Welcome to the 

Forest Service: 

A Guide for Volunteers

United States

Department of

Agriculture

Forest Service

Technology &

Development

Program

6700–Safety and Health

2300–Recreation

February 2009

0967–2813–MTDC

U N IT E D S TAT E S O F A M E R IC A

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
i

The Forest Service, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), has developed this information for the guidance of its employees, its 

contractors, and its cooperating Federal and State agencies, and is not responsible for the interpretation or use of this information by anyone 

except its own employees. The use of trade, firm, or corporation names in this document is for the information and convenience of the reader, 

and does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of any product or service to the exclusion of others that may be suitable. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national 

origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic 

information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all 

prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information 

(Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of 

discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call 

(800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Lisa Outka-Perkins

Project Leader

USDA Forest Service

Technology and Development Program

Missoula, MT

2E22H52 Training Program for Hosted Programs

February 2009

Welcome to the 

Forest Service: 

A Guide for Volunteers
ii

Introduction_______________________________________________________________________1

Establishment of the Forest Service________________________________________________________ 1

National Forest System__________________________________________________________________ 1

National Level ______________________________________________________________________________ 2

Regions____________________________________________________________________________________ 2

National Forests and Grasslands ________________________________________________________________ 2

Ranger Districts _____________________________________________________________________________ 2

International Institute of Tropical Forestry _________________________________________________ 3

Research and Development ______________________________________________________________ 3

State and Private Forestry _______________________________________________________________ 3

Volunteers in the National Forests Program_____________________________________________4

Volunteers in the National Forests Act _____________________________________________________ 4

USDA Nondiscrimination Statement ______________________________________________________ 4

Volunteer Work ________________________________________________________________________ 5

Volunteer Agreements___________________________________________________________________ 6 

Difference Between Individual and Sponsored Volunteer Agreements ___________________________ 6

What Are Partnerships? _________________________________________________________________ 7

Volunteer Qualifications_________________________________________________________________ 7 

Supervision and Work Performance _______________________________________________________ 7

Training ______________________________________________________________________________ 7

Uniforms _____________________________________________________________________________ 7

Timekeeping __________________________________________________________________________ 8

Expenses and Reimbursement ____________________________________________________________ 8

Responsibility and Conduct ______________________________________________________________ 8

Volunteer Rights _______________________________________________________________________ 9

Safety ___________________________________________________________________________10

Personal Safety _______________________________________________________________________ 10

Travel _______________________________________________________________________________ 11

Contents
iii

Vehicles __________________________________________________________________________________ 11

Foot Travel ________________________________________________________________________________ 11

Horses and Packstock________________________________________________________________________ 12

All-Terrain and Utility Terrain Vehicles (ATVs and UTVs) __________________________________________ 13

Weather _____________________________________________________________________________ 15

Hot Weather Conditions______________________________________________________________________ 15

Cold Weather Conditions _____________________________________________________________________ 16

Lightning _________________________________________________________________________________ 16

Plants, Insects, and Snakes _____________________________________________________________ 17

Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac __________________________________________________________________ 18

Ticks_____________________________________________________________________________________ 19

Chiggers _________________________________________________________________________________ 20

Bees, Wasps, and Fire Ants ___________________________________________________________________ 20

Snakes ___________________________________________________________________________________ 21

Spiders and Scorpions _______________________________________________________________________ 22

Chopping Tools _______________________________________________________________________ 23

Cutting Tools _________________________________________________________________________ 24

Chain Saws and Crosscut Saws ________________________________________________________________ 24

Bow Saws _________________________________________________________________________________ 24

Files _____________________________________________________________________________________ 25

Prying and Tamping Bars ______________________________________________________________ 25

Shovels ______________________________________________________________________________ 25

Lifting and Carrying___________________________________________________________________ 25

Office Safety _________________________________________________________________________ 26

Injuries __________________________________________________________________________27

Contents
iv

Contents
1

Welcome to the Forest Service, the largest agency 

within the U.S. Department of Agriculture 

(USDA). As a volunteer, you will be helping 

manage resources that are increasingly important to our 

Nation.

In recent years, the Forest Service has relied on volunteers to maintain trails, serve as hosts at campgrounds, and 

perform many other valuable services. Without volunteers, 

these services would not be performed as well or might not 

be performed at all.

This guide will provide you with a brief history of the 

Forest Service, an overview of the volunteer program, and 

some information you will need to work safely and productively for the agency. We hope it helps you become at ease in 

your new position.

Volunteer coordinators can refer to a more comprehensive guide: 

“Volunteers in the Forest Service: A Coordinator’s Desk 

Guide” (Tech. Rep. 0967–2814–MTDC).

Establishment of the 

Forest Service

When the first European settlers arrived on American 

soil, forests covered nearly all the land from the Eastern Seaboard to the Great Plains. Due to concern about deforestation 

and unregulated cutting, laws to protect timber stands were 

passed as early as 1807. Such laws were virtually ignored. 

In 1891, Congress gave the President the power to 

establish forest reserves from the public domain to protect 

timber and to ensure a regular flow of water in streams. The 

forest reserves were placed under the administration of the 

U.S. Department of the Interior.

In 1905, management of the forest reserves was transferred to a new agency in the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Forest Service. Gifford Pinchot was named the first 

Chief (figure 1). Other land management agencies, such as 

the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management, are in the U.S. Department of the Interior. In a letter 

dated February 1, 1905, Secretary of Agriculture James 

Wilson laid out the guiding principles of the Forest Service 

to the new Chief. An excerpt of the letter follows:

“In the administration of the forest reserves, it must be 

clearly borne in mind that all land is to be devoted to the 

most productive use for the permanent good of the whole 

people and not for the temporary benefit of individuals or 

companies.... You will see to it that the water, wood, and 

forage of the reserves are conserved and wisely used under 

businesslike regulations enforced with promptness, effectiveness, and common sense.... Where conflicting interests must 

be reconciled, the question will always be decided from the 

standpoint of the greatest good for the greatest number in the 

long run....” James Wilson

Secretary of Agriculture, 1897 to 1913 

National Forest System

The National Forest System includes 155 national forests 

and 20 national grasslands (figure 2), covering 193 million 

acres of land in 44 States, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin 

Islands. These lands represent some of the Nation’s greatest 

assets and have major economic, environmental, and social 

significance for millions of Americans. 

Figure 1—Gifford Pinchot, Governor of Pennsylvania (Chief of the Forest Service, 1905 to 1910), rides up Pennsylvania Avenue in President 

Coolidge’s 1925 inaugural parade.

Introduction
2

As directed by Congress, renewable forest resources—

water, timber, forage, wildlife, and recreation—are managed 

under the principles of multiple use and sustained yield. 

Multiple use means managing resources under the best 

combination of uses to benefit the American people while 

ensuring the productivity of the land and protecting the 

quality of the environment. Sustained yield means that 

resources are managed to provide services and products at a 

level that can be sustained without harming the land’s ability 

to continue producing those services and products. 

National Level

The highest level of the National Forest System is the 

national level, commonly called the Washington Office. The 

person who oversees the entire Forest Service is called the 

Chief or the Chief Forester of the United States. The Chief, a 

Federal employee, reports to the Under Secretary for Natural 

Resources and Environment in the USDA. The Chief’s staff 

provides broad policy and direction for the agency, works 

with the President’s administration to develop a budget to 

submit to Congress, provides information to Congress on 

accomplishments, and monitors the agency’s activities. 

Regions

The Forest Service has 9 regions, numbered 1 through 6 

and 8 through 10. Region 7 was eliminated some years ago to 

standardize the size of regions. The forests in Region 7 were 

divided among Regions 8 and 9. Each region is composed of 

several national forests and usually includes several States. 

The person in charge of each region is called the regional 

forester. The regional office allocates budgets to the forests, 

coordinates activities between forests, monitors activities on 

the forests, and provides guidance for each forest plan.

National Forests and Grasslands

 Each forest or grassland is composed of several ranger 

districts. The person in charge of a national forest or grassland is called the forest or grassland supervisor. The supervisor’s office coordinates activities between ranger districts, 

allocates the budget, and provides technical support to each 

district. 

Ranger Districts

There are more than 600 ranger districts. The district 

ranger and district staff are usually the public’s first point of 

contact with the Forest Service. Each district has a staff of 10 

to 100 people. On-the-ground activities at the districts include 

trail construction and maintenance, operation of campgrounds, and management of vegetation and wildlife habitat. 

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Figure 2—Wildflowers in Franklin Basin along a road north of the UtahIdaho State line, July 16, 2004. Courtesy of Ann Keysor, Caribou-Targhee 

National Forest (includes Curlew National Grasslands) 

Introduction
3

International Institute of 

Tropical Forestry

The International Institute of Tropical Forestry is part of 

the Forest Service. The institute is located in Río Piedras, 

Puerto Rico, on the grounds of the University of Puerto 

Rico’s Agricultural Experimental Station. The institute is 

dedicated to tropical forestry on an international level. 

Within the Forest Service’s motto of caring for the land and 

serving people, the institute’s mission is to: Develop and 

exchange knowledge critical to sustaining tropical ecosystem 

benefits for humankind.

Research and Development

The research and development (R&D) arm of the Forest 

Service works at the forefront of science to improve the 

health and use of our Nation’s forests and grasslands. 

Research has been part of the Forest Service mission since 

the agency’s inception in 1905. Today, some 500-plus Forest 

Service researchers work in a range of biological (figure 3), 

physical, and social science fields to promote sustainable 

management of the Nation’s diverse forests and rangelands. 

Their research covers a lot of territory, with programs in all 

50 States, U.S. territories, and commonwealths. The research 

focuses on informing policy and land management decisions, 

whether the research addresses invasive insects, degraded 

river ecosystems, or sustainable ways to harvest forest 

products. The researchers work independently and with a 

range of partners, including other agencies, academia, 

nonprofit groups, and industry. The information and technology produced through basic and applied science programs is 

available to the public. 

State and Private Forestry

The State and Private Forestry (S&PF) arm of the Forest 

Service reaches across the boundaries of national forests to 

States, Tribes, communities, and nonindustrial private 

landowners. State and Private Forestry is the Federal leader 

in providing technical and financial assistance to landowners 

and resource managers to help sustain the Nation’s forests 

and protect communities and the environment from wildland 

fires. 

State and Private Forestry programs bring forest 

management assistance and expertise to a diversity of 

landowners, including the owners of small woodlots and 

Tribal, State, and Federal Governments, through costeffective, nonregulatory partnerships. The staffs play a key 

role, along with others within the Forest Service and the 

Department of the Interior, in implementing the National 

Fire Plan to manage the impacts of wildland fires on communities and the environment.

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Figure 3—Respiratory and circulatory data were collected from this black 

bear during wildlife research. Courtesy of Scott Anderson, Chequamegon-Nicolet 

National Forest

Introduction
4

Volunteers in the National 

Forests Act

The Volunteers in the National Forests (VIF) program is 

authorized by the Volunteers in the National Forests Act of 

1972. Before passage of the act, the Forest Service did not 

have the authority to accept voluntary services or to reimburse individuals for associated personal expenses. The 

Volunteers in the National Forests Act recognized the 

public’s interest in giving time and skills for community 

service. Volunteers are enrolled by the Forest Service under 

this act. Volunteers receive no salary or wages from the 

Forest Service and give their time and talents to further the 

agency’s mission (figure 4).

A volunteer is not considered a Federal employee and is 

not subject to the provisions of laws relating to Federal 

employment except for the purpose of tort claims or workrelated injuries (Federal Employees Compensation Act of 

1974). 

USDA Nondiscrimination 

Statement

 “The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) 

prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on 

the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and 

where applicable, sex, marital status, parental status, religion, 

sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, 

reprisal, or because all or a part of an individual’s income is 

derived from any public assistance program. (Not all 

prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with 

disabilities who require alternative means for communication 

of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) 

should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at 202–720–2600 

(voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write 

to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call 

800–795–3272 (voice) or 202–720–5382 (TDD). USDA is an 

equal opportunity provider and employer.”—USDA Equal 

Employment Opportunity Policy Statement

Courtesy of Arthur Herzog

“We live in a society that always has depended on volunteers of different kinds, some who can give 

money, others who give time and a great many who will freely give their special skills, full time or 

part time. If you look closely you will see that almost anything that really matters to us, anything that embodies our deepest commitment to the way human life should be lived and cared 

for depended on some form—more often, many forms—of volunteerism.”

 Margaret Mead and Rhoda Metraux, 

 “Aspects of the Present” (1980)

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E Figure 4—A volunteer helps the Forest Service with wildlife viewing. 

Courtesy of Ginger Hamilton, Forest Service, Northern Region

Volunteers in the National Forests Program
5

Volunteer Work

Volunteers are at the very heart of the Forest Service. 

You may assist in any Forest Service program or activity but 

cannot perform law enforcement activities or fight fire. A 

variety of jobs are available, ranging from office work to 

vigorous physical labor outdoors. Some typical volunteer 

activities include:

• Maintaining and hosting campgrounds

• Answering phones, greeting visitors, and 

answering mail at Forest Service visitor centers 

and ranger stations

• Working with computers in Forest Service 

administrative offices

• Taking photographs

• Planting trees and seeding damaged areas 

(figure 5)

• Presenting environmental education programs

• Building and repairing fences, nest boxes 

(figure 6), picnic tables, and other structures

• Building barrier-free campsites, docks, and 

trails

• Restoring damaged streambanks and burned 

areas

• Building and maintaining trails (figure 7)

Figure 5—Volunteers help with plant restoration on the Hiawatha National 

Forest. Courtesy of Gary Morgan, Forest Service, Eastern Region

Figure 6—Local volunteers help with a nest box, a wildlife opening, and 

structure maintenance project for the wildlife program. Courtesy of Art 

Henderson, Talladega National Forest

Figure 7—Volunteers work on the Forks Area Trail System, one of the 

premier mountain bike trails in the Southeast. Courtesy of Elizabeth Meadows, Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests

Volunteers in the National Forests Program
6

You may work part time or full time and can participate 

in a daylong project or serve over several months, seasons, or 

years. You are limited only by your willingness to serve. 

However, such service must benefit the Forest Service. 

Volunteer Agreements

The three types of volunteer agreements are: 

• FS 1800-6 for international volunteers 

• FS 1800-7 for individual volunteers 

• FS 1800-8 for sponsored or group voluntary 

service. 

These agreements allow the Forest Service to accept 

your services and work. In essence, the agreement is the 

contract between you and the Forest Service. You may not 

begin work or travel on an assignment until the agreement is 

signed. 

The volunteer agreement can be modified at any time 

with the written consent of each party. The existing agreement can be terminated, a new agreement can be developed, 

or a signed and dated amendment can be attached to the 

existing agreement.

Difference Between Individual 

and Sponsored Volunteer 

Agreements

The individual volunteer agreement is used for people 

who want to donate their time and talent to the Forest Service 

and are not associated with an organized group (figure 8). 

A sponsored volunteer agreement is used for people who 

belong to or are supervised by another institution or organization or by a unit of State or local government. Some of 

these groups include the Florida Trail Association, Girl or 

Boy Scouts (figure 9), and the Back Country Horsemen. 

These groups recruit, train, and host volunteers along with or 

in partnership with the Forest Service. These volunteers are 

documented as a group under the name of their sponsor 

organization on the sponsored volunteer agreement. In 

addition to the Forest Service guidelines and regulations, 

volunteers working under a sponsored volunteer agreement 

may be provided with guidance from their sponsoring 

organization. If you are working under a sponsored volunteer 

agreement, you will need to check with your host organization as well as your Forest Service volunteer coordinator to 

make sure you have all of the information needed to make 

your experience fruitful and enjoyable.

Figure 8—A volunteer at the International Institute of Tropical Forestry 

sorts organic litter. Courtesy of Elizabeth (Liza) Hernandez, Forest Service, 

International Institute of Tropical Forestry

Figure 9—A local Boy Scout helps with a National Trails Day habitat restoration project for the NatureWatch program. Courtesy of Heather Hundt, 

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Volunteers in the National Forests Program
7

What Are Partnerships?

The words “partnership” and “partners” are used in a 

broad way to describe relationships between the people, 

organizations, agencies, and communities that work together 

and share interests. The Forest Service regularly works in 

partnership with other entities, including Tribes, States, 

Federal agencies, nonprofits, businesses, and communities.

The word “partnership” also has a precise meaning. 

Federal policy defines partnerships as “arrangements that are 

voluntary, mutually beneficial, and entered into for the 

purpose of mutually agreed upon objectives.” In this definition, “mutual benefit” specifically means that each partner 

shares in the benefits the project provides.

Volunteer Qualifications

The Forest Service officer who negotiates and approves 

volunteer agreements determines the qualifications for each 

volunteer assignment. Your job description/essential eligibility criteria will be in the volunteer agreement. These criteria 

establish the nondiscriminatory basic functions and abilities 

required for volunteer service in the individual position or 

project. To be selected for and retained in the position or 

project, you must be able to meet all of the elements within 

the job description/essential eligibility criteria for that 

position or project. If you have a history of allergic reactions 

to bee stings or other insect stings, or may be affected by 

certain types of work, you need to inform your supervisor. 

If you are under the age of 18, you must have the written 

consent of one of your parents or guardians to enroll as a 

volunteer. Child labor laws pertain to those under age 18. 

Some work cannot be performed by youth who are under the 

age of 18. 

Supervision and Work 

Performance 

Your responsibility is to perform the work as described 

and agreed to in the volunteer agreement. The Forest 

Service’s responsibility is to provide adequate supervision 

(figure 10). A Forest Service supervisor should always be 

appointed for volunteers even if the supervisor can’t provide 

supervision every day. If the daily supervisor cannot be a 

Forest Service official, a qualified individual within the 

volunteer group or under the partnership agreement may 

provide daily supervision. Supervisors must be fully trained 

in all aspects of the project work and be familiar with Forest 

Service policies and procedures. 

Training

You will receive the basic knowledge and skills needed 

to do the job adequately and safely. 

Uniforms

You may need to wear a uniform if you have significant, 

frequent, or recurring contact with the public or when the 

uniform is important to establish your authority or to identify 

Figure 10—Volunteers prepare to do stream surveys, part of a mine site 

restoration project for the NatureWatch program. Courtesy of Scott Spaulding, Lolo National Forest

Volunteers in the National Forests Program
8

you as an agency representative (figure 11). Uniform policies 

for volunteers are covered in the Forest Service Manual 

(FSM) and Forest Service Handbook (FSH). See FSM 

1833.4; FSH 6509.11k, sections 48.03a and 48.03b-4. 

Expenses and Reimbursement 

You do not receive a salary from the Forest Service, but 

may be eligible to be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses 

(figure 12) related to transportation, food, lodging, and 

certain miscellaneous expenses that are “necessary, reasonable, and arise as a result of the voluntary work.” It is not 

possible to reimburse you for all of the out-of-pocket expenses you might incur and the intent is not to provide compensation or a stipend for volunteering. Reimbursement for 

expenses is negotiated on a case-by-case basis. 

Most volunteers will wear the volunteer uniform, which 

consists of a volunteer vest, volunteer windbreaker, and/or 

volunteer cap (FSH 6509.11k, sections 48.1-6 and 48.7, 

exhibit 03). Depending on the work, line officers may 

determine that a regular uniform is more appropriate for 

some volunteers (FSH 6509.11k, sec. 48.03b-4. If you will be 

wearing the regular uniform, it will be furnished. 

You must wear the uniform properly (FSH 6509.11k, sec. 

48.03d). This means the uniform must be neat, clean, and 

tidy. The field uniform must be complete in its components 

and cannot be mixed and matched with street clothes. For 

example, a uniform shirt cannot be worn with blue jeans and 

a district baseball cap. 

Timekeeping

It is important for you to record the number of hours you 

work and the amount of work accomplished. This responsibility may be assigned to you or may be assigned to your 

leader if you are working with a group of volunteers.

Responsibility and Conduct 

The Forest Service expects all its representatives to 

adhere to civic-minded principles in their personal conduct 

and to exhibit a high degree of personal integrity. Acceptable 

conduct involves sincere respect for the rights and feelings of 

others and the assurance their personal conduct will not 

harm or be considered discriminatory to other volunteers, 

employees, or the Forest Service—or cause an unfavorable 

reaction from the public. 

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Figure 11—A volunteer ranger working near Skunk Cabbage Meadows in 

the San Jacinto Mountains. Courtesy of Brad Eells, Forest Service Volunteer Association, San Bernardino National Forest, San Jacinto Ranger 

District

Figure 12—An Indian Boundary campground host uses his personal tractor 

to rip and grade Indian Boundary Beach. Courtesy of Mary Jane Burnette, 

Cherokee National Forest, Tellico Ranger District

Volunteers in the National Forests Program
9

While you are on duty you may not:

• Possess or use firearms except when authorized 

• Consume intoxicating beverages

• Possess or use any illegal drugs

• Use Government-owned or Government-leased 

vehicles, property, tools, equipment, or telephones for personal purposes

• Fight, use derogatory language, or participate in 

discrimination, sexual harassment, or violent or 

threatening behavior

• Have pets with you without special permission 

of the district ranger

• Violate any State game and fish regulation

• Violate any Federal, State, or local law

• Sell or distribute nonagency products or 

literature

• Disclose confidential information

Violation of any of the above prohibitions may constitute 

grounds for dismissal or other appropriate action.

Volunteer Rights

You, as a volunteer, have rights. These rights include:

• The right to be treated with respect

• The right to a workplace free of harassment

• The right to a workplace free of hostile conditions

• The right to a suitable assignment 

• The right to training

• The right to qualified supervision 

• The right to safe working conditions

Volunteers in the National Forests Program
10

The Forest Service is concerned about your safety as a 

volunteer. Safety is part of each work day; no job is 

so urgent or important that it cannot be done safely. 

A Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) will be completed and 

discussed for each job performed (figure 13). Refer to the 

“Health and Safety Code Handbook” (FSH 6709.11) for 

standards of safe and healthy working conditions. 

