieving the Mission of the NPS.  It also examines the role of Concessionaires in providing necessary and appropriate services in the parks.

This course also provides an overview of the role and function of NPS disciplines (e.g., Maintenance, Cultural Resources Management, the Superintendency) with an emphasis on inter-divisional teamwork.   Click on the course title to see a current schedule.

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