POST Partners Volunteer Program

Transcription

1 POST Partners Volunteer Program To provide opportunities for organized groups and/or individuals to make specific volunteer contributions in time and/or funding for the purpose of enriching and improving the Town of Castle Rock parks, open space and trails system. Question s call , postpartners@crgov.com or visit Updated January 2011

2 CONTENTS PROGRAM MISSION... 3 WHAT IS POST PARTNERS (FORMERLY ADOPT-A-PARK)?... 3 WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?... 3 WHY PARTICIPATE?... 4 WANT TO GET INVOLVED? HERE S HOW!... 4 BENEFITS OF THE POST PARTNERS VOLUNTEER PROGRAM... 5 WHAT ARE THE POST PARTNERS VOLUNTEER PROGRAM POLICIES?... 6 PARTNER LEVELS... 8 HOW TO APPLY OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION SIGN STANDARDS (FOR BEAR LEVEL ADOPTIONS ONLY) ORGANIZING A CLEANUP SAFETY GUIDELINES GROUP LEADER INCIDENT PROCEDURES EDUCATIONAL PATCH PROGRAM WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS FACTS ABOUT POISON IVY PARK, OPEN SPACE, AND TRAIL LOCATIONS FOR THE TOWN OF CASTLE ROCK TOWN OF CASTLE ROCK MUNICIPAL CODES CHAPTER UPDATED 10/23/ EAGLE AND LIFE SCOUT APPLICANTS COLORADO BLUEBIRD PROJECT COLORADO BLUEBIRD PROJECT OVERVIEW SAMPLE FORMS INDIVIDUAL APPLICATION (BEAVER AND SQUIRRELS LEVEL) -SAMPLE GROUP APPLCIATION (BEAR, ELK, OWL AND COYOTE LEVELS) - SAMPLE VOLUNTEER WAIVER AND INDEMNIFICATION FORM - SAMPLE INSPECTION CHECKLIST AND ROSTER FORM STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT - SAMPLE INCIDENT REPORT- SAMPLE VEST AND TRASH NABBERS CHECK OUT FORM - SAMPLE TOOL INEVENTORY REQUEST FORM POST PARTNERS CONTACT INFORMATION

3 PROGRAM MISSION Provide fun, skill-building volunteer opportunities that contribute to the beautification of the Town of Castle Rock parks, open space and trails. Increase awareness of Town parks, open space and trails. Encourage and recognize volunteer contributions and efforts. Develop an organized advocacy for parks, open space and trails. Build community pride in parks, open space and trails. WHAT IS POST PARTNERS (FORMERLY ADOPT-A-PARK)? Volunteer Program Packet POST Partners formerly was the Adopt-A-Park/Trail/Open Space program. It has been restructured to be an all-inclusive volunteer program that caters to the needs of youth and adult organizations throughout Douglas County. Parks staff believed it was necessary to accommodate the various requests made over the years to fill these needs. POST Partners offers opportunities for organizations and individuals wishing to commit to different levels of participation, including: Two-year adoption One-year adoption (school classes, after-school programs, etc.) Scout projects (Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Eagle Scouts, Girl Scouts, etc.) Land Stewards, for those who volunteer once or many times throughout the year Community Projects one-day or multi-day projects Community Service Workers, for students looking to receive credit for community service hours needed for graduation Donations either monetary or tangible WHO CAN PARTICIPATE? POST Partners is available to individuals or organized groups in the Town of Castle Rock or Douglas County. Some examples include, but are not limited to, Scout groups (both boys and girls), students from Douglas County school programs (either individually or as a whole class or club), cycling clubs, hiking clubs, running clubs, civic organizations, youth groups, church groups, sports groups and businesses. Individuals wishing to make a difference. 3

4 Douglas County School District high school students wishing to complete their required community service hours for graduation. Individuals or groups with a limited amount of volunteers also can contract at their expense a licensed landscape professional to perform the work required and approved under the POST Partners program. Groups also may donate the funds, equipment, materials, etc., necessary for the Parks and Recreation Department to maintain the area. An adult must supervise groups with members under age 18. WHY PARTICIPATE? Park patrons often notice the litter left behind by neglectful users and feel angry and frustrated that our natural environment is being treated this way. While others see a natural feature that they would like to make better by performing maintenance on a trail, revegetating areas that have been disturbed or by planting trees, shrubs or flowers to beautify the area. Now, you can put these feelings into action. There are more than 265 acres of parkland, 43 miles of trails and 2,725 acres of open space throughout Town. It s often challenging for Parks and Recreation staff to keep up with the tremendous use of our open space areas. Your volunteer efforts can make the difference in achieving the standards we all have for these areas. Your organization or business also will receive recognition through outlets such as our Town Web site, Partner Tracks newsletter, and the Parks & Recreation Department s annual report, approved signage at the adopted parcel and at the annual volunteer recognition event. Now, everyone who passes by your adopted area will know that you care for your community and are doing something about it. WANT TO GET INVOLVED? HERE S HOW! Keepers of the Rock: volunteer as a crew leader (meets one Sat. /mo.) Ridgeline Wranglers & Rhyolite Dirt Crew: volunteer on a trail maintenance crew (meets 1 weeknight and 1 Sat. per mo.) Adopt a Park: organization/group that meets monthly to clean-up a park, trail, or open space that they have Adopted (April-Oct.) Colorado Bluebird Project: Volunteer to construct, install or monthly monitor nest-boxes throughout Town Boy Scouts looking for projects to help them earn their rank of Eagle. Community Service projects for students looking to fulfill their graduation requirements. School partnerships for guided hikes, wildlife presentations, the Colorado Bluebird Project and more. 4

5 Cub Scout/Girl Scout community service activities and educational presentations for badges. Church Youth Group one-day community service activities. Volunteer to help with outdoor special events like April Stools Day, National Trails Day, Rockin the Fourth, Bike Race events, Tri-the-Rock, and more. BENEFITS OF THE POST PARTNERS VOLUNTEER PROGRAM COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT POST Partners provides opportunities for groups to help improve and maintain Town parks, open space and trails. As a volunteer, you will have a unique opportunity to donate services to the community and enjoy the results of your hard work. POST Partners volunteers become stewards of public lands by working to improve parks, open space and trail areas in a meaningful way for all to enjoy, as well as provide a team building activity ECONOMIC Your group or business can help enhance and maintain our public lands through cleanup efforts, tree plantings, weeding, monitoring wildlife and other projects that assist the Parks and Recreation Department in making tax dollars stretch further. The economic benefit also could be seen, with more people wanting to live or set up businesses in the healthy, beautiful environment created in cooperation with POST Partners. ENVIRONMENTAL Your effort and involvement in our parks, open space and trails increases public awareness of the importance of protecting our natural resources, generates pride in our parks system and demonstrates a commitment to this community and the environment. POST Partners brings a variety of organizations together with the Parks and Recreation Department to help maintain the appearance of public parks, open space and trails. As a group or business, you can create a better environment for yourself and your neighbors. Learn about trail maintenance, Colorado Bluebird Project, local wildlife and plant life and much more while working with our trails planner and/or natural resource specialist. INDIVIDUAL What better feeling can one have than the feeling of knowing that he or she makes a difference? You can make a difference in the aesthetics of your community, the health of the environment and the sense of pride people have in our parks system. Volunteering keeps you active and outdoors, gaining the many health benefits of an active lifestyle. 5

