Maine Conservation Corps Offers "Wilderness First Responder" Course Beginning In March.

Maine Conservation Corps is hosting a 9 day (72 hour) Wilderness First Responder Course located at Camp Mechuwana in Winthrop, Maine.  Instruction will be provided by Stonehearth Open Learning Opportunities (SOLO) of Conway, New Hampshire.  Successful participants will receive a nationally recognized Wilderness First Responder certification lasting 3 years.

Class Location

This class will be held in the Commons Room at Camp Mechuwana located in Winthrop, Maine.

Class Schedule

The class will be taught in 2 week-long segments with three days off.  The cost of this class is $500.00 and includes instruction, meals, and lodging for the course. 

Class will consist of 9 days beginning at 9:00 AM on Monday, March 21st and concluding at 5:00 PM on Friday, April 1st, 2016.   

Days off will include Saturday and Sunday, March 26-27th, and Wednesday March 30th, 2016.  MCC can provide housing during days off for an additional fee of $15.00 a night. No food will be provided during days off.

Cost/Reservation/Payment

Contact Kat at Katherine.kelley@maine.gov to reserve your spot.  Availability is limited and participants will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis. To reserve a spot contact Kat no later than March 3rd, 2016. 

Please send a check for the full amount payable to “Maine Conservation Corps” by March 2nd, 2016. Checks should be addressed to:

Maine Conservation Corps
124 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0124

Maine Forestry Service Offers Webinar - Ecology and Identification of Common Northeastern Conifers

Are you interested in learning more about Maine's forests and landscapes?
This interesting webinar, offered by the Maine Forestry Service will help you learn about the many varieties of Common Northeastern Conifers (trees that have cones or cone shaped seed pods).
GREAT information for ecology minded people, people interested in furthering their education on Maine woodlots and woodlands.
Be sure to register early, while space is unlimited, a registration ID is required to participate!!

Wednesday January 20, 2016 at 12:00 pm 

Conifer trees are a common feature of woodlots, forests and landscapes.  The value and qualities of trees are determined in part by the type of tree.  Knowing the principles of tree identification will help owners appreciate the value of trees and the types of benefits those trees might provide. This presentation will cover the core principles of tree identification, including how to use twigs, buds, bark, fruit (cones), growth habit, habitat (and even leaves) for identification.  Knowledge of these principles will help participants learn how to identify a wide range of trees.  Several common trees will be used to illustrate the principles. Presented by Dr. Peter Smallidge, Department of Natural Resources, Cornell University.

SAF CFE credits have been requested or have been approved. 

If you have not previously joined a webinar, you should evaluate your connection with a test meeting here http://www.webex.com/test-meeting.html

If you have trouble registering or connecting please contact Cisco WebEx technical support at 1-866-229-3239 (U.S. and Canada Toll-Free; 24/7). 

Instructions:

1. Read all these instructions.
2. You need a personal registration ID to join this month’s webinar.  There is unlimited space for participants, the ID simply provides you the necessary access code.  Obtain your registration ID via:   https://cornell.webex.com/cornell/onstage/g.php?MTID=e6d63bfb75084a897b3ecebc0d920c792 If prompted for a password, use            C0rne11F0rest      (the word “CornellForest” except the o = zero= 0 and L = the number 1; the numbers are in red font).
3. On the webpage where the above link takes you, look for the option to “register” to receive your “registration id” number.  Note this page also includes the option to download resources related to this webinar (if available).
4. Wait for the email that contains your personal “registration id” number (a couple minutes at most usually).
5. Pasted below is an example of the email you will receive after following the preceding steps.
6. As illustrated in my example below, join the webinar via the “click here” button to open into your default web browser (e.g., Internet Explorer or Firefox).  The “click here” button should open into the webinar, or display a page indicating the webinar is not active.  If the webinar is not active, that means the host isn’t connected and you will need to wait until the host connects.  If the page opens into a rather generic “Cisco WebEx” page then your browser may not be compatible with WebEx and you should copy and paste the full link (see example below, it follows “click here”) into an alternate web browser.  Using an alternate web browser usually solves most connection problems.
7. Test the sound capacity of your computer by accessing a website with sound (e.g., video clip on a news website, Youtube, etc.). 
8. As you enter the webinar, you may be asked to test your media player.  If so, you will need to complete that step.
9. As you enter the webinar, you will be given the option to download software; you can bypass that step and enter the webinar directly.  

Becoming a {Winter} Outdoors Woman, Weekend Skills Course Offered.

 

January 5, 2016 at 10:46 am by Emily MacCabe

There is nothing like a little snow on the ground to get me excited about winter! I love spending time in the outdoors during the colder months of the year.  There is so much to do and so much to learn! Not to mention there are no blackflies…
The Becoming an Outdoors Woman program here in Maine will be holding a Winter Skills Weekend February 26-28, 2016 at Bryant Pond 4-H Camp and Learning Center.
This overnight workshop will provide an opportunity for participants to gain or improve skills in a variety of fun winter related outdoor activities.  The accommodations at Bryant Pond are very comfortable and the instructors we have lined up are fantastic at what they do and they are very excited to share their passion for the Maine outdoors.
The cost to attend is $225 with on-site lodging OR a commuter rate of $150.  Registration includes all meals, equipment and instruction.
The best part is you don’t need to be an expert or have any experience at all to join us! Plus, this is a great opportunity to make some wonderful new “outdoorsy” friends!
Here is the plan:
Friday, February 26: Participants will arrive, check-in and get settled between 4pm and 6pm.  We will have dinner and get to know each other followed by some fun around the fire.
Saturday, February 27: Breakfast at 8am and then off to the first session at 9am.  Don’t worry, there will be plenty of places to warm up and opportunities to drink hot cocoa! Lunch is at noon and then off to a second session at 1pm.  After a break, session 3 kicks off at 3:30pm. Dinner at 6pm followed by some fun evening programming.
Sunday, February 28: Breakfast at 8am then session 4 at 9am.  Lunch will be at noon and then time to pack up and head out with LOTS of great new memories!
Sessions that will be offered include wild game cooking, snowshoeing, ice fishing, archery, shotgun, fly tying, rock climbing, nature photography and snowmobile safety.

Check out some of the photos from the 2013 Winter Skills Weekend and the 2014 Winter Skills Weekend!

For more information, visit: www.mainebow.com.  You can register for the workshop online or print and mail the registration form.  A limited number of scholarships are being offered and the application can be found online.

Contact Brittany Humphrey at brittany.humphrey@maine.gov or (207) 215-0292 with questions.

 

We hope to see you in February at the

BOW Winter Skills Weekend!

NEEDED: Volunteer Safety Instructors with Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

Do you enjoy teaching others and sharing your love for the Maine outdoors? The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is looking for volunteer instructors to assist with the delivery of our safety programs.

 We annually offer safety classes to approximately 10,000 students statewide in the following disciplines:

 

Firearms Safety         Bow Hunter Safety                         Trapping              Crossbow

ATV Safety               Snowmobile Safety                         Watercraft

 

Interested ethical sportsmen or women who have the desire to keep the Maine tradition alive, promote a safe outdoor experience, and deliver a well structured basic safety class with other team members, should apply.  Giving back to the sport that you have a passion for is a major part of being a true, ethical, sportsman or woman. 

 

We have a growing interest from the public in all of the above disciplines, with major growth in Firearms Hunter Safety and Bow Hunter Safety.  The increase in youth and women in these programs over the last few years has been tremendous. 

 

 

 

If you are interested in becoming an instructor, please visit: 

http://www.maine.gov/ifw/education/safety/index.htm#instructor

 

To apply, contact the local Regional Coordinator in your Area. Regional Coordinators are listed on the IFW website at http://www.maine.gov/ifw/education/safety/coordinators.htm 

 

Passionate for outdoor activities and Maine traditions to continue – be part of the team to make it happen!

Department of Labor Offering Workplace Safety Classes in January

12/24/2015 12:44 PM EST

 

 

AUGUSTA-The Maine Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Standards is hosting its no-charge safety courses for employers and employees throughout January.

