5 November 2008

Articles for this issue

1. Park Ranger Community of Practice (CoP)
2. Invasive Species
3. SmartBook Improvements
4. Corps Photo Album

Park Ranger Community of Practice (CoP)

PARK RANGERS - Here is your chance! A new CoP was recently launched within the Natural Resources Management Gateway that is devoted to park rangers. The site contains beneficial information for every park ranger, from the new hire to the seasoned veteran. This CoP functions as a "one-stop-shop" for Park Ranger needs within the Gateway.

Right-now your help is needed. We are asking YOU what you think are the 3 most positive and negative aspects of the USACE Park Ranger Program as part of our "3-Up and 3-Down Survey". Once completed, this will help us identify the issues that matter and impact you.

Check out the Park Ranger Gateway - Specific features include:

• Park Ranger Chat - Free flowing discussion forum.
• Park Ranger Smart Book - Be sure to check out your entry. If you are not listed, be sure to add yourself.
• People section to highlight awards and rangers in action
• Career, News, Policy information

Be sure to visit http://corpslakes.usace.army.mil/rangers.cfm

Invasive Species

Invasive species are a serious threat to USACE lands and waters. A species alert online reporting form has been added to the NRM Gateway to improve sharing of information about new invasive species on our projects. To report a new invasive species go to http://corpslakes.usace.army.mil/employees/invasive/alerts/alerts.cfm?Option=Start and complete the online form. Once the alert is complete it will be posted on the Invasive Species pages. The alert provides an avenue to share information about new invasions, impacts and management.

SmartBook Improvements

The SmartBooks have recently been improved. They contain contact information and listings of individuals and teams responsible for various program areas. In order for the system to be useful, it is necessary for individuals to submit, review and correct their contact information and program responsibilities. The SmartBooks are only accessible from an official office (army.mil) computer and are not available to the general public, due to privacy considerations.

Users have been given the ability to edit their full entry: contact information and where applicable, their role as a Project, District, or Division program or national team representative. You can also "add" yourself to the SmartBooks if you are not currently listed.

There are 3 different SmartBooks: