Welcome back! This Trained Serviceperson (TSP) Refresher Training is designed for volunteers who completed TSP training in 2025 and are interested in continuing their involvement in invasive species management with Five Rivers MetroParks.
This annual refresher is an opportunity to reconnect, review best practices, and ensure everyone is aligned on safety protocols, application techniques, and expectations before heading back into the field. We value the experience and commitment you brought to this work last year, and we’re excited to have you back on the team!
Invasive species continue to threaten native biodiversity and the health of our ecosystems. Trained Serviceperson volunteers play a key role in addressing these challenges by supporting staff-led invasive species removal efforts across our parks using targeted, low-impact herbicide application methods.
This is a limited-capacity training intended for volunteers who plan to participate in weekday “cut and treat” workdays alongside MetroParks staff during the 2026 season.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND? This refresher training is intended for volunteers who:
- Completed Trained Serviceperson (TSP) training in 2025.
- Are interested in continuing to support weekday invasive species management efforts.
DO YOU QUALIFY? To be eligible to attend this training, volunteers must:
- Have completed VTSP training in 2025
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Have an active Get Connected account and have completed the Five Rivers MetroParks volunteer onboarding process, including
- Complete Volunteer Profile
- Volunteer Handbook signature
- Eligible background check
WHAT YOU'LL REVIEW
This refresher training will include both classroom review and outdoor practice.
Classroom Review (approximately 2 hours, indoors):
- Pesticide Safety: Understanding health hazards, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and safe handling.
- Pesticide Laws and Labels: A breakdown of regulations and how to interpret pesticide labels.
- Recertification: Review of the Volunteer Trained Serviceperson training and completion of the recertification test
Outdoor Review (approximately 1 hour):
- Application Techniques: Hands-on review of approved, pre-filled applicator tools such as wands, daubers, and the EZ-Ject lance
- Field Practice: Review of field protocols and expectations, with practice applying herbicide in a realistic outdoor setting
*If weather conditions do not allow for the use of approved herbicide treatment tools during the outdoor portion, a makeup date will be scheduled for that component of the training.
WHAT TO EXPECT
This training includes both classroom and field components:
- Physical Requirements: Volunteers should be prepared to squat, kneel, bend, carry 10-15 lbs., and work in various weather conditions.
- Protective Gear: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Chemical-resistant gloves and safety glasses will be provided. (M-XL nitrile gloves will be available to layer over personal gloves for warmth.)
- Weather-appropriate Attire: A hat with a stiff brim is recommended for navigating wooded areas.
WELCOME BACK
We’re grateful for the time, energy, and care you bring to this work. This refresher training helps ensure our TSP volunteers feel confident, supported, and ready for another season of meaningful conservation impact.
Spots are limited - please review the training details carefully and sign up if you plan to participate this year.