• Personal communication device

• Sunglasses and sunscreen lotion with UV 

protection for intense sun conditions

• Insect repellent when needed

Every volunteer is responsible for working in a safe 

manner and should point out unsafe practices and hazards to 

others. Specialized training is required to use some tools and 

equipment. 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as seat belts, 

hardhats, goggles, and so forth, are available and must be 

used. The following list includes common PPE requirements. 

Additional information on required PPE is in the “Health and 

Safety Code Handbook” (FSH 6709.11, chapter 70).

All work projects

• Appropriate first aid kit

All field work (figure 14)

• Forest Service-approved hardhat, as necessary

• Long pants, long-sleeved shirt, as necessary

• Gloves

• Nonskid boots

Personal Safety

The personal safety of volunteers is a primary concern 

for the Forest Service. Violence or the threat of violence by 

or against any volunteer is unacceptable. To help you protect 

your personal safety, take the following precautions when 

working with the public.

Figure 13—Instructing students in safety before electrofishing during a 

project for the NatureWatch program. Courtesy Dr. Jim Taylor, Ouachita 

National Forest

Figure 14—A volunteer wears appropriate personal protective equipment 

while maintaining the Florida Trail. Courtesy of Bob Stone, Florida Trail 

Association

Safety
11

When working in remote work locations:

• Use a check-out/check-in system.

• Carry a radio or cellular phone.

• Be familiar with the unit’s communication plan. 

Know whom to call.

• Don’t work alone.

• Be aware of your immediate area. Be suspicious 

of unusual or abnormal activity, objects, or individuals.

• If you are confronted by an angry person, keep 

a safe distance away. If the person does not 

quickly calm down, leave the area immediately.

• If you think a situation or person may be 

dangerous, leave the area and report it to a 

supervisor, local authority, or the nearest law 

enforcement agency.

For more information, refer to the Forest Service’s 

“Personal Safety in Remote Work Locations” video series, 

also available on DVD (a copy of this program can be 

obtained from your volunteer coordinator).

When working in the office:

• Work in pairs, when possible. 

• Have two exits from behind any desk and have 

an escape route to a safe area.

• If you are confronted by an angry person, keep 

a safe distance away. If the person does not 

quickly calm down, immediately leave the area.

• If you think a situation or person may be 

dangerous, leave the area and report the incident 

to a supervisor or law enforcement officer. 

• If protesters show up at the office, lock the door 

and call a law enforcement officer.

• When you have money in the office for fee 

collections and sales, keep the money locked up 

and out of sight. If someone robs you at the 

office, hand over the money. Call a law enforcement officer once the robber has left. 

Travel

You may travel by vehicle, foot, animal, or all-terrain 

vehicle while working for the Forest Service. 

Vehicles 

Volunteers may operate Government vehicles if the 

volunteer agreement authorizes them to do so and the use is 

for official business. Volunteers must be trained, tested, 

qualified, and certified in the same manner as Forest Service 

employees. To operate Government vehicles, volunteers must 

hold a valid State driver’s license and take a defensive 

driving training course every 3 years (a Forest Service, a 

National Safety Council, or an equivalent defensive driving 

course). If approved to drive, a volunteer may be issued a 

letter of authorization in place of Form OF-346, U.S. 

Government Motor Vehicle Operator’s Identification Card 

(FSH 7109.19, chapter 60).

When driving:

• Drive defensively.

• Drive with the lights on at all times.

• Wear seatbelts (no exceptions).

• Observe speed limits.

• Have a spotter assist when backing.

• Take plenty of breaks.

• Don’t smoke.

• Don’t eat.

• Don’t pick up hitchhikers.

• Don’t use cell phones.

Never operate a vehicle if you have been drinking 

alcoholic beverages.

Foot Travel

When volunteers know the area and prepare for the job, 

they’re much more likely to have an enjoyable experience 

(figure 15). Here are a few commonsense suggestions for hiking or working in the field. Check a project’s JHA for 

specific requirements. 

Safety
12

• Watch your step and make sure you have secure 

footing. Walk, don’t run.

• Maintain a safe walking distance between 

people.

• Always be on guard for falling trees, snags, 

limbs, rolling logs, or rocks.

Horses and Packstock

Many volunteers use their horses or other packstock 

while doing volunteer work (figure 16).

PPE requirements for foot travel include:

• Wear shoes with slip-resistant heels and soles 

with firm, flexible support. Work boots are 

required for trail crews. 

• Wear clothing suited to the location, climate, 

and job. 

• Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirt, and gloves, 

as necessary.

• Wear sunglasses or safety glasses in brushy 

country for eye protection.

• Wear sunscreen.

• Bring a communication device (two-way radio 

or cellular phone).

• Carry a first aid kit.

• Bring water.

• Bring lunch or a snack.

When traveling by foot:

• Avoid traveling or working alone. 

• Be sure others know where you are working.

• Do warmup and stretching exercises to prevent 

injury. 

Select the appropriate packstock for the specific work 

project or activity. Animals that display dangerous characteristics or habits cannot be used. Forest Service defensive 

horsemanship training is required in the Northern Region 

and recommended elsewhere. To help you complete this 

training, the Missoula Technology and Development Center 

produced a defensive horsemanship training course “Defensive Horse Safety.” This course can be obtained from your 

volunteer coordinator. 

Standard PPE for riding includes: 

• First aid kit.

• Riding boots, field boots, or work shoes that 

will not hang up in stirrups. 

Figure 15—Volunteers pick up trash along the Tellico River in 3 inches 

of snow during March 2008 as part of the annual Tellico River cleanup. 

Courtesy of Mary Jane Burnette, Cherokee National Forest, Tellico Ranger 

District

Figure 16—The Shasta Trinity unit of the Backcountry Horsemen of California provided all the logistical support for a project in the Trinity Alps. 

Courtesy of Larry Shuman, Shasta Trinity unit

Safety
13

• Protective head gear designed for riding is 

recommended for inexperienced riders and 

should be available on request.

Safe riding practices include:

• Always speak to an animal when approaching 

it. 

• Check the animal’s shoes for excessive wear 

and looseness. 

• Inspect the bridle and saddle to ensure they are 

in good condition. 

• Always lead an animal around after it has been 

saddled.

• Be alert for insects, animals, objects, and 

people that may spook the animal.

• Do not wrap or tie reins around the saddlehorn. 

• Watch out for low-hanging obstacles, such as 

branches and wires.

• Do not run the animal.

• Always have a pocket knife or a multipurpose 

tool where your can reach it.

• Do not secure tools or equipment on stock that 

are being ridden. Don’t carry tools in your 

hands while riding.

• When tying a horse, secure it to a post or tree 

(or something else that cannot be easily moved 

or broken) with a slip knot. In an emergency, 

the slip knot can be pulled loose quickly and 

easily.

• Get off and lead a horse over excessively rocky 

or very steep terrain or other areas where the 

horse may not have secure footing.

All-Terrain and Utility Terrain Vehicles 

(ATVs and UTVs)

Many ATV and UTV riders enjoy the outdoors and use 

the national forests for recreation. Many of these riders 

volunteer to maintain, patrol, and clean up trails (figure 17a). 

If you want to use your ATV or UTV while volunteering, you 

will need to meet some requirements before going to work. 

Only qualified and authorized volunteers can operate ATVs 

and UTVs. Qualifications include:

• Familiarity with the Forest Service DriverOperator Guide (EM–7130–2) and the ATV/

UTV manufacturer’s operating manual. 

