Description

The Ocala National Forest is seeking OHV (Off Highway Vehicle) volunteers on the Lake George and Seminole Ranger Districts. OHV volunteers serve as an integral part of the recreation and visitor service teams and are often the first contact for information on the Forest. We rely on our hosts to set a positive tone, offer correct and concise information, and maintain a friendly disposition. OHV volunteers will regularly conduct trail maintenance, provide information about rules and regulations and recreation opportunities, and ensure our facilities are the positive face of the forest. Opportunities are available at the following locations:

OHV Center: This facility is not open to the public and requires regular maintenance.

*Lodging is not provided. Volunteer must provide lodging (ie. travel trailer, fifth wheel, motorhome)* 

Duties

• Assist with the operation of the district’s OHV (UTV, ATV and ROKON) recreation areas, trailheads, and trails.
• Conduct OHV trail maintenance (tread raking, trail trimming)
• Perform regular maintenance to OHV trailheads (bathroom sanitation, trash pickup, mowing, pressure washing, etc.)
• Educate the public by clarifying the forests rules and regulations and promoting the responsible use of OHV’s.
• Represent the Ocala National Forest in a professional and courteous manner
• Show a presence of authority and report any major issues to law enforcement and recreation staff.
• Keep recreation staff updated on any issues regarding, campers, campsite facilities, illegal activities or maintenance needs

Trainings

• Volunteers must successfully complete the ROHVA Basic Driver Course provided by certified Forest Service (FS) personnel prior to operating any FS owned OHV.
• Volunteers may also be certified on a variety of other types of equipment (tractors, trail rake, SWECO bulldozer, etc) that are used to maintain the trails.

Skills Required

This position involves physically demanding field work at times and requires that the volunteer work in a variety of weather conditions (extreme hot, cold, rain, etc.).

Volunteers must have a friendly, helpful manner and enjoy dealing with a variety of people. They should have some familiarity with the recreation facilities of the forest and be able to share this basic knowledge with visitors. Good communication skills, tactfulness, and patience are important. The volunteers must abide by the “Standards for Ethics and Conduct” for Forest Service

Knowledge and experience conducting trail maintenance, cleaning facilities, mowing, using heavy equipment and being handy is preferred.