Training and Education
The Loess Hills Nordic Patrol provides difficult-to-find training to ski patrollers and the public:
Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC)
The Loess Hills Nordic Patrol provides a convenient, low-cost training opportunity to get certified in National Ski Patrol’s (NSP) Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC). This is a delayed-help wilderness first responder course. The curriculum is based upon the EMT-B standards. This certification is recognized by the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, the rafting industry, and the Boy Scouts as a higher level of emergency medical training for leading trips and working in the backcountry. (This training is open to the public)
Mountain Travel and Rescue
Mountain Travel and Rescue (MTR) is the National Ski Patrol’s Search and Rescue Training. MTR-1 is a basic level SAR class that focusses on the skills necessary to be a member of a search team. MTR-2 class focusses on the leadership aspects of leading a search team. The MTR clinics and workshops are designed to improve a person’s ability to operate as a member of a search and rescue mission. (Most MTR training is open to public)
Outdoor Skills Classes
Backpacking, navigation with map and compass, winter survival, trail construction, rope and pully systems and of course skiing are a just a few of the classes LHNSP has offered or is offering. Classes are developed as interests of instructors, participants and as needs emerge. (Most of this training is open to public)
Off-Road Vehicle Operations
One of the most hazardous duties performed by LHNSP is the operation of UTVs to evacuate the injured and ill hikers at Hitchcock Nature Center. These evacuations occur on the trails, sometimes at night, and in all types of weather. Patrollers are trained in how to operate and work around the UTV they have adapted specifically for providing aid and evacuation. (This training is not open to public)
Trail Construction and Repair
The Hitchcock Nature Center provides miles of trail on its 1,268 acres for its guests, and the LHNSP does its part to repair, reroute, and reconstruct trails so visitors can take advantage of its globally significant Loess Hills landscape. Protecting its prairies, forests, soil, wildlife, and guests are all an integral part of LHNSP’s mission. The patrol holds trail work events annually as well as trail crew training. (This training is open to the public)