• Successful completion of the ATV Safety 

Institute (ASI) ATV Rider Course training or 

equivalent training that is approved by the 

forest supervisor, assistance director, or line 

officer having responsibility for the task or 

project. 

• A valid Operator’s Identification Card, OF-346, 

which documents the rider’s qualifications. For 

volunteers, a letter of authorization may be issued 

in place of Form OF-346 (FSH 7109.19, chapter 

60).

• Reevaluation by a certified trainer every 3 

years. Infrequent users (less than 16 hours of 

rides a year), including volunteers, must have a 

check ride by a certified trainer before using an 

ATV/UTV. 

Figure 17a—Club members volunteer to help the Forest Service keep the 

trails safe by removing litter and debris. Courtesy of Lisa Marcum, Daniel 

Boone Trailblazers ATV Club leader

Safety
14

PPE requirements for ATV and UTV travel include: 

• First aid kit

• Personal communications device

• Motorcycle helmet (full or three-quarter face)

• Gloves

• Long pants and long-sleeved shirt or jacket

• Appropriate footwear

• Eye protection

When operating an ATV or UTV: 

• Operators shall be authorized in writing by 

their supervisor to operate an ATV/UTV.

• The supervisor shall ensure that a JHA is 

prepared for each work activity involving use of 

ATV/UTVs. For more information on what 

should be considered in the JHA, see FSH 

6709.11. 

• All participants shall review the hazards 

identified in the JHA for the project or trip 

before beginning operations. Changes in 

operating conditions require reevaluation of the 

JHA and necessitate a review of any new 

hazards.

• Before riding, always perform a maintenance 

check such as T-CLOC (Tires/Controls/Lights/ 

Oil/Chassis), ASI checklist, or a similar check 

as specified by the manufacturer. 

• An annual maintenance inspection by the 

manufacturer, a certified ATV/UTV mechanic, 

or the fleet manager’s designee is required. 

• Do not carry passengers on ATVs.

• Carry no more than the manufacturer’s recommended number of passengers on UTVs. The 

operator and each passenger shall have their 

own seat belt, and it must be fastened at all 

times when the vehicle is in motion.

When parking the ATV/UTV:

• Engage brake.

• Shift transmission into low range/low gear. 

• Block tires when parking on an incline/decline.

• Turn off and remove keys if appropriate.

• If parking for longer than 1 or 2 days, turn fuel 

supply line valve to “Off.”

When carrying equipment, equalize the load to maintain 

balance, stability, and center of gravity. Never exceed the 

manufacturer’s maximum carrying capacity of either axle or 

cargo rack as specified in the ATV/UTV owner’s manual. 

Follow the manufacturer’s loading instructions.

• Secure all tools or equipment transported on 

ATV/UTVs. Observe additional precautions 

when carrying liquids.

• Secure equipment on an ATV as close to the 

rider as possible to keep the center of gravity 

close to the center of the machine, but not 

where the equipment will make it difficult for 

the operator to dismount in an emergency.

• Do not exceed the manufacturer’s maximum 

towing capacity specified in the vehicle owner’s 

manual. The manufacturer’s specified towing 

capacity varies depending on grade or slope of 

the terrain to be traveled. In addition, do not 

exceed the trailer’s weight rating.

• Do not drive recklessly, speed, or engage in 

horseplay (figure 17b).

• Do not enter deep or swiftly moving water. 

• Do not modify the frame, electrical systems, or 

other components of the ATV/UTV’s mechanical configuration (with few exceptions).

• Develop and follow a check-out/check-in 

procedure. Provide a copy to the supervisor.

Safety
15

• The JHA must include chemical name, classification, quantity, and precautions to be taken in 

the event of an accident when hazardous 

materials or pesticides are being transported. 

Ensure that the JHA includes the actions to 

activate emergency procedures as appropriate 

for the region and State in the event of an 

accidental discharge. 

• Each UTV must have at least one secured 2.5-

pound ABC fire extinguisher when UTVs are 

transporting external fuel containers.

• Riding alone is prohibited, unless authorized by 

a supervisor and addressed in the JHA.

The above information came from FSH 6709.11, chapter 

10, secs. 13-13.24, interim directive–exp. 8/6/09. For possible 

changes in this information, refer to FSH 6709.11.

Weather

It’s important to consider the weather when preparing for 

a volunteer project.

Hot Weather Conditions

Individual differences in heat tolerance are related to 

fitness, hydration, illness, drugs, medication, and fatigue. 

Heat stress occurs when the body’s temperature rises beyond 

safe limits.

When working in hot climates (figure 18):

• Schedule the hardest work during cooler hours 

of the day. Set a moderate work pace. As the 

temperature increases, stop for frequent rest 

periods of at least 15 minutes. Relax in cool 

locations, where possible. 

• Always have an adequate supply of water and 

sports drinks (with carbohydrates and electrolytes) available. 

• To prevent dehydration:

§ Drink 8 to 16 ounces of water before work.

§ Take frequent drinks during each hour of 

work.

W

a

f

H

s

Figure 17b—Members of the Daniel Boone Trailblazers ATV Club help 

in maintaining safe trails for everyone to enjoy. Courtesy of Lisa Marcum, 

Daniel Boone Trailblazers ATV Club leader

Figure 18—Sabino Canyon, Coronado National Forest. Courtesy of Steve 

Slocomb, Hamilton, MT

Safety
16

§ Drink as much water as possible at lunch 

and the evening meal.

§ Continue replacing fluids throughout the 

evening.

§ Limit caffeine drinks, such as coffee or 

cola. 

• Wear hardhats. They will help keep your head 

cool.

• Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored 

loose clothing that allows air to circulate and 

sweat to evaporate (while also protecting you 

from sunburn). 

• Refer to the “Health and Safety Code Handbook” (FSH 6709.11) for symptoms and 

treatment of heat stress, heat exhaustion, and 

heat stroke. 

Cold Weather Conditions

The best defense against frostbite and hypothermia is to 

avoid exposure. Always check weather conditions and be 

familiar with the area before trips. Remember, hypothermia 

can occur on warm days if a person is exposed to cold water 

for a prolonged period of time.

While working in cold conditions (figure 19):

• Get adequate rest.

• Always anticipate bad weather: 

§ Carry additional warm clothing.

§ Dress for the conditions in layers of loose, 

dry clothes with polypropylene or wool 

underneath and windproof or waterproof 

layers on the outside.

§ Ensure that hands, feet, face, neck, and 

head are covered and well protected.

• Keep active to maintain the body’s metabolism 

and temperature.

• Drink warm water to prevent dehydration. Avoid 

drinking cold water or eating snow or ice.

• Travel in pairs (at a minimum).

• Refer to the “Health and Safety Code Handbook” (FSH 6709.11) for symptoms and 

treatment of frostbite and hypothermia. 

Lightning

A sudden reversal of wind direction, a pronounced rise 

in wind speed, and a sharp drop in temperature are indications of a thunderstorm (figure 20). Keep informed; know 

what the storm is doing. 

Figure 19—East Fork of the Bitterroot River, Bitterroot National Forest. 

Courtesy of Steve Slocomb, Hamilton, MT

Safety
17

• If you are in an area with isolated trees or open 

country, the best protection is to make yourself 

as small a target as possible. Drop to your 

knees, bend forward with your hands resting on 

your knees, and keep twice as far from the 

nearest tree as it is tall. To minimize the flow of 

the electrical current, keep your feet together. If 

you have companions, don’t stay close to one 

another.

Plants, Insects, and Snakes

Encounters with toxic plants, stinging and biting insects, 

or poisonous snakes can put a damper on the volunteer 

experience. Awareness is the first step toward prevention and 

treatment.

During a thunderstorm:

• Put down all tools. Turn off generators and 

electrical equipment. Do not use radios, 

telephones, electrical equipment that’s plugged 

in, or plumbing fixtures.

• Stay away from horses and packstock.

• Stay in your vehicle—unless it runs on metal 

tracks, doesn’t have a metal top, or is open.

• Get away from water tanks, ponds, streams, and 

lakes. Avoid ridgetops, hilltops, wide open 

spaces, ledges, outcrops, sheds or shelters in 

exposed locations, or tall objects such as lone 

trees. Keep away from wire fences, telephone 

lines, electrically conductive objects, and 

railroad tracks. 

• Take shelter in a building. If no buildings are 

available, the best protection is a deep cave 

(lightning is attracted to cave openings), ditch, 

tunnel, or canyon.

Figure 20—Volunteers need to take cover when lightning occurs.

Safety
18

Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac

All three of these plants (figure 21) emit an oil called 

urushiol. This oil is the toxin that makes you itch. The oil is 

present on the leaves, stems, and roots of these plants 

whether they are live, dried up, or dead. 

If these plants burn, the oil vaporizes and is carried in 

the smoke. Breathing the fumes can threaten the lives of 

some individuals.

The only places where you won’t encounter these toxic 

plants are Hawaii, Alaska, the rain forests of Washington, 

and some desert areas in the West.

Figure 21—(top) Eastern poison ivy. Courtesy of Chris Evans, River to 

River Cooperative Weed Management Area, Illinois; (middle) Atlantic 

poison oak. Courtesy of David J. Moorhead, University of Georgia; 

(bottom) Poison sumac. Courtesy of Ted Bodner, Southern Weed Science 

Society. All photos from ForestryImages.org

Safety
19

When working in areas with toxic plants:

• Know how to recognize toxic plants and avoid 

them.

• Provide and apply a barrier lotion (such as Ivy 

Block) with 5-percent bentoquatam. 

• Wear appropriate field attire, including a longsleeved shirt, long pants, and socks.

• Fasten pant legs securely over boot tops.

• Wear gloves and keep them away from your 

face and other exposed areas of the body. Do 

not touch your skin with hands, clothes, or 

equipment that may have contacted toxic plants.

• Do not wash with soap and/or hot water 

because doing so can remove the natural 

protective oils from your skin.

First aid:

• Whenever your skin contacts a toxic plant, 

wash the area with cold water as soon as 

possible.

• If symptoms appear (inflammation and a rash), 

apply topical ointments, such as calamine lotion 

or zinc oxide, for relief from itching.

Ticks

Ticks carry Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado 

tick fever, tick paralysis, Lyme disease, tularemia, and relapsing fever (figure 22).

When working in an area likely to have ticks:

• Wear light-colored clothing that fits tightly at 

the wrists, ankles, and waist. Each outer 

garment should overlap the one above it. Cover 

trouser legs with high socks or boots and tuck 

shirttails inside trousers.

• Spray clothes with an insect repellent. 

• Search your body repeatedly, especially areas 

with hair and inside your clothing, because 

ticks usually are on you for several hours before 

they become firmly attached.

First aid:

• Remove ticks with fine-tipped tweezers or your 

fingers. Grasp the tick as close as possible to 

the point of attachment and pull straight up, 

applying gentle pressure. Wash the skin with 

soap and water, then cleanse with rubbing 

alcohol. Do not try to remove the tick by 

burning it with a match or covering it with 

chemical agents. If the tick’s head detaches and 

breaks off in your skin or if the tick cannot be 

removed, seek medical attention.

• Once the tick has been removed, place it in an 

empty container so it can be given to a physician if you experience a reaction. Record the 

dates of tick exposure and removal. A large red 

spot at the bite is an early sign of trouble. 

Reactions within 2 weeks of the bite of an 

infected tick include fever, chills, headache, 

Figure 22—Blacklegged tick. Courtesy of Scott Bauer, USDA Agricultural 

Research Service, Bugwood.org

Safety
20

joint and muscle ache, significant fatigue, and 

facial paralysis. If you observe any of these 

symptoms, seek prompt medical attention.

Chiggers

In areas infested with chiggers (figure 23):

• Apply insect spray according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 

• Do not sit on the ground or on logs.

• Avoid walking through low vegetation, if 

possible.

• Bathe in hot, soapy water after leaving these 

areas.

First aid:

• Keep the affected area clean by washing with 

soap and water.

• Apply a topical hydrocortisone cream, antihistamine, or local anesthetic to help reduce the 

itching.

• Try not to scratch, if possible. Clip your 

fingernails short to limit the damage you might 

do while scratching.

• If you develop signs of infection, consult your 

physician.

Bees, Wasps, and Fire Ants

Some individuals are sensitized to bee (figure 24a) and 

wasp stings (figure 24b) and fire ant bites (figure 24c). They 

may react with a widespread rash, asthmatic breathing, 

swollen tissue, a drop in blood pressure, or even loss of 

consciousness. Volunteers with a history of allergic reactions 

to insect stings and bites should:

• Inform their supervisor.

• Carry epinephrine prescribed by a physician 

(be aware of the expiration date).

• Wear medical identification tags.

Figure 24a—Honey bee. Courtesy of David Cappaert, Michigan State 

University, Bugwood.org

Figure 24b—Paper wasp. Courtesy of David Cappaert, Michigan State 

University, Bugwood.org

Figure 23—Chigger. Courtesy of Susan Ellis, Bugwood.org

Safety
21

In areas with bees, wasps, or fire ants: 

• Wear light-colored field attire. 

• Avoid wearing scent of any kind. Bees communicate by scent and tend to be very sensitive to 

odors. 

• Avoid nests. Never poke or throw objects at 

nests.

• Shield your face with your arms if you are 

attacked by insects. Run until you reach shelter 

or the insects leave. 

First aid:

• Apply a cold pack.

• Remove the stinger by scraping or brushing it 

off with a sharp-edged instrument. Do not use 

tweezers to remove a stinger. The venom sac 

may be attached, so squeezing could worsen the 

injury.

• Seek medical attention if necessary.

Snakes

When working in areas where you may encounter snakes 

(figures 25a and 25b):

• Wear tall boots or protective snake-proof 

leggings.

• Be alert when walking through thick underbrush or areas obscured by foliage. Walk 

slowly and give snakes time to move out of 

your way.

• Be careful when placing your feet and hands. 

Never put your hands under any stored material. 

Be especially cautious when moving rocks.

Figure 24c—Red imported fire ant. Courtesy of USDA APHIS PPQ 

Archive, Bugwood.org

Figure 25a—Eastern diamondback rattlesnake. Courtesy of Jeffrey J. Jackson, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org

Figure 25b—Timber rattlesnake. Courtesy of Jeffrey J. Jackson, University 

of Georgia, Bugwood.org

Safety
22

• Probe areas with a hiking stick or long-handled 

tool before stepping over logs or piles of brush 

or debris. 

First aid:

• Stay calm. Snake bites in the United States are 

rarely fatal when medical care is sought early 

and appropriate antivenin is available.

• If you are bitten on an extremity, immobilize it 

and seek medical assistance. Do not use a 

tourniquet.

• Walk slowly if you are alone when bitten, 

resting periodically and using a makeshift 

crutch if the bite is on a lower extremity. Keep 

activity to a minimum.

