River Rover volunteers needed in parks

[ERIC]

River Rover volunteers needed in parks

Visalia Times Delta
March 25, 2009

This year’s heavy Sierra Nevada snow pack will result in very high water levels and cold, turbulent currents in Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks’ rivers this spring and early summer.

Volunteers called River Rovers educate visitors about the danger of such waters in order to prevent drowning and injury. Currently, more volunteers are needed for this program.

Rovers donate a few hours one day a week, usually on weekends, and work under the direct supervision of a park ranger. They are provided with training, uniforms, first-aid kits, two-way radios and other necessary equipment.

River Rover candidates should have outdoor experience, good people skills and be able to walk several miles on uneven terrain in high temperatures. Candidates with knowledge of languages in addition to English are especially needed.

For a volunteer application or for more information contact Tim Barrett at 559-565-4212 or 559-565-4211 or by e-mail at Tim_Barrett@nps.gov.