6 WHAT ARE THE POST PARTNERS VOLUNTEER PROGRAM POLICIES? When reviewing this document, the term Volunteer Coordinator refers to the Town of Castle Rocks Parks and Recreation Department s point of contact. Group Leader refers to the POST Partners adopting group s contact. 1. The adopting group must commit to the terms outlined in their Partner level as listed below. Each volunteer group will receive: POST Partners T-shirts Water bottles Partner Tracks newsletter Annual Report Recognition at the annual volunteer recognition event Recognition in the Parks & Recreation Dept. annual report 2. The adopting group must enter into a signed agreement with the Town of Castle Rock Parks and Recreation Department. 3. Parks, open space and trails are adopted firstcome, first-served. 4. Each area is unique, and each group has diverse skills and needs. For this reason, the Parks and Recreation Department will develop mutually agreeable expectations on a case-by-case basis. 5. Planting flowers, trees and shrubs and carpentry projects, such as installing and repairing benches, must be conducted under the guidelines of the POST Partners agreement and coordinated with the Parks and Recreation Department staff and Director. 6. All work must be performed during daylight hours. 7. All volunteers must follow safety guidelines. 8. Monitoring of the adopted area must be done regularly usually at least once a month during April through October and as weather permits in the cold season. Some sites may require additional time commitments. 9. POST Partners must perform organized litter control and/or park beautification workdays as agreed to remain in good standing in the program. Groups should provide the Volunteer Coordinator with at least one week s notice (preferably two) of their intent to perform 6

7 these workdays to assist staff with coordinating park resources. 10. All volunteers under age 18 must have responsible adult supervision. No children under age 7 will be allowed to participate in any POST Partners activities. Children under age 12 only will be allowed to collect paper trash, rake and plant. 11. Each POST Partners member must complete a Volunteer Waiver and Indemnification form annually and submit to the Volunteer Coordinator prior to the first workday. If a participant is under age 18, a parent or guardian also must sign the Volunteer Waiver and Indemnification form. Parents assisting with cleanups also must sign Volunteer Waiver and Indemnification forms. Additional family members can be added to the same form. 12. Group Leaders are responsible for completing an Inspection Checklist at the beginning and end of each scheduled workday. The Inspection Checklist documents the date, number of volunteers, hours worked, activities accomplished and condition of the adopted area. The Inspection Checklist is an important tool used by the Department to evaluate facilities and document volunteer contributions to the Town of Castle Rock Parks and Recreation system. Also, included on the reverse side of the checklist is an Audit Roster. Each participant must sign in/out on the roster at each workday, as it is turned in to our insurance carrier on a monthly basis. 13. POST Partners shall provide their own transportation and tools as necessary to accomplish the program requirements. Special arrangements can be made with the Volunteer Coordinator to borrow tools as needed. 14. Volunteer Groups shall agree to abide by Town regulations (Municipal Code Chapter Recreation Areas), which is included in this packet. 15. A designated Group Leader will be required for each organization to serve as the liaison to the Volunteer Coordinator. The Group Leader will be responsible for signing the Statement of Commitment, scheduling workdays, and ensuring compliance with the Statement of Commitment. 16. Group Leaders must have (or can borrow) a first aid kit and be aware of local emergency services in case of injuries. 17. Adopting groups may keep any proceeds from any materials with recyclable value that are found. 18. The Parks and Recreation Department will provide trash bags and will collect and dispose of filled bags after your workday. 19. Special Projects Volunteer groups are encouraged to identify special projects within their adopted areas and coordinate them with the Town of Castle Rock Parks and Recreation Department. Such activities are optional on the part of the POST Partners group and require the approval of the Director of Parks and Recreation. Special projects include conducting user surveys, removing noxious weeds, planting flowers, installing benches, repairing fences and constructing or repairing trails. 7

8 PARTNER LEVELS BEAR Two-year time commitment. Must meet at least once a month between April and October of each year. An adoption sign recognizing the group/organization s efforts will be ordered after three months of service and placed at the adopted location. ELK One-year time commitment. For school groups, after-school programs, businesses, etc., able to commit to seven months of stewardship. Elk will receive a plaque acknowledging the group s efforts at the end of the annual agreement. COYOTE Projects for Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Eagle Scout and packs and Girl Scout troops. Coyotes will receive special patches for their brag vests, acknowledging their contributions to the community. BEAVER For individuals who are available a limited amount of time but would like to contribute. These Land Stewards can participate by themselves or with other individuals who have the same interests. They can participate in community workdays or other available activities: assisting with displays, brochures, photography and interpretive program design; wildlife inventories; cleanup, weeding and habitat restoration; trail building and repair; trail host; bicycle rides; special events; recreational hikes; and office assistance, including database management, recruiting, marketing, sponsorships, newsletter, etc. Beavers must complete the Individual Volunteer Application to specify their volunteer interests. OWL For organizations wishing to conduct a one-day or multi-day Community Project. Community Projects include litter removal, graffiti removal, planting of shrubs, flowers and trees, weeding and special projects. SQUIRREL For students within the Douglas County School District wishing to complete their required community service hours for graduation. These Community Service Workers can participate in community workdays. Squirrels also may assist with special events and should complete the Individual Volunteer Application to specify their volunteer interests. DONATIONS OR SPONSORSHIPS The Castle Rock Parks and Recreation Department welcomes donations as part of the POST Partners program. These donations help us enhance our parks and open space with items that the department might not otherwise be able to afford. Included is a partial list of donation opportunities. 8

9 TREE LEGACY PROGRAM We know how difficult it is to lose someone you care about and how important it is to keep loved ones memories alive and growing. That s why we developed the Tree Legacy Program. This program allows donors to choose one of four trees to be planted in Town parks (with designated irrigation locations) for a nominal fee, which includes labor. A letter and certificate is sent to the recipient s family, acknowledging the memorial, and a gold leaf is placed on the Tree Legacy memorial plaque at Town Hall. Tree varieties to choose from include Goldenraintree, Northern Red Oak, Hackberry or Norway maple. Transplanting seasons are in the spring and late fall, when trees are dormant. Tree varieties include: Goldenraintree (Koelreuteria paniculata) Showy yellow blossoms in early summer followed by papery hanging capsules through October. Full sun. Grows to 30 to 40 feet with a 35-foot spread. Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra) Bristle-tipped leaves turn red in the fall. Leaves have seven to 11 waxy lobes. Grows as much as two feet per year for 10 years. Grows to 60 to 75 feet with a 45-foot spread. Hackberry A good landscaping choice; tolerates most conditions and is well suited to urban areas. Arching, broad crown. Grows to 40 to 70 feet with a 50-foot spread. Norway Maple (Acer platanoides) This fast growing tree transplants readily, tolerates a wide range of soil conditions and establishes quickly. Grows to feet. 9