Spiders and Scorpions

Few spiders in the United States can cause serious injury 

or death and even then, only in rare cases. The black widow 

(figure 26a) and brown recluse (figure 26b) are among the 

few. Both prefer dark, out-of-the-way places where they are 

seldom disturbed. Another dangerous spider is the aggressive 

house spider (also known as the hobo spider, figure 26c), 

usually found on ground or lower floors, especially in cool, 

moist window wells and basements. Its bite can be serious 

and requires immediate medical attention. 

Scorpion (figure 27) stings can be serious and in rare 

cases, lethal. Scorpions are nocturnal. Most live aboveground, hiding during the day in old stumps, lumber piles, 

firewood, loose bark on fallen trees, ground debris, or 

crevices. 

When you are working in areas with scorpions and 

spiders, take the following precautions:

• Do not leave work gloves, boots, jackets, or hats 

on the ground.

• Inspect sleeping pads, tarps, or other ground 

covers before use. 

c

g

f

c

s

Figure 26a—Black widow spider. Courtesy of Sturgis McKeever, Georgia 

Southern University, Bugwood.org

Figure 26b—Brown recluse spider. Courtesy of Division of Plant Industry 

Archive, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 

Bugwood.org

Figure 26c—Aggressive house spider. Courtesy of Whitney Cranshaw, 

Colorado State University, Bugwood.org

Safety
23

• Inspect and shake out clothing before you put it 

on.

• Inspect outdoor toilets before using them.

• Inspect logs, stumps, rocks, and any other areas 

before sitting on them.

• Wear gloves when moving or handling lumber, 

firewood, trash, rocks, or debris that could 

harbor spiders or scorpions.

Symptoms of a spider bite include:

• Severe pain and swelling around the bite

• Migraine headaches and impaired vision

• Nausea and vomiting

• Weakness and tiredness

• Difficulty breathing and swallowing

• Profuse sweating and salivation

• Irregular heart rhythms

Symptoms of a scorpion sting include:

• Rapid inflammation and pain around the sting

• Chills, fever, and joint pains

• Nausea and vomiting

First aid:

• Wash the area with soap and water.

• Apply a cold pack.

• Seek medical care as soon as possible (treatment may include antivenin). 

Chopping Tools

Chopping tools include axes, adzes, brush hooks, 

hatchets, machetes, and Pulaskis.

When working with chopping tools (figure 28):

• Wear appropriate PPE (hardhat, eye protection, 

gloves, and nonskid boots). Wear long pants and 

a long-sleeved shirt, as necessary.

• Carry the tool by grasping it around the 

shoulder of the handle close to the tool head, 

with your arm hanging naturally at your side. 

Never carry a chopping tool on your shoulder. 

Carry the tool on the downhill side so it is more 

easily discarded in a fall. 

• Remove all obstructions that might catch the 

tool.

• Keep bystanders out of the chopping area.

• Position your body securely while working. 

• Use a natural striking action; don’t chop cross 

handed.

h

Figure 27—Scorpion. Courtesy of Clemson University, USDA Cooperative 

Extension Slide Series, Bugwood.org

Figure 28—A volunteer wears appropriate personal protective equipment 

while using chopping tools on the Florida Trail. Courtesy of Bob Stone, 

Florida Trail Association

Safety
24

• Watch for springpoles (saplings bent over by 

fallen trees). If you are cutting a sapling that is 

bound down, be alert; it may snap up suddenly. 

If you don’t need to make the cut, leave the 

sapling alone.

• Use the tool properly—not as a wedge or maul.

• Stand on the opposite side of the log from the 

limb being chopped and swing toward the top 

of the tree or branch.

• Stop chopping if the cutting edge picks up a 

wood chip. Remove the chip before continuing.

• Keep the cutting edge of the tool almost 

perpendicular to the log or limb to prevent 

glancing blows.

• Use special foot and shin/leg protection when 

necessary. 

• Check the tool periodically for a loose head. 

Tighten as needed.

Cutting Tools

Cutting tools include saws, knives, chisels, files, shears, 

and snips. They must be handled with care. 

Wear safety goggles, gloves, and nonskid boots when 

working with cutting tools. Wear long pants and a longsleeved shirt, as necessary. Make sure tools are properly 

maintained and in good working condition. Never use a 

chopping tool to strike a cutting tool.

Chain Saws and Crosscut Saws

To operate a chain saw (figure 29) or crosscut saw, you 

must have completed an approved Forest Service training 

course and be certified. Basic first aid and CPR are also 

required, but are separate courses. Saw training and recertification are required every 3 years.

Bow Saws

When working with bow saws:

• Carry a bow saw over your shoulder with the 

guarded blade to the rear and on the downhill 

side. Ensure that the cutting edge faces away 

from your body, even when the guard is in 

place.

• Examine materials being cut for nails, knots, 

and other objects that may damage the saw and 

cause it to buckle. Hold pieces being cut firmly 

in place. If you are in a workshop, support the 

ends of long pieces with a bench to prevent the 

material from pinching at the cut.

• Start with a partial cut, then set the saw at the 

proper angle. Do not push or force the saw. 

Begin cutting with light, gentle strokes until the 

teeth begin forming a kerf (or slot).

• Watch for springpoles (saplings bent over by 

fallen trees). If you are cutting a sapling that is 

bound down, be alert; it may snap up suddenly. 

If there is no need to make the cut, leave the 

sapling alone.

Figure 29—The Chiloquin and Rogue snowmobile club members use chain 

saws to clear tree branches and other vegetation from drainage ditches 

on both sides of a Forest Service road, designated as a snowmobile trail. 

Fremont-Winema National Forests hosted a snowmobile trail maintenance 

work day to celebrate National Trails Day in June 2007. Courtesy of Erica 

Hupp, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Region

Safety
25

Files

When working with files:

• Use properly sized handles and knuckle guards. 

• Wear cut-resistant gloves.

• Tap the file into the handle by striking the 

handle end on a flat surface. Do not drive the 

handle with a hammer.

• Use the correct type of file for the work. Cut 

only during the forward pass of the file; do not 

file backwards. When filing small objects, 

clamp them securely in a vise or clamp. 

Pry and Tamping Bars

When working with a pry or tamping bar:

• Wear appropriate PPE, such as eye or face 

protection, foot protection, gloves, and a hardhat. 

• Make sure you have a secure fulcrum and 

toeholds. When prying, push with your palms. 

When applying leverage, keep your feet and 

other parts of your body out of line with the bar.

• Ensure that other people are far enough away so 

they won’t be struck with rock chips when you 

are breaking, chipping, or prying rock or similar 

materials.

• Carry bars at their balance point on the downhill 

side of your body.

• Replace bent or twisted bars. Bent or twisted 

bars can rotate during use, striking the user.

• Store bars so that they are not likely to tip over, 

roll, or fall.

Shovels

When working with shovels (figure 30):

• Keep shovels sharp, replacing them if either the 

shovel’s head or handle cracks, develops ragged 

edges, or splits. 

• Use a shovel properly, never as a pry bar.

• Support your upper body by bracing the 

forearm closest to your body against your thigh 

as you pivot the blade sideways.

Lifting and Carrying

• Check the intended route and the destination 

before moving a load.

• Bend and stretch gently to warm muscles.

• Check the load for weight and size. Do not try 

to lift or move material that is beyond your 

ability. If the load blocks your vision, get help.

• Check the load for nails, splinters, rough 

strapping, and sharp edges. Use a handtruck or 

other mechanical aid whenever possible.

• Stand close to the load with feet apart. Keep 

your heels down and turn your feet slightly out.

• Bend your knees, keeping your back as straight 

as possible.

• Center your body over your feet. Place your 

hands under the load with your palms up.

• Lift gradually and smoothly with your legs, 

arms, and shoulders. Keep the load close to 

Figure 30—The Oregon Trash Dogs use shovels to help clean up. Courtesy 

of Ginger Hamilton, Forest Service, Northern Region

Safety
26

your body. Rise slowly, straighten your knees, 

and stand.

• Avoid quick, jerky, or twisting motions. 

• Face the spot where the load is to be placed. 

Avoid lifting the load above your shoulders. If 

necessary, use a step stool or platform to get the 

load higher.

• Bend your knees, keep the load close to your 

body, and slowly lower it to waist level. Keep 

your back straight, supporting the load with 

your legs, arms, and shoulders.

• Don’t get your fingers and hands caught 

underneath the load.

Office Safety

You can help keep your workplace safe by practicing 

good housekeeping and making sure you know where the fire 

extinguishers and escape routes are.

While working in the office:

• Know the emergency evacuation plan.

• Know the procedures for bomb threats and 

other security issues.

• Know where to find first aid supplies.

• Keep walking and work areas free of obstacles. 

• Keep work areas, living spaces, and storerooms 

clean and neat, with all materials properly 

stored. 

• Use all furniture as intended by the manufacturer.

• Adjust workstations to meet your needs. 

• Place the heaviest loads in the bottom drawers 

of file cabinets. Open only one file drawer at a 

time.

• Do not place or store materials on top of file 

cases, cabinets, and bookcases.

• Do not place electrical cords under rugs or 

carpets. 

Figure 31—A retired director of the International Institute of Tropical 

Forestry now volunteers in the office to retrieve information from the 

library and research files. He also consults on forestry matters. Courtesy 

of Elizabeth (Liza) Hernandez, Forest Service, International Institute of 

Tropical Forestry

Safety
27

I

f you have sustained an injury, your health and welfare 

are the most important priority. Seek medical assistance 

immediately. 

The Albuquerque Service Center/Human Capital 

Management/Workers’ Compensation Section (ASC/HCM/

Workers’ Compensation) is the initial point of contact for 

processing and managing all work-related injury and illness 

claims. If you require immediate medical attention for a 

work-related injury, you, your supervisor, or another responsible party can call the Contact Center at 877–372–7248. 

Press “2” for HCM, then press “5” for Workers’ Compensation (between the hours of 7 a.m. and 6 p.m., MTD). Tell the 

Contact Center representative you are requesting authorization for medical treatment and you need to speak with 

someone in Workers’ Compensation. Your call will be 

transferred directly to Workers’ Compensation after you 

provide information needed by the Contact Center. If you are 

injured on a weekend or after hours, call 505–280–7691. If 

you still cannot reach anyone at Workers’ Compensation, 

don’t worry, you can get medical care from your chosen 

physician or the hospital emergency room. Workers’ Compensation can contact providers later. 

After seeking help, notify your supervisor/Forest Service 

volunteer coordinator of the injury. Injuries must be reported 

as soon as possible, but no later than 1 day after the incident. 

After addressing your immediate needs, your supervisor/

volunteer coordinator will have you file your claim through 

the Safety and Health Information Portal System (SHIPS), 

accessed through Dashboard. In most instances, your 

supervisor/volunteer coordinator will have to access SHIPS 

for you. After you complete your section of the CA-1, your 

supervisor/volunteer coordinator will need to complete their 

portion of the form in SHIPS. 

If you are unable to access SHIPS, you should file a 

paper copy of Form CA-1, “Federal Employee’s Notice of 

Traumatic Injury and Claim for Continuation of Pay/

Compensation,” without delay, entering the information into 

SHIPS later. Fill out the “Employee Data” and “Description 

of Injury” sections. Your immediate supervisor/volunteer 

coordinator must fill out the “Supervisor’s Report.” If there 

were witnesses to the injury, have them fill out the “Witness 

Statement.” Once everyone has signed the CA-1, your 

supervisor/volunteer coordinator will send it along with a 

copy of the volunteer agreement to Workers’ Compensation. 

If you have questions, you can contact your supervisor/

volunteer coordinator and/or call Workers’ Compensation at 

877–372–7248. Press “2” for HCM, then press “5.” 

Even if medical treatment is not required, fill out Form 

CA-1 to protect yourself and the agency if problems arise 

later. Even in cases where the injury does not appear to be 

work related, fill out a CA-1, just in case circumstances are 

not as they appear. 

For additional assistance, volunteers or supervisors 

should call the Contact Center at 877–372–7248. Press “2” 

for HCM, then press “5” for Workers’ Compensation. Once 

you request assistance through the ASC/HCM Contact 

Center, a Workers’ Compensation assistant or specialist will 

give you a direct number. They encourage questions from 

both volunteers and supervisors.

Injuries
28

Injuries
About the Author

Lisa Outka-Perkins received her master’s degree in sociology with an emphasis in criminology from the University of 

Montana in 2001. She works for MTDC as a sociologist and project leader. Her recent DVD projects include: “Personal 

Safety in Remote Work Locations,” “Wilderness Rangers: Keeping it Wild,” “Building Mountain Bike Trails: Sustainable 

Singletrack,” “Collecting Fees in the Field: Mitigating Dangers,” “Firefighter Cohesion and Entrapment Avoidance,” and 

"Working Along the United States-Mexico Border."

Library Card

Outka-Perkins, Lisa. 2008. Welcome to the Forest Service: a guide for volunteers. Tech. Rep. 0967–2813–MTDC. 

Missoula, MT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Missoula Technology and Development Center. 28 p.

This guide is intended to provide volunteers with a history of the volunteer program and some of the information they 

need to work safely and productively for the Forest Service. This guide is a companion to “Volunteers in the Forest Service: 

A Coordinator’s Desk Guide” (Tech. Rep. 0967–2814–MTDC).

Keywords: Back Country Horsemen; Boy Scouts; campgrounds; community involvement; community service; Federal 

Employees Compensation Act; forms; FS-1800-7; FS-1800-8; FSH 6709.11; FSM 1830; Girl Scouts; national forests; 

personnel; public service; recreation; Recreation, Heritage, and Volunteer Resources; Safety and Occupational Health; safety 

at work; training; VIF; volunteer agreements; Volunteers in the National Forests Act of 1972; Volunteers in the National 

Forests Program; Washington Office; WO; work places; workplaces

Additional single copies of the CD with the guide for 

volunteers and this guide for volunteer coordinators may 

be ordered from:

USDA Forest Service

Missoula Technology and Development Center

5785 Hwy. 10 West

Missoula, MT 59808–9361 

Phone: 406–329–3978

Fax: 406–329–3719

E-mail: wo_mtdc_pubs@fs.fed.us

For additional information about training volunteers, 

contact Lisa Outka-Perkins at MTDC:

Phone: 406–329–3849

Fax: 406–329–3719

E-mail: loutka-perkins@fs.fed.us

Electronic copies of MTDC’s documents are available 

on the Internet at:

http://www.fs.fed.us/eng/t-d.php

Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management 

employees can search a more complete collection of 

MTDC’s documents, CDs, DVDs, and videos on their 

internal computer networks at:

http://fsweb.mtdc.wo.fs.fed.us/search/