Citizens Park Ranger Academy
Purpose: The Dinosaur Valley State Park Citizen’s Park Ranger Academy was developed to enhance area residents and business members understanding of their local state park. Consider this academy as a gateway to building long-lasting partnership relationships. At the conclusion of this academy, the student should have an in depth understanding and appreciation of Dinosaur Valley State Park, the Texas State Park system, our staff, and Texas State Park’s purpose and mission.
Requirements: Citizen’s Park Ranger Academy (CPRA) students must be 15 years of age or older. If a student is 15-17 years of age they must be enrolled in high school or equivalent. Attending the CPRA is a privilege and students may be asked to leave the park should they become disruptive or unable to follow safety protocol. Students must sign a Texas State Park waiver to participate in CPRA activities. Adult students may not bring their children to the park unless they provide adequate supervision for their child. The park is unable to provide child care for CPRA students. No children are allowed to attend the courses of instruction unless they are properly enrolled as a CPRA student. Students must be physically and mentally prepared to walk, hike, crawl, dig, stand, jump, lift, and other physically demanding tasks as part of the CPRA. Students should immediately inform park staff should they be unable to perform any requested tasks. Students will still be able to participate but may only be able to observe other students and staff.
The academy will be held at Dinosaur Valley State Park from August 17-October 5. Participants will meet every Saturday for the eight weeks. Classes will be 2-3 hours in length. Generally classes will start at 7 a.m. Enrollment is limited.
- Week 1: Welcome & Texas State Parks Mission and Operational Overview, August 17
- Week 2: Search and Rescue Operations, August 24
- Week 3: Dinosaur Valley State Park Field Operations, August 31
- Week 4: Dinosaur Valley Administrative Operations, September 7
- Week 5: Dinosaur Valley Interpretive Programs, September 14
- Week 6: Wildland Fire Fighting Operations, September 21
- Week 7: Law Enforcement Operations (Park Police), September 28
- Week 8: Graduation and Reception, October 5
Persons interesting in enrolling in the academy can obtain an application or additional information by e-mailing Robert Enckhausen, or by calling (254) 897-4588.