10 MEMORIAL BENCH PROGRAM As an alternative to the Tree Legacy Program, the Memorial Bench Program offers donors the opportunity to purchase a bench in honor of a loved one. The benches are placed in areas of need throughout the Town s parks, and along paved trails. The benches are 6 feet wide and have a powder-coat finish in the same color as other permanent fixtures in the area. Memorial plaques inset in the bench include the honoree s names. PROJECT ASSISTANCE, DONATIONS AND DISCOUNTS Volunteer Program Packet POST Partners works with many scouts who take on projects with the Town in order to earn their rank of Eagle. Individuals and business often help out these scouts by donating money to help them cover their expenses, or businesses often discount or donate supplies that are needed in order to complete the project. INTERPRETIVE PANELS An interpretive panel is a permanent signboard placed along a trail as an environmental or historical educational tool. The signs provide information to trail users on topics such as wildlife, birds, wildflowers, butterflies, geology, trees and historical significance. ASSET PURCHASE OR FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION We welcome individuals, groups and businesses to purchase items from the Parks and Recreation Department s wish list or to make a financial contribution toward the purchase of an item. Examples of contributions and purchases of improvement items might be playground equipment, mulch, picnic tables, ball field mix, grills, trash receptacles, recycling carts, kiosks, bulletin boards, land restoration, plants and trees, to name a few. Prices vary each year as vendor rates change. NOTES Memorial items may not be placed at Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course, although sponsorship opportunities are available. Call and ask for the general manager. Thanks to generous contributions from Keepers of the Rock and local donors, Rock Park has reached capacity for donations of memorial items, including benches and trees. 10

11 HOW TO APPLY STEP ONE: SELECT AND SUBMIT AN APPLICATION FORM Once you select a facility to adopt, let us know by completing the appropriate (Individual, Group and Eagle/Life Scout) application form, calling the POST Partners Volunteer Coordinator at , postpartners@crgov.com, or visiting Parks and Recreation Staff will work with you to identify park needs. STEP TWO: REVIEW AND COMPLETE THE INFORMATION PACKAGE Once we confirm the proposed area is available and safe for adoption, we will send you a Volunteer Program Packet. The packet contains a Statement of Commitment, which describes the responsibilities of the Adopter and the Parks and Recreation Department for Bear Level adoptions, and a Volunteer Waiver and Indemnification form to be signed by all volunteers. Complete and sign both forms and mail them to or drop them off at the Castle Rock Recreation Center, 2301 N. Woodlands Blvd., Castle Rock, CO STEP THREE: POST Partners STAFF APPROVAL Once the POST Partners Committee approves the adoption and you sign the Statement of Commitment, your group is ready to start. All adoptions are first-come, first served. Groups will retain first right of refusal for their areas. Groups will assign a Group Leader to be the contact person for the Volunteer Coordinator. STEP FOUR: ORGANIZE AND PLAN YOUR FIRST CLEANUP Select a date for your first cleanup and arrange with the Parks and Recreation Department to have trash bags, trash grabbers, gloves and safety vests; available upon request. Special arrangements can be made with the volunteer coordinator to borrow tools (rakes, shovels, etc.) as needed. The Parks and Recreation Department will arrange to have the trash bags collected and disposed of. Use your Inspection Checklis to document the date, number of volunteers, hours worked, activities accomplished and condition of the adopted area. The Inspection Checklist is an important tool the Department uses to evaluate facilities and document volunteer contributions. Also, included on the reverse side of the checklist is an Audit Roster. Each participant must sign in or out on the Roster at each work day, as it is turned into our insurance carrier. Forms should be turned in monthly - no later than the 30th of each month. Provide the Parks and Recreation Department advance notice of subsequent cleanup days to check for scheduling conflicts and to ensure prompt pick up of all litter collected. Groups should provide the volunteer coordinator with at least one week's notice (preferably two) of their intent to perform work days to assist staff with coordinating park resources. 11

12 STEP FIVE: POST PARTNERS MATERIALS Volunteer Program Packet If your group is interested in receiving POST logo T-shirts and / or water bottles, provide the POST Partners volunteer coordinator with the approximate quantities and sizes needed. It is recommended that large groups wear POST Partners T-shirts when working on POST Partners projects. We encourage groups to take photos and send them to the POST Partners volunteer coordinator. STEP SIX: RENEWAL Within 60 days of the term expiration, POST Partners groups must submit a written request to the Parks and Recreation Department to continue with their adoption activities. OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION RECOGNITION POST Partners groups will receive recognition on the Parks and Recreation Department s Web site ( and in the Partner Tracks newsletter, which is distributed during the months of April through November and in the Annual Report. Bear groups also will receive recognition in the form of a standardized adoption sign posted at the sites they have agreed to maintain and a Certificate of Appreciation. (See Sign Standards for description of signage.) Elk will receive a plaque acknowledging the group s efforts at the end of the annual agreement (Statement of Commitment). Coyotes will receive special patches for their brag vests, acknowledging their contributions to the community. All POST Partners will be invited to the annual volunteer recognition event and will receive POST Partners T-shirts and other goodies. Each volunteer will receive: POST Partners T-shirts Water bottles Partner Tracks newsletter Annual Report Recognition at the annual volunteer recognition event Recognition in the Parks & Recreation Department annual report Pack 780 and 781 being recognized for their efforts at Butterfield Crossing Park 12

13 SIGN STANDARDS (FOR BEAR LEVEL ADOPTIONS ONLY) Volunteer Program Packet One sign will be posted at each adopted location, recognizing the group that adopted the park. It will be 24 inches tall by 12 inches wide. ORGANIZING A CLEANUP Group Leaders must contact the POST Partners Volunteer Coordinator at or postpartners@crgov.com, to schedule a cleanup. After a cleanup is scheduled, you should: Choose a primary contact person for the group. The Town will refer to this person as the Group Leader. Designate a place to meet before cleanup begins to give instructions, review safety procedures and distribute trash bags. Each POST Partners member must complete a Volunteer Waiver and Indemnification form annually and submit it to the Volunteer Coordinator prior to the first workday. If a participant is under age 18, a parent or guardian also must sign the Volunteer Waiver and Indemnification form. All family members, including parents who are assisting with the activity can be included on the same form. Only one Volunteer Waiver and Indemnification form is needed per calendar year. All forms must be submitted to the POST Partners Volunteer Coordinator. The Volunteer Coordinator will monitor and record all forms for the POST Partners group and will provide a spreadsheet outlining the forms received from participants. All forms collected should be turned in by the 30 th of each month. If work is being done by a contractor, a license number and copy of the contractor s Certificate of Insurance, naming the Town as additionally insured, must be provided. Group Leaders are responsible for completing an Inspection Checklist at the beginning and end of each workday. The Inspection Checklist documents the date, number of volunteers, hours worked, activities accomplished and condition of the adopted area. The Inspection Checklist is an important tool used by the Department to evaluate facilities and document volunteer contributions. Also, included on the reverse side of the checklist is an Audit Roster. Each participant must sign in/out on the roster at each workday, as it is turned in to the Town s insurance carrier on a monthly basis. Review safety guidelines with all participants. Stock and bring a first-aid kit! Determine who is responsible for child participants and keep them away from dangerous areas. Invite participants to bring their own rakes, work gloves and shovels. Tell participants to report all problems to the Group Leader. Tell everyone to return to the designated meeting place at the end of the cleanup 13

14 to report progress or problems. Make arrangements for trash bags to be collected or disposed of properly. Recycle materials whenever possible by placing recyclable materials in a bag labeled Recycle. Place it with the other garbage bags in the designated collection site. By scheduling the cleanup date with the Volunteer Coordinator, you are ensuring that your litter and recyclables will be collected. The adopting Group may keep any proceeds derived from recyclable materials cleared from the site during the cleanup as long as the group takes them to the appropriate recycling center. Participants are encouraged to submit photos taken at their workdays. The photos will be used to promote the group s work and the POST Partners program. Each participant has the option to agree to Photo Release terms on the Volunteer Waiver Indemnification Form (listed under I. on this form). Photos can be placed on a disk and submitted with your monthly paperwork or can be ed to the Volunteer Coordinator at postpartners@crgov.com. SAFETY GUIDELINES All participants should be advised of the following safety recommendations during cleanup: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat for protection from the sun. Wear leather work gloves and/or latex gloves at all times. Wear boots or closed-toe shoes. Do not work in the street, and use caution working near streets. Wear safety vests when working nearby roadways, parking lots, etc. Safety vests are available through the POST Partners Volunteer Coordinator. Stay within designated cleanup boundaries. Drink plenty of water. 14

15 Volunteer Program Packet Have all volunteers sign the Volunteer Waiver Indemnification form before participating. If volunteers are minors, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver. Additional family members can enter information on the same waiver form. Do not trespass on private property. Supervise children at all times. Lift objects with your legs, not with your back. Tie trash bags tightly. Leave pets at home. Obey all park rules and regulations. Beware of bees, poison ivy, poison oak and other irritants. Wear insect repellent. Do not apply any pesticides or herbicides. Provide to the POST Partners Volunteer Coordinator a cellular telephone number for the Group Leader, and list emergency contact numbers. Under no circumstances should you pick up any of the below items. Alert the Group Leader and others in the area immediately if you see: o Hypodermic needles, medical waste or condoms o Chemical containers o Dead animals o Sharp items (broken glass, nails, etc.) o Suspicious looking plastic bottles or water bottles Wash your hands thoroughly when done with the cleanup The Group Leader should notify the appropriate authorities if these items are identified. Emergencies call 911 Police Department (General and Animal Control) Fire Department (General) POST Partners Volunteer Coordinator Cell or Office 15

16 GROUP LEADER INCIDENT PROCEDURES Volunteer Program Packet POST Partners groups are voluntary and as such are individually responsible for any/all of their own injuries resulting from accidents. For record-keeping purposes, Groups must report all accidents and injuries within 24 hours to the POST Partners Volunteer Coordinator. Please follow the criteria below if someone in your group is injured. Assess what medical attention might be needed. If you or the injured person believes the injury is life-threatening, call 911 immediately. If the injury is not life-threatening, provide basic first aid from the provided on-site first aid kit. If an ambulance is not needed or requested, but if more medical attention is required, Town employees and crew leaders are not responsible for transportation to a medical facility. Please call the injured person s emergency contact to provide transportation. Fill out an incident report. Give the injured person a copy and turn the rest into the site supervisor or volunteer coordinator. EDUCATIONAL PATCH PROGRAM Are you a Scout, Troop or Pack Leader who is interested in providing new learning mechanisms to fulfill your badge requirements? Look no further the Town s Natural Resource Specialist will create a program to help fulfill your group s needs. For additional information, contact Natural Resource Specialist Barbara Spagnuolo, or bspagnuolo@crgov.com. 16

17 WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS While enjoying the open space, parks and trails, you may encounter many different types of wildlife. While viewing wildlife can be exciting, please use caution. A few tips are included for your information. Bear and lion attacks on humans are rare. Unexpected encounters or conflicts with wildlife can be prevented by talking or making some noise to warn bears and lions of your presence and keeping your dogs leashed and controlled to prevent conflicts between pets and wildlife. Remember to stay alert and aware of your surroundings. BLACK BEARS Black bears can swim, climb trees and run very fast. They can be seen in our area at any time, day or night, often searching for food such as berries, nuts, and insect s carrion. Do not feed, approach, or get between a bear and its food or cubs. Most black bear and human encounters involve food. Black bears usually avoid humans but some may be naturally curious. What to do if you encounter a black bear: Most importantly, stay calm and do not run away Avoid direct eye contact but keep an eye on the bear at all times Slowly back away Make lots of noise PRAIRIE RATTLESNAKES This is a poisonous snake found in grassland areas, most often seen sunning themselves on rocky outcrops or on trails. They mainly prey on rodents, but also feed on bird eggs and lizards. These snakes will rattle their tail as a warning if you approach too close, and may bite as a last resort. Poisonous snakes can be observed from a safe distance, as they are generally nonaggressive towards people unless they are startled, cornered or stepped on. What to do if you encounter a rattlesnake: Most importantly, remain calm and still at first Do not handle, move or harass the snake Give the snake lots of room and walk around it or back away 17

18 COYOTES Coyotes are found throughout Colorado in a variety of habitats, ranging from grassland to deserts to urban areas and mountains, as it is very adaptable. They are most common where rabbits, mice and gophers live and are generally active at night but sometimes active both day and night. However, urban coyotes can easily become used to living in close proximity to people and are frequently seen during the day in these urban environments. Although attacks on people are rare, urban coyotes may be aggressive and may associate people with food. What to do to prevent aggressive encounters: Protect your pet in the outdoors by keeping it on a leash or kept within an enclosed kennel or fenced yard. Do not let your dog run with coyotes. Don t feed coyotes or leave food outside. Keep your garbage in a tightly sealed container or storage facility. Keep your distance and don t approach a coyote. Throw rocks or sticks to frighten it away. MOUNTAIN LIONS Mountain lions are primarily solitary and most common in foothills and canyon country. They are most active dusk to dawn but will travel and hunt in daylight. They require sufficient cover in areas with a lack of human activity but are known to travel long distances in search of food. Their main prey is deer, which are hunted by stalking, but they also kill elk, porcupines, as well as a variety of domestic animals including pets. Lions will cover their kills with dirt and leaves and will return every few days to feed on it. What to do if you encounter a mountain lion: Most importantly, stay calm and do not run away Give the lion lots of room Look as large as possible (open your jacket wide, place your arms over your head) Move away slowly 18

19 FACTS ABOUT POISON IVY WHAT IS POISON IVY? Poison ivy is a 3-leaved plant found throughout America. All parts of the plant (leaves, vines and roots) contain an oil, called urushiol that causes an allergic reaction like a rash. Can grow as a bush or climb up trees and across the ground. HOW DO I GET A POISON IVY RASH? From touching it or touching something that has touched it. Inhaling smoke from firewood burning with poison ivy on it. There is risk year-round. CAN I BE IMMUNE TO POISON IVY? Some people may be immune or become immune. Immunity can be gained or lost as you age. Never assume immunity based on past experiences. Poison ivy in the summer. WHAT IS IT LIKE TO GET IT? At first, the allergic reaction will be a slight itchy spot, which gets worse. Severe reactions can cause giant red sores. Rashes can last from 1-3 weeks but can be treated with prescription remedies. CAN THE ALLERGIC REACTION BE PREVENTED? Wear long pants and long-sleeves to prevent direct skin contact. Rinse the affected area with lots of cold water within 1 hour. Wash the affected area (and clothes) with alcohol within 6 hours. Poison ivy in the fall. Poison ivy creeping up a tree or across the ground. 19

20 PARK, OPEN SPACE, AND TRAIL LOCATIONS FOR THE TOWN OF CASTLE ROCK PARKS Baldwin Park Bison Park Butterfield Crossing Park* Castle Highlands Park Castle North Park Centennial Park* Festival Park Founders Park Gemstone Park* Glovers Park Matney Park Disc Golf Course Metzler Ranch Park Mitchell Gulch Park* Paintbrush Park* Plum Creek Park Plum Creek and Gilbert Park Rhyolite Bike Park* Rhyolite Regional Park Triangle Park Wrangler Park 2417 Plum Creek Parkway 1390 Clear Sky Way 3952 W. Butterfield Crossing 1735 Granger Circle 801 Canyon Drive 22 N. Gilbert St. 300 Second Street 4671 Enderud Road 6145 Sapphire Pointe Blvd. 534 South Gilbert Street 5790 Lantern Circle 5790 Lantern Circle 4175 Trail Boss Drive 200 Mikelson Blvd Meadows Blvd Mount Royal Drive 215 Plum Creek Parkway To become a Crew Leader for Ridgeline Wranglers, contact Lisa Sorbo at Crystal Valley Parkway 804 Sixth Street 2418 Autumn Sage Court 20

21 OPEN SPACES AND TRAILS East Plum Creek Trail Downtown* East Plum Creek Trail The Meadows East Plum Creek Trail The Meadows to Wolfensberger Road East Plum Creek Trail Sabercat Way underpass* Gateway Mesa Open Space* Hidden Mesa Open Space (Douglas County) Memmen Ridge Open Space* Mesa Middle School Connection Trail* Mitchell Creek Open Space and Trail* Mitchell Creek Canyon Trail Extension* Native Legend Trail and Open Space Quarry Mesa Ridgeline Open Space* To become a Crew Leader for Rhyolite Dirt Crew, contact Lisa Sorbo at Rock Park* To become a Crew Leader for Keepers of the Rock, contact Dennis Carnahan at The Bowl *These locations currently are adopted 21

22 TOWN OF CASTLE ROCK MUNICIPAL CODES CHAPTER UPDATED 10/23/ Applicability Permitted uses Applicability. Chapter Recreation Areas General rules and regulations Violations and remedies This Chapter shall apply to all public parks, open space or recreational lands, water or park facilities owned or operated by the Town, which are managed or administered by the Parks and Recreation Department. The term recreation area is used in this Chapter to refer to such public areas and facilities. (Ord (part), 1992) Permitted uses. The Parks and Recreation Department is authorized to place appropriate signage in the recreation areas to advise the public of the permitted activities and prohibitions within the recreation areas. (Ord (part), 1992) General rules and regulations. The following rules and regulations shall apply to all recreation areas. Additional rules and regulations may apply to specific recreation areas as promulgated by the Parks and Recreation Department and posted at such site: A. Closed Areas. It shall be unlawful to enter, use or occupy a recreation area during the time such recreation area is closed to entry, use or occupancy. B. Vandalism. It shall be unlawful for any person or persons to remove, damage, deface or destroy any real or personal property, wildlife habitat or vegetation. C. Litter. It shall be unlawful to deposit or leave any refuse, trash or litter in or upon any recreation area except by depositing such refuse, trash or litter in designated refuse receptacles. D. Fires. It shall be unlawful to build, start or light any fire of any nature in any recreation area except in outdoor fireplace grills or camp stoves within designated areas. E. Hunting. It shall be unlawful in any recreation area to hunt, trap, catch, molest, harm, kill or chase any wild animal or bird, or to molest their habitat. F. Firearms and Deadly Weapons. Except for law enforcement officers in the performance of their duties, it shall be unlawful for any person to openly carry a firearm upon any recreation area upon which the Town Manager has directed to be posted a notification that the carrying of firearms is prohibited. It shall be unlawful to discharge or use explosives, firearms, BB guns, pellet guns, air guns, crossbows, long bows or slingshots while upon any recreation area, except in designated areas or by law enforcement officers on official duty.

23 G. Motorized Vehicles. Parking or driving of unauthorized motor vehicles on a recreation area is not permitted, except on designated roadways and parking areas. H. Camping. It shall be unlawful to camp overnight in any recreation area, except in areas, which are designated for camping. I. Dogs. Dogs are not permitted to run at large in any recreation area. All dogs must be on a leash, cord or chain and held by a person physically able to control the dog. J. Dumping. It shall be unlawful to dump commercial or household refuse or any hazardous substances within any recreation area or in any trash containers placed on such land. K. Hazardous Activities. It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in any activity on any recreation area, which constitutes a hazard to the safety of other persons, except in areas where such activity is specifically authorized. L. Signs. Posting of signs of any kind is prohibited, with the exceptions of signs erected and maintained pursuant to and in the discharge of any governmental function, or as required by any law, ordinance or governmental regulation, except as authorized in writing by the director of parks and recreation. M. Fireworks. It shall be unlawful to discharge fireworks on any park or open space lands except when authorized in writing by the director of parks and recreation. N. Commercial Activity. It shall be unlawful to conduct any commercial activity, or provide any service, product or activity for which a fee is charged, on any park or open space lands, except when such activity is authorized in writing by the director of parks and recreation. O. Alcoholic Beverages. As provided in Chapter 9.12 of this Code, it shall be unlawful for any person to consume, serve, sell or possess or have under his or her control, in any recreation area, any alcoholic beverage, except when a special events permit is issued pursuant thereto. P. Hours of Use. All park and open space areas shall be closed to public use between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. unless accepted in writing by the Director of Parks and Recreation. Q. Encroachment on Public Property. It shall be unlawful to construct or place any unauthorized permanent or temporary structure or obstruction on any public property or to block access of said public property to the general public. These regulations shall not be applicable to nor prohibit any act by any officer or employee of the Town who is engaged in the performance of any act within the scope of his or her employment. (Ord , 2003; Ord , 1999; Ord , 1993; Ord (part), 1992) Violations and remedies. A violation of the rules and regulations set forth in Section shall be punishable by incarceration for a period not to exceed one (1) year or a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00), or both. (Ord (part), 1992) 23

24 EAGLE AND LIFE SCOUT APPLICANTS Volunteer Program Packet POST Partners offers opportunities for Boy Scouts wishing to complete a project toward the rank of Eagle or Life Scout. Interested individuals must: Complete an Eagle and Life Scout application Individuals must be at least 15 years old at time of application to be considered for a project Individuals who are selected to complete a project must submit a project write-up for approval Once application is received, the POST Partners Volunteer Coordinator will contact the applicant to schedule a meeting to discuss the Eagle Scout project process, which is outlined in the POST Partners Eagle Scout Program Packet that will be distributed to the applicant. Additional information including potential projects for rank of Eagle, Life or Star scouts can be found online at 24

25 COLORADO BLUEBIRD PROJECT The Colorado Bluebird Project operates under the guidance of the Audubon Society of Greater Denver and is offered through POST Partners in Castle Rock. This is a volunteer-run project, whose mission is to improve the vitality of bluebird populations throughout Colorado and to inform and educate the public about bluebirds. Volunteers of all ages are welcome to assist with monitoring of the nest boxes from April through August. Volunteers also are needed to assist with nest box construction and installation in the spring and removal in the fall. To apply for the program, complete the Individual Volunteer Application and submit it to the POST Partners volunteer coordinator. Once received, the POST Partners Volunteer Coordinator will send the applicant a Volunteer Waiver and Indemnification Form as well as a Colorado Bluebird Project Training manual. Typically, training is held in March of each year at the Philip S. Miller library. Contact the POST Partners Volunteer Coordinator for dates and times or visit Locations of bluebird nest boxes in Castle Rock as of 2011 Bluebird boxes are located throughout Castle Rock on various public parks, open space areas, trails and school properties. Bison Park Butterfield Crossing Park Douglas County High School Gateway Mesa Open Space Gemstone Park Memmen Ridge Open Space Mesa Middle School Mitchell Gulch Park Native Legend Trail Renaissance Magnet School Rhyolite Regional Park Stewart Trail at Ridgeline Open Space Barbara Spagnuolo and Lisa Sorbo 2010 Blue Grama Award 25