 

Visit the class registration page or call 1-877-SAFE 345 (1-877-723-3345) to register for any class.

"Federal OSHA fines are increasing next summer, some by up to 80 percent ," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Investing in safety helps everyone. I encourage businesses to connect with SafetyWorks! for one of our no-cost trainings or to schedule an on-site consultation. Keeping up-to-date on workplace safety helps employers provide a safe place for Mainers to work and be prepared in the case of a federal OSHA review."

Courses are held at no charge to employers and their employees in the SafetyWorks! Training Institute at the Maine Department of Labor, 45 Commerce Drive in Augusta.

Mine Safety and Health Administration Refresher: Tuesday, January 19, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) requires all surface mining (ex: stone crushing, gravel pit, etc.) employees to receive eight-hour annual training. This one-day course will cover generic MSHA training. However, site-specific training will also need to be conducted once you return to your respective job sites.

Trenching and Excavating:

Wednesday, January 20, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

You will learn the dangers to employees, soil classifications, OSHA requirements and the types of protective systems to prevent cave-ins. You will also learn what is meant by "competent person".

10-Hour Construction Standards:

Thursday, January 21 to Friday, 22, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
This one-and-a-half-day course gives basic information on several of the OSHA standards for construction (29 CFR 1926). Attendees who complete the course will receive an OSHA 10-hour course completion certificate. Class runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on day one and 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on day two.

Accident Investigation/Injury Analysis:

Tuesday, January 26, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

When work doesn't go as planned, accidents and near-misses happen. Investigating these incidents can prevent similar or even more serious problems from happening. Learn how to conduct a thorough accident/incident investigation and how to use your results to prevent future accidents.

Interested employers can learn more about the courses and register at http://www.safetyworksmaine.com , click "More Classes" from the homepage. Space is limited so reservations are required.

SafetyWorks! is not OSHA and cannot issue fines or citations to private businesses. While SafetyWorks! helps businesses of any size, priority is given to small businesses. The program trains about 8,000 people and consults at nearly 1,000 worksites in Maine each year. Employers interested in learning more about the consulting and training services offered by SafetyWorks! should call 1-877-SAFE 345 (1-877-723-3345) or visit http://www.safetyworksmaine.com .

The Bureau of Labor Standards is Maine's regulatory agency overseeing labor and employment law and workplace safety; it provides both consultation and enforcement services. The division promotes and achieves compliance with labor standards to protect and enhance the welfare of Maine's workforce.

The State of Maine is an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.

Southern Maine Community College to Offer Courses in Wild Game Cooking!!!

 

Southern Maine Community College (SMCC), in partnership with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IFW), bring 3 exciting and delicious courses to the table.  Each will offer a cooking demonstration and tasting with SMCC culinary faculty Geoffrey Boardman and information and educational discussion with IFW experts in the field.

 

Saturdays, 9 am – 12 pm $40 per course

 

Duck, Duck, Goose!  January 23, 2016

Small Game February 27, 2016

Freshwater Catch March 12, 2016

 

To register SMCC Continuing Studies Online Registration or call 207-741-5758.

York County Cooperative Extesnion Service Offers 5 Week Beginner Beekeeping School in Springvale.

Educational Programs - 5-Week Beginner Bee School

 

Participants in this 5-week introductory beekeeping course will learn about

• the honey bee colony;
• constructing hives;
• spring, summer and fall management;
• honey production;
• wintering hives;
• identification and control of brood diseases; and
• parasites and predators.

Through the York County Beekeepers Association, students will also have the opportunity to visit local hives for observation and hands-on experience. Beginner Bee School instructor is Larry Peiffer, Master Beekeeper and former Vice President of the Maine State Beekeepers Association.

Where: Nasson Heritage room, basement level in the Anderson Learning Center, 21 Bradeen Street, Springvale, ME

When:  Wednesdays, 6:00 to 8:30 PM, March 2 – March 30, 2016

Course Fee: $95 – includes beginning beekeeping textbooks, other materials, and a 1-year membership in the York County Beekeepers Association. A reduced fee of $45 applies to one of a pair of students who choose to share the text and materials ($140/pair).
Registration is required by February 26, 2016.

Sponsored by the Maine State Beekeepers Association and University of Maine Cooperative Extension York County.

For more information, contact UMaine Extension in York County at 1.800.287.1535 (in Maine), 207.324.2814 or (TDD) 1.800.287.8957 or e-mail rebecca.gowdy@maine.edu. If you are a person with a disability and need an accommodation to participate in this program, please call Frank Wertheim at 800.287.1535 to discuss your needs. Receiving requests for accommodations at least 7 days before the program provides a reasonable amount of time to meet the request; however, all requests will be considered.

Community Forestry Grants Available Through Project Canopy, the Maine Dept of Agriculture's Community Forestry Program.

 

AUGUSTA, Maine – Project Canopy, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s community forestry program, will award $150,000 in grants to local governments and municipalities, educational institutions and non-profit organizations that support community efforts to develop and maintain long-term community forestry programs. Funded by the U.S. Forest Service, the Project Canopy grants are available in two categories: planning and education grants and tree planting and maintenance grants. The average grants range from $6,000 to $8,000 and require a 50-percent cost-share with cash or in-kind services. Since 2005, Project Canopy has awarded more than $1.5 million in funding for community forestry projects. Project Canopy is a cooperative partnership between the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry’s Bureau of Forestry and GrowSmart Maine. It encourages communities to develop project proposals that support sustainable community forestry management, increase awareness of the benefits of trees and forests, and increase the health and livability of communities through sound tree planting and maintenance. Project Canopy Director Jan Ames Santerre provided recent examples of community projects that can benefit from Project Canopy grants. Projects of note in 2014 include 3 projects in Farmington ($4,000), Kennebunkport ($4,919), and Monmouth ($4,000) for shade tree inventory and management planning for street trees;. and two projects in Fort Kent ($8,000) and Ellsworth ($8,000) that allowed those towns to plant trees in town parks. “In addition to helping communities with general maintenance planning, these grants allow towns to respond to threats from invasive pests such as the emerald ash borer. They can also support community beautification through street tree planting,” said Santerre. The planning and education grants have a maximum award of $10,000, while the planting and maintenance grants have a maximum award of $8,000. To be eligible to apply for a 2015 assistance grant, all applicants must attend a grant workshop before submitting an application. The required grant training will be held Monday, November 9th from 2-4 PM via the web. The workshop will cover such topics as grant writing, project development, sustainable community forestry management and grant administration. Connection details will be sent to those preregistered to attend.  Grant applications are due by 5:00 p.m., Friday, December 4.  To learn more about the Project Canopy Assistance program and to sign up for a grant workshop, contact Project Canopy Director Jan Ames Santerre at (207) 287-4987. More information is available on the web at http://www.projectcanopy.me.

Department of Labor Offering FREE Workplace Safety Classes in November

Department of Labor Offering Workplace Safety Classes in November

10/30/2015 03:00 PM EDT

 

*Space is available for classes in Augusta, Portland, Springvale, Westbrook and Wilton.*

AUGUSTA-The Maine Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Standards is hosting its no-charge safety courses for employers and employees throughout November. Visit the class registration page or call 1-877-SAFE 345 (1-877-723-3345) to register for any class.

"Maine's SafetyWorks! program continues to educate businesses and employees about hazards in the workplace," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "These no-cost classes teach everyone how they can prevent work-related illnesses, injuries, and deaths. I encourage you to visit safetyworksmaine.com to learn more and see their calendar of upcoming classes."

Courses are held at no charge to employers and their employees in the SafetyWorks! Training Institute at the Maine Department of Labor, 45 Commerce Drive in Augusta unless otherwise noted.

**School Laboratory Safety: November 3, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.**

The purpose of the training is to acquaint science teachers with the OSHA Laboratory Safety Standard and provide them with the information they need to develop their Chemical Hygiene Plans. At the end of this program, participants will be able to list the major provisions of the Laboratory Safety Standard, evaluate laboratory facilities, monitor storage areas, complete a Chemical Hygiene Plan for their schools and explain waste disposal options. This class is designed for science teachers only.

**10-Hour Construction Standards: November 5 to 6, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.**

This one-and-a-half-day course gives basic information on several of the OSHA standards for construction (29 CFR 1926). Attendees who complete the course will receive an OSHA 10-hour course completion certificate. Class runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on day one and 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on day two.

**Public Sector Work Zone Safety: November 10, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.**

Public agencies that work on public roads must follow the traffic control standard of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). This hands-on half-day workshop covers the MUTCD standards and use of cones, signs, flags and paddles.

**Forklift Operator Safety: November 16, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.**

This class is designed for new operators. The instruction will involve classroom and hands-on training. Training will include performing a forklift inspection and use of the department's "new forklift simulator". This training does not meet the requirements to qualify the participant to be a "qualified operator ". Only the employer can provide such certification.

**A Practical Approach to NFPA 70E (National Fire Protection Association): November 17, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.**

In this class, you will learn how to protect workers from electrical hazards. NFPA 70E requirements will be discussed in layman's terms.

**Welding/Compressed Gases: November 19, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.**

This class will include storage and proper use of compressed gas. Proper inspection techniques of hoses, torches and regulators will be demonstrated.

**Laws Governing Workplace Rights**

- November 3, 9 a.m. to noon, Oxford Hills Chamber of Commerce, 4 Western Ave., South Paris - November 5, 9 a.m. to noon, Lincoln Town Office, 63 Main Street - November 5, 9 a.m. to noon, York County CareerCenter, 9 Bodwell Ct, Springvale - November 12, 9 a.m. to noon, Greater Portland CareerCenter, 151 Jetport Blvd., Portland - November 17, 9 a.m. to noon, Rockland CareerCenter, 91 Camden St., #201

This course is designed for human resource or benefits professionals, accountants, business owners, managers, or payroll supervisors. Labor laws can be complex. This seminar covers wage and hour laws, including minimum wage, overtime, youth employment, severance pay, equal pay, leave requirements (family medical leave, family sick leave, and domestic violence) and break requirements. Also, addresses commonly asked labor related questions.

Interested employers can learn more about the courses and register at http://www.safetyworksmaine.com , click "More Classes" from the homepage. Space is limited so reservations are required.

SafetyWorks! is not OSHA and cannot issue fines or citations to private businesses. While SafetyWorks! helps businesses of any size, priority is given to small businesses. The program trains about 8,000 people and consults at nearly 1,000 worksites in Maine each year. Employers interested in learning more about the consulting and training services offered by SafetyWorks! should call 1-877-SAFE 345 (1-877-723-3345) or visit http://www.safetyworksmaine.com .

The Bureau of Labor Standards is Maine's regulatory agency overseeing labor and employment law and workplace safety; it provides both consultation and enforcement services. The division promotes and achieves compliance with labor standards to protect and enhance the welfare of Maine's workforce.

The State of Maine is an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.

Maine Conservation Corps Announces Environmental Steward Positions for January 2016!

Environmental Steward Positions for January 2016!

 

 

 

The Maine Conservation Corps (MCC) is accepting applications for AmeriCorps Environmental Steward positions located throughout Maine for January 2016. MCC is dedicated to environmental education, outdoor recreation and conservation projects, volunteer opportunities, and developing career and leadership skills. 

 Environmental Stewards undergo two weeks of training with MCC before being paired with a Host Site (individuals know what site they will be with before their start date) for the remainder of their term. MCC will post a full list of Host Sites on our website mid-November, but 2016 sites include: Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, Maine Department of Environmental Protection, Kennebec Estuary Land Trust, and High Peaks Alliance.

 MCC’s Environmental Steward assist agencies with a wide variety of projects: water quality, wildlife protection, trail improvements, and volunteer recruitment are all examples of the projects that Environmental Stewards may be involved in. 