26 COLORADO BLUEBIRD PROJECT OVERVIEW Volunteer Program Packet What is the Colorado Bluebird Project? This project operates under the guidance of the Audubon Society of Greater Denver. Its mission is to improve the vitality of bluebird populations throughout Colorado and to inform and educate the public about bluebirds. What is a Bluebird? Bluebirds are social migratory songbirds and one of the few North American birds that are mostly blue in color. There are three species of bluebirds but only two have been sighted in Castle Rock: Mountain Bluebird and Western Bluebird (Eastern Bluebird is found mostly in eastern Colorado). They are secondary cavity nesters, meaning they must rely on other species used nesting cavities or artificial nest boxes. They feed mainly on insects but also wild fruit, berries and mealworms. Mountain Bluebird Western Bluebird Western Bluebird What is a Bluebird nest box? A nest box is an artificial nesting cavity for bluebirds, but can also be used by Violet-green Swallows and Tree Swallows, usually made of untreated pine, redwood or cedar wood. The boxes are installed in late March, before the bluebirds return from winter migration. There are specifications for nest boxes designs provided by the North American Bluebird Society, which are designed with an overhang, a pivoting side or top for monitoring and cleaning, as well as specific features to keep out predators and other non-native bird species. Why do we put up nest boxes? Over the years, bluebird habitat has been cleared for development and natural nesting cavities (old trees and wooden fence posts) have been greatly reduced or replaced with metal posts. Even though these events led to a population decrease, providing artificial nest sites (bluebird nest 26

27 boxes) is an important step to help bring back the bluebird. Nest boxes are placed within public open space areas either along fence lines or near existing trails creating a bluebird trail. Since placement of the boxes in suitable habitat is one of the most important factors for attracting bluebirds, these boxes are placed in open grassland areas with scattered trees or shrubs and plenty of perch sites such as fence lines. Why do we monitor nest boxes? It is very important that bluebird nest boxes are actively monitored or checked at least once a week. Doing so increases the chances of success for bluebirds and provides important information to track population trends. Monitoring also identifies cases of blowfly parasitism or non-native and unwanted species, such as the House Sparrow, using the box. Monitoring usually occurs between April and the end of August, after the nesting efforts have ended for the season. How is the Town of Castle Rock involved in this Project? In Castle Rock, this project is managed through the POST Partners Volunteer Program. The monitoring data sheets are submitted to the Colorado Bluebird Project and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology for the national database of bluebird populations. Castle Rock has been involved with the Bluebird Project since At the end of 2010, there were 63 boxes located at 10 different parks, trails, open space areas and schools around Castle Rock. How can I help? Helping bluebirds is a great environmental, hands-on project that people of all ages can enjoy. Volunteers in Castle Rock are needed to help build and install nest boxes. More importantly, volunteers are needed to monitor the nest boxes weekly during the spring and summer months to collect important nesting data. Assistance is also needed at the end of the summer to retrieve the nest boxes for winter storage. Monitoring typically involves one-hour visits, often with off-trail hiking. What if I am working to become an Eagle Scout? Boy Scouts looking to earn their Eagle Scout rank are encouraged to participate in the Bluebird Project. Participation includes nest box construction and installation, as well as a minimum oneyear commitment to monitor the boxes and collect nesting data. The location of the bluebird trail will be determined by Town staff, based on habitat, site availability and monitoring access. 27

28 SAMPLE FORMS There are a myriad of forms available to manage the POST Partners volunteer program including applications, volunteer waiver and indemnification forms, inspection checklist and rosters, statement of commitment, incident procedures, incident report, vest and trash nabbers check out form, tool lists, brochures as well as form specifically designed for individuals, groups, Eagle and Life Scouts and Colorado Bluebird Project volunteers. Forms for the Eagle Scout and Colorado Bluebird Project can be found within their individual packets. All other sample forms are included in this packet or can be found on-line at then click on Documents and Upcoming Events. Sample forms included in this packet are: Individual application Group Application Waiver and Indemnification Form Inspection Checklist and Roster Statement of Commitment Incident Report Vest and Trash Nabbers Check-out Form Tool Inventory Request Form 28

29 INDIVIDUAL APPLICATION (Beaver and Squirrels level) -SAMPLE Name (first and last) Today s Date: Address: City: State: Home Phone: ( ) - Zip: Work/Cell: ( ) - address: Year of birth: Emergency Contact: Name Phone# Relationship When can we call on you to volunteer for Town of Castle Rock events? Throughout the year Winter Only (Nov Feb) Summer Only (Mar Oct) Other (specify) Morning Afternoon Evening Flexible Physical or Health Restrictions (specify)? Areas of Expertise Personal skills, interest or hobbies Following is a partial list of activities and events for which you may be called upon to volunteer. Please check all of the items for which you are interested in serving or have previous experience. Natural Resources: Displays Brochures Photography Interpretive Program Design Clean-up Weeding Habitat Restoration Colorado Bluebird Project Other: Recreation, Parks and Trails: Trail Building/Repair Crew Trail Host Bicycle Events Special Events Office Work Clean-up Recreational Hikes Other: Have you even been convicted of or plead guilty to a felony? Yes No I certify that the answers contained in this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. My volunteer service is conditional upon completion of the application and may be subject to a criminal background check. I am offering my services as a volunteer and understand that I will not be entitled to any form of compensation for any service I provide. I realize that a separate volunteer waiver and indemnification form will have to be signed and submitted annually for my application for service to be finalized and active. Please fill out this section if you will be working directly with youth participants: We will conduct criminal background checks on all volunteers working with youth participants. Social Security #: Date of birth: Previous states of residence: Driver s license: 29

30 GROUP APPLCIATION (Bear, Elk, Owl and Coyote Levels) - SAMPLE Today s date: Proposed adoption location: Adopter name: Type of organization: Business Church Community Group School Group Service Group Scout Group Club Other Level of commitment interested in (Please see reverse side for descriptions): Contact person: Mailing address: Bear Elk Coyote Beaver (Complete Individual Volunteer Application) Owl Squirrel (Complete Individual Volunteer Application) Donation Other Phone: Web site address: Estimated number of participants: Adults Youth (18 and under) Total membership count: What do you or your organization hope to gain from this experience? Type(s) of projects you would like to accomplish: STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT I have read and agree to abide by the policies, regulations and safety recommendations as put forth by the Town of Castle Rock (for myself or as the representative of the above listed group) in regard to the POST Partners program. I understand that this is an application for the POST Partners program and that a Parks and Recreation representative will contact me to finalize an agreement. In addition, I understand that the Parks and Recreation Director will make the final determination as to whether a group can participate and make the final park assignment. 30

31 VOLUNTEER WAIVER AND INDEMNIFICATION FORM - SAMPLE Participant Name: Site Location: Organization Group: Today s Date: RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT: PARTICIPANT MUST READ EACH SECTION CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING In consideration for being permitted to perform the below-described volunteer activities for the Town of Castle Rock (Town), I hereby acknowledge, represent, and agree as follows: A. I understand that said activities are or may be dangerous and do or may involve risks of injury, loss, or damage. I further acknowledge that such risks may include but not be limited to bodily injury, personal injury, sickness, disease, death, and property loss or damage. I acknowledge that such risks may arise from a variety of foreseeable and unforeseeable circumstances connected with the use of the activities; including but not limited to the following risks: Possible cuts and scrapes on hands if left unprotected. Activities to be performed: B. By signing this RELEASE AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT, I hereby expressly assume all such risks of injury, loss, or damage to me or to any third party arising out of or in any way related to the above-described activities, whether or not caused by the act, omission, negligence, or other fault of the Town, its officers, its employees, or by any other cause. C. By signing this RELEASE AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT, I further hereby waive, and exempt, release, and discharge the Town, its officers, and its employees from, any and all claims, demands, and actions for such injury, loss, or damage, arising out of or in any way related to the above-described activities, whether or not caused by the act, omission, negligence, or other fault of the Town, its officers, its employees, or by any other cause, excepting only the willful and wanton conduct of the Town s officers or employees. D. I further agree to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the Town, its officers, employees, insurers, and self-insurance pool, from and against all liability, claims, and demands, including any third party claim asserted against the Town, its officers, employees, insurers, or self-insurance pool, on account of injury, loss, or damage, including without limitation claims arising from bodily injury, personal injury, sickness, disease, death, property loss or damage, or any other loss of any kind whatsoever, which arise out of or are in any way related to the above-described activities, whether or not caused by my act, omission, negligence, or other fault, or by the act, omission, negligence, or other fault of the Town, its officers, its employees, or by any other cause, excepting only the willful and wanton conduct of the Town s officers or employees. E. By signing this RELEASE AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT, I hereby acknowledge and agree that said AGREEMENT extends to all acts, omissions, negligence, or other fault of the Town, its officers, and/or its employees, and that said AGREEMENT is intended to be as broad and inclusive as is permitted by the laws of the State of Colorado. If any portion hereof is held invalid, it is further agreed that the balance shall, notwithstanding, continue in full legal force and effect. F. I understand and acknowledge that the Town, its officers, and its employees are relying on, and do not waive or intend to waive by any provision of this RELEASE AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT, the monetary limitations (presently $150,000 per person and $600,000 per occurrence) or any other rights, immunities, and protections provided by the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act, C.R.S et seq., as amended, or otherwise available to the Town, its officers, or its employees. G. I understand and agree that the laws of the State of Colorado shall govern this RELEASE AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT, and that jurisdiction and venue for any suit or cause of action under this Agreement shall lie in the courts of Douglas County, Colorado. I HAVE READ and UNDERSTAND EACH SECTION ABOVE: (Participant initials here) (If Participant is under 18 year s old, Parent initial here) 31

32 This RELEASE AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT shall be effective as of the date set forth below and shall be binding upon me, my successors, representatives, heirs, executors, assigns, and transferees. II. PARTICIPANT SIGNATURE AND DATE: Participant - Print Name: Participants Signature: Date of Signature: Age: III. IF PARTICIPANT IS UNDER 18 YEARS OLD, PARENT SIGNATURE AND DATE: A. By initialing above and signing below, I acknowledge that I am the parent of the above-named Participant as the term parent is defined in C.R.S. Section (2) (b), and I hereby waive and release any prospective claim of the Participant against the Town, its officers, and its employees for negligence, to the extent provided in C.R.S. Section (3), in connection with the above-described activities. If signing for other family members, please print their names and year of birth below: B. I hereby grant the Town of Castle Rock and the Parks and Recreation Department the right and license to use my and my child s name, image, likeness and comments in Castle Rock materials for internal and external audiences. These materials include, but are not limited to, advertisements, brochures, news releases, magazines, newspapers, newsletters, videos and websites. YES, the Town is authorized to use my/my child s name/image. NO, the Town is not authorized to use my/my child s name/image. Parent - Print Name: Parent s Signature: Date of Signature: Mailing Address: Address: Phone: No, please do not contact me regarding parks, open space and trail news and volunteer events. Please Note: Although the Town of Castle Rock has partnered with the Volunteers of America to secure minimal insurance coverage for all our volunteers, it is our sincere hope that you donate or give up any claim you may acquire during your volunteer service so that we may keep insurance costs to a minimum. It is our recommendation that you consult with your insurance agent to be sure that your personal insurance coverage is sufficient to cover you for any volunteer services you perform. 32

33 INSPECTION CHECKLIST AND ROSTER FORM Volunteer Program Packet (This form should be completed each time a group returns from maintaining a park, open space or trail and turned in no later than the 30th of each month.) Group: Cleanup Date: Park/Open Space/Trail Location: Group Leader: Day Phone: Number of Volunteers (Include Adults and Youth): Total Time Worked: Number of bags collected of trash and/or weeds: What activities did you accomplish during your visit (litter pick-up quantity, inspection of facilities, etc.)? What is the general condition of the adopted area? List any items of particular concern that require immediate maintenance attention, i. e. Excessive erosion of trail, broken sprinkler heads, etc. (specify location): Have waivers been submitted for all volunteers? (Note: one waiver per volunteer per calendar year). Yes No RETURN CHECKLIST TO: Volunteer Coordinator Town of Castle Rock Parks and Recreation Department 2301 N. Woodlands Blvd. Castle Rock, CO (303) Phone/ Fax lsorbo@crgov.com /postpartners@crgov.com 33

34 POST PARTNERS VOLUNTEER PROGRAM PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT AUDIT ROSTER Group Name: Work Date (Today s Date): Description of Duties: Participant s Name Waiver Received Community Service Credit (for SQUIRRELS only) YES or NO Approximate Number of Hours 34

35 STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT - SAMPLE Volunteer Program Packet POST Partners is cooperative effort between the Town of Castle Rock Parks and Recreation Department and residents, business owners, organizations, etc., who wish to contribute to the appearance of their community. Both parties, therefore, commit to each other to perform certain activities for keeping cleaner and safer parks, open space and trails. It is understood that at no time is the safety of any volunteer to be compromised in the performance of any activity associated with this program. THE GROUP LEADER ON BEHALF OF ON, 2011 AGREES TO, ORGANIZATION The group, both jointly and severally, acknowledges the hazardous nature of the work and agrees to the following terms and conditions: Participants in the group agree to obey and abide by all laws and regulations relating to safety and any special terms and conditions that may be required by the Director of Parks and Recreation for a particular parks, open space and trails. The group shall appoint or select a Group Leader to serve as group spokesperson. The spokesperson may obtain trash bags and trash grabbers from the Parks and Recreation Department during regular business hours. Special arrangements can be made with the Parks and Recreation Department Volunteer Coordinator to borrow tools, gloves and vests as needed. When participants are age 18 or younger, the group shall furnish adequate supervision. The Group Leader will assure that all participants are responsible people. If the group uses a paid contractor, the group assumes all responsibility for payment of services, and a license number and copy of certificate of insurance, naming the Town as additionally insured, must be provided. Groups shall perform seasonal maintenance the minimum number of times each year (April October) as determined by the Parks and Recreation Department and at additional times if requested by the Director of Parks and Recreation. Maintenance shall include, but not limited to, litter pick up, raking leaves, planting and maintaining flowerbeds, mulching, etc. The group will abide by all policies set forth in the POST Partners program as outlined in the provided POST Partners packet. If performing litter pickup, the group shall be responsible for placing litter in trash bags furnished by the Parks and Recreation Department. Unused materials and supplies furnished by the Parks and Recreation Department shall be returned to the Department within one week after each cleanup. The group shall be responsible for prohibiting participants from possessing or consuming alcoholic beverages or drugs while on the adopted section. The Group Leader will discuss safety precautions with participants and assure that the appropriate tools and equipment are used 35

36 during cleanups. Volunteer Program Packet The group shall submit a work plan and/or diagram when requested by the Parks and Recreation Department. The group shall be responsible for maintaining a first-aid kit and ensuring that all participants follow all safety standards. One can be borrowed from the POST Partners volunteer coordinator upon request. The group shall release, relieve, hold harmless and indemnify the Town of Castle Rock and the Parks and Recreation Department, its agents, servants and employees for any and all actions, claims, injuries or lawsuits arising out of or in any way connected to the activities connected with the POST Partners program. The group shall report to the Parks and Recreation Department any injury incurred by any participant during cleanup activities and any hazard encountered at the adopted site. See additional instructions on incident procedures, incident checklist and incident report. Training will be provided to the Group Leader by the POST Partners Volunteer Coordinator, upon request. THE CASTLE ROCK PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT AGREES TO: Communicate with the volunteer Group Leader via a Town liaison regarding the performance of their regular duties and special workdays. Coordinate and assist as needed in the completion of optional special projects. Supply trash bags, trash grabbers, & poop scoopers, if necessary and requested. Arrange for the removal and disposal of any litter, trash, leaves and material collected from the adopted site, including recyclable materials. Supply and install one POST Partners sign with the adopter s name on it when the adopter has satisfactorily performed the duties stated in this agreement. (Only applicable to BEAR groups). Provide Parks, Open Space and Trails Guide/Maps to the Group Leader and, if needed, maps of the adopted location. Participants are encouraged to submit photos taken at their workdays. The photos will be used to promote the group s work and the POST Partners program. Each participant has the option to agree to Photo Release terms on the Volunteer Waiver Indemnification Form (listed under I. on this form). Photos can be placed on a disk and submitted with your monthly paperwork or can be ed to the Volunteer Coordinator at postpartners@crgov.com. Provide POST Partners t-shirts and water bottles upon request. The beginning and end of this agreement will be decided by the mutual consent of both parties. The Town of Castle Rock Parks and Recreation Department can renew the agreement for any period. 36

37 Either the Town or the group may terminate this agreement within 10 days by written notification. I have read and will abide by the guidelines outlined in the POST Partners Volunteer Program Packet. I have read and understood this statement of commitment for the POST Partners program, and I agree to the terms of participation. Volunteer Coordinator Volunteer Coordinator-Date Volunteer Group Group Leader Name: Address: Group Leader-Please Print Group Leader-Sign and date Contact Details Alternate Contact Name: Address: Cell Phone: Home Phone: Cell Phone: Home Phone: Best time to call: Best time to call: Town of Castle Rock-POST Partners Volunteer Program Contacts Lisa Sorbo Volunteer Coordinator Phone Fax lsorbo@crgov.com Barbara Spagnuolo Natural Resource Specialist Phone Fax bspagnuolo@crgov.com Parks Maintenance on-call pager number (assistance during your clean-up dates scheduled for the weekends, litter collection, etc.)

38 INCIDENT REPORT- SAMPLE Name of Organization: Name of Group Leader: Name of Injured: Group Leader Phone #: Date of Incident: Time of Incident: Location: Type of Incident: Injury Property Damage Vehicle Accident Fire/Explosion Injury: Body part injured: Describe treatment: First Aid Medical Ambulance called: Yes No Transportation: Police notified: Yes No Treatment facility: Emergency contact information: Yes No Name of person notified: Emergency contact phone: Incident Details: Where & how did incident occur? Causes (tools, vehicles, environment, etc.)? 38

39 Personal Factors (altitude, lack of knowledge, fatigue, etc.)? Volunteer Program Packet Name of injured: Address: City, state, zip: Phone (home): Phone (cell): Witness name: Address: City, state, zip: Phone (home): Phone (cell): Date of birth: Sex: Signatures: Injured Date Group Leader Date Received by (Town employee) Date 39

40 VEST AND TRASH NABBERS CHECK OUT FORM - SAMPLE Volunteer Program Packet Today s Date: Name: Organization Name: Phone: address: The above person/organization has checked out vests and trash nabbers. Returned on (Date) Received by: 40

41 TOOL INEVENTORY REQUEST FORM Volunteer Program Packet Name: Number Needed Photo Number Item Name Available 1 Axe Date Needed: Item Description/Location 1 Broom-Nylon 1 Broom-Push Buckets 5-Gallon, PVC, White 8 Orange Cones-Safety (18 ) Drill-Cordless w/ charger & battery File Flagging tape rolls (pink) Round, ea. 2.5 x case 2 Flags-Marking Pins Garbage bags (heavy duty) Hammer-Engineers (double-headed) Gallon 4 lbs.

42 Number Needed Photo Volunteer Program Packet Number Item Name Item Description/Location Available 2 16 oz. Hammer-regular 2 Hammer-sledge, 2 faced 8 lb. 2 Hoe-Adze 48-3 Vial 3 Level Heavy-Duty 3 1 Loppers-Large (32") Loppers-Medium (22-26") Telescope 2 2 Leatherman multi-tool Mattocks-Cutter Heavy/Large 36 5 Mattocks-Hoe (also called Tiller) Heavy/Large Mattocks-Pick 1 Mattocks-Pick 2.5 lbs. 12 McLeod 4 Handle 42

43 Number Needed Photo Number Item Name Available 1 Pliers- Diagonal w/ cutting edge 6 1 Pliers Groove Joint 8 Item Description/Location (See Wire Cutter also) 1 Pliers-Linesman 6 2 Pliers-Needle Nose (6 ) With wire cutting edge 2 Pliers-Slip Joint 8 or 6 (1 ea.) 1 Post Hole Digger Rock Park Shed 5 Pruners-Hand Ratchet 2 Pulaski 3.75 lbs. 1 ea. Putty Knifes/Scrapers (2", 3, or 6 widths) 2 Rake-Landscape/Field 36 2 Rake-Lawn/Leaf Tines 4 Rake-Standard Hard/Bow 16 Tines 2 Rock Bar 6 ft. 43

44 Number Needed Photo Number Item Name Item Description/Location Available 2 Rubber mallet 16 oz. 4 Saw-Bow (21") 4 Saw-Pruning (folding) 14 2 Shears-Hedge (21 ) 6 Shovel-Flat-nosed 6 Shovel-Gardening 4 Shovel-Spade 1 T-Post Driver Rock Park Shed 1 Tamper-Plate (15-20 lbs.) Service Center 2 Tape Measure 1 x 25 1 Tape Measure 3/8 x Tarp-small (10 x 12 -Heavy Duty-10 oz.) Tan 44

45 Number Needed Photo Number Available Item Name Item Description/Location 1 Tarp- medium/ light wt. (12 x 16 ) Blue Poly 2 Trash cans (light weight) 32 Gallon 1 Utility Garden Cart Heavy Duty Utility Knife-6 1 Utility Scissors 2 Weed Cutter (Triangle frame) 2 Wheelbarrows 6 Cu. Ft. 45