Application Deadline: November 9, 2015

(MCC Member Application)

Start/End Date: January 11- November 18, 2016

---

Attitude: Ability to work and get along with others. Non-judgmental attitude and sensitivity to others. Positive approach to creative solutions. Have the desire to learn, serve others, and make a difference. Reliability and responsibility. Motivation and initiative Essential Functions: High School diploma or equivalent Must be at least 18 years old Must be a US Citizen Must agree to criminal and sex offender background checks Eligibility for AmeriCorps and ability to complete term of service All state positions require a valid driver’s license with a good 5 year driving record  Passion for community service and the environment. Skill requirements:  Communication skills, including comfort with public speaking. Organizational skills. Experience conducting outreach and giving presentations. Good computer skills. Program-specific duties Vary by site; refer to position descriptions on MCC website. Training and responsibilities Participate in AmeriCorps training and events as required and requested by the Maine Commission for Community Service and the MCC. Participate in community service activities. Participate in orientation training and two week initial training with MCC Work schedule: 40 hour work week, typically Monday-Friday, with occasional weekends and overnights, depending on Host Site Preferences. Benefits: Environmental Stewards are 1700 hour AmeriCorps members who will receive a weekly living stipend of $300.00 for 45 weeks. Other benefits include health insurance, a wide range of training and networking opportunities, a Maine State Park Pass, and an education award of $ 5,730.00. Some members may also be eligible for student load deferment and childcare reimbursement. A small number of Host Sites also offer housing as part of their position.

For information on the application process contact

Jasmine Greenman
Maine Conservation Corps
124 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
(207) 624-6085 or 1-800-245-5627 (Toll Free in Maine)
corps.conservation@maine.gov

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Offers Course in Field Dressing, Butchering and Cooking Harvested Deer with Maine Warden Rick LaFlamme.

Heading into the Maine woods to hunt for deer this fall?

 

The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is partnering with Southern Maine Community College to offer a one-day workshop instructed by Warden Corporal Rick LaFlamme and Regional Wildlife Biologist Scott Lindsay.  Participants will have the opportunity to learn how to properly field dress and butcher a harvested deer as well as cooking methods for preparing venison.
The workshop is scheduled for Saturday, September 19 from 9am - 12pm at the SMCC campus in South Portland.  The cost to attend is $40.

For more information, visit http://www.smccme.edu/business-a-community/continuing-studies.html

Department of Labor Offering NO CHARGE Workplace Safety Classes in September

 

08/28/2015 11:05 AM EDT

*Space is available for classes in Augusta, Bangor, Brunswick, Ellsworth, Presque Isle, Springvale and Wilton.*

AUGUSTA-The Maine Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Standards is hosting its no-charge safety courses for employers and employees throughout September. Visit the class registration page or call 1-877-SAFE 345 (1-877-723-3345) to register for any class.

"Safety in the workplace is everybody's business," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Our SafetyWorks! program educates employers and staff alike on the hazards in the workplace, the importance of safety and how to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses. Visit safetyworksmaine.com to learn more and view upcoming classes."

Courses are held at no charge to employers and their employees. Courses are held at the SafetyWorks! Training Institute at the Maine Department of Labor, 45 Commerce Drive in Augusta unless otherwise noted.

Accident Investigation / Injury Analysis: September 1, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

When work doesn't go as planned, accidents and near-misses happen. Investigating these incidents can prevent similar or even more serious problems from happening. Learn how to conduct a thorough accident/incident investigation and how to use your results to prevent future accidents.

10-Hour Construction Standards: September 10 and 11, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Presque Isle CareerCenter, 66 Spruce St, Presque Isle

This one-and-a-half day course gives basic information on several of the OSHA standards for construction (29 CFR 1926). Attendees who complete the course will receive an OSHA 10-hour course completion certificate. Class runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on day one and from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on day two.

30-Hour Construction Standards: September 14 through 18, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

This five-day course introduces attendees new to construction safety and health to the OSHA standards (29 CFR 1926). Attendees who complete all five days will receive OSHA 30-hour construction course certificates.

Forklift Operator Training: September 21, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

This class is designed for new operators. The instruction will involve classroom and hands-on training. Training will include performing a forklift inspection and use of the department's "new forklift simulator." This training does not meet the requirements to qualify the participant to be a "qualified operator." Only the employer can provide such certification.

10-Hour General Industry Standards: September 24 and 25, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The one-and-a-half-day course offers basic information on a variety of general industry safety and health standards (29 CFR 1910). Attendees who complete the course will receive an OSHA 10-hour course completion certificate. Class runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on day one and 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on day two.

OSHA Recordkeeping: September 24, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Bangor CareerCenter, 45 Oak Street, Suite 3, Bangor

This class provides thorough and comprehensive six-hour training for both new and experienced safety and human resources personnel. You will learn the OSHA rule (29 CFR 1904) regarding recording and reporting work-related injuries and illnesses as it applies to your organization. This class includes several hands-on activities on how to correctly fill out the required injury reporting forms. This class will include updates to the OSHA Recordkeeping Standard (29 CFR 1904), which went into effect January 1, 2015.

Laws Governing Workplace Rights

- September 22, 9 a.m. to noon, Ellsworth, Ellsworth Town Hall, 1 City Hall Avenue - September 22, 9 a.m. to noon, Springvale CareerCenter, 9 Bodwell Court - September 23, 9 a.m. to noon, Presque Isle CareerCenter, 66 Spruce Street, Suite 1 - September 23, 9 a.m. to noon, Southern Midcoast CareerCenter, 275 Bath Road, Brunswick - September 30, 9 a.m. to noon, Southern Midcoast CareerCenter, 275 Bath Road, Brunswick - September 30, 9 a.m. to noon, Wilton CareerCenter, 865 US Route 2E

This course is designed for human resource or benefits professionals, accountants, business owners, managers, or payroll supervisors. Labor laws can be complex. This seminar covers wage and hour laws, including minimum wage, overtime, youth employment, severance pay, equal pay, leave requirements (family medical leave, family sick leave, and domestic violence) and break requirements. Also, addresses commonly asked labor related questions.

Interested employers can learn more about the courses and register at http://www.safetyworksmaine.com , click "More Classes" from the homepage. Space is limited so reservations are required.

SafetyWorks! is not OSHA and cannot issue fines or citations to private businesses.

While SafetyWorks! helps businesses of any size, priority is given to small businesses. The program trains about 8,000 people and consults at nearly 1,000 worksites in Maine each year. Employers interested in learning more about the consulting and training services offered by SafetyWorks! should call 1-877-SAFE 345 (1-877-723-3345) or visit http://www.safetyworksmaine.com .

The Bureau of Labor Standards is Maine's regulatory agency overseeing labor and employment law and workplace safety; it provides both consultation and enforcement services. The division promotes and achieves compliance with labor standards to protect and enhance the welfare of Maine's workforce.

The State of Maine is an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.

Register for the 2015 BOW Intro Skills Weekend!‏ From the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

Hello-

Just a quick note to let you know that registration materials for the 2015 Becoming an Outdoors Woman Introductory Skills Weekend are now available!

The workshop is scheduled for October 9-11,2015 at the UMaine 4-H Camp & Learning Center at Bryant Pond.
Here is a direct link to the online registration materials: http://umaine.edu/bryantpond/introductory-skills-weekend/
This workshop is designed to provide opportunity for women who are 18 or older to gain or improve skills in hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation in a safe and comfortable environment.  We are so pleased to be partnered with the folks at Bryant Pond and hope to see you in October!
If you would like a copy of the registration materials mailed to you, or if you have any questions, please feel free to email me brittany.humphrey@maine.gov or call (207) 215-0292.

Sincerely,
Britt Humphrey, BOW Coordinator

Career Driven?? Why Not a Career in Helicopter Technology? NEW at Great Bay Community College, Rochester.

GREAT BAY COMMUNITY COLLEGE ROCHESTER

Now Offering

CAREERS in HELICOPTER TECHNOLOGY

 

 

 

Brand new this year @ Great Bay: Helicopter Technology.

Interested??
CHECK THEM OUT HERE:

 

http://greatbay.edu/courses/degree-programs/aviation-technology-helicopter-associate-in-science?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=FacebookPage&utm_content=DegreeProgram&utm_campaign=AviationTechnology

Water and Wastewater Management Course to Begin November 7.

Water and Waste Water Management Candidate School to Begin 7th Year in November

Management Candidate School (MCS), a 12-month program designed to train the next generation of Water & Wastewater managers and supervisors will begin its 7th year in November, 2015.  The program is offered by NEIWPCC-JETCC, Maine DEP and DHHS, MEWEA and MWUA to provide intensive training, networking and skill-development coursework to those providing the critical work of managing the state's water and wastewater treatment infrastructure. This exciting training program is aimed at mid-level operators with management potential.

Following a model established by Rhode Island, NEIWPCC-JETCC's Board of Directors and the MEWEA Executive Committee spearheaded the effort to launch the first Maine MCS in 2009. The year-long program includes management courses, technical courses (i.e. blue-print reading, construction planning), personnel management, media relations, dealing with regulatory agencies, and budget preparation.  Participants earn more than 70 training contact hours and will be able to count the training for two renewal cycles.

The next MCS is scheduled to begin November 18 and run the 3rd Wednesday of every month (excluding holidays). The location is the Greater Augusta Utility District (GAUD) in Augusta.

If you are interested in finding out more about MCS, please contact Leeann or Spring at (207) 253-8020, or email info@neiwpcc-jetcc.org

FREE Mortocycle Safety Courses to be Offered Through Federal Grant Money

Motorcyclists to benefit from federal grant for Experienced Rider course

08/12/2015 07:30 AM EDT

AUGUSTA - Next weekend, motorcyclists throughout the state will be improving their riding skills - for free - thanks to a federal grant administered through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

The federal 2015 Motorcycle Experienced Rider Training Course Sponsorship provides $20,000 for rider education link to list here http://www.maine.gov/sos/news/2015/motorcycleridercourse.html . Using this funding, nine rider education schools are offering scholarships for the Experienced Rider Education Course at 12 different locations during the weekend of Aug. 22-23.

 

***added by Lebanon Maine Truth Seekers*** The only one of these courses being offered in York County is being offered by Lore Motorcycle Education and will be held at the Biddeford Ice Arena, 14 Pomerleau St., Biddeford, ME.......The phone number given as a contact is: 207-391-0094 ***

The Experienced Rider Education Course is for licensed riders who have their own motorcycle and want to improve their skills, to be safer and more confident on the road. It features nine different exercises, including collision avoidance, slow speed maneuvering, maximum braking and cornering exercises.

"Even those who have been riding for years will learn new skills in this course and gain a higher level of confidence with operating their motorcycle," said Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap. "With the growing prevalence of distracted driving, it's become increasingly important for motorcyclists to improve their collision-avoidance skills, and there's no better way to hone those skills than on the range with professionally trained RiderCoaches."

John Kohler, Motorcycle Safety Program coordinator for the BMV, said the scholarship spots are filling up quickly - and that's good news for improving motorcyclist safety.

"Many people involved in fatal motorcycle crashes have not had any formal training, so they are less prepared to swerve or to brake without skidding when a situation arises," said Kohler.

As a condition of the grant, the BMV must contribute $5,000 of in-kind funding, which Kohler is providing by painting motorcycle courses and providing safety instruction.

For more information about the Experienced Rider Education Course, as well as introductory motorcycle safety courses, visit http://msf-usa.org/. To find a motorcycle education school near you, visit http://www.maine.gov/sos/bmv/licenses/.

FREE courses on Employment Law Offered to Employers This Fall by Maine Department of Labor

No-Cost Courses on Employment Law for Employers Offered This Fall

08/13/2015 05:26 PM EDT

 *Sessions in Springvale, Ellsworth, Presque Isle, Brunswick, Wilton, South Paris, Lincoln, Portland and Rockland*

AUGUSTA-The Maine Department of Labor will offer sessions of its free course that educates employers and the public about regulations governing the workplace. The Laws Governing Workplace Rights classes are taught by staff of the Wage and Hour Division of the Bureau of Labor Standards.

"We have had strong business interest in these no-cost classes," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Understanding the law prevents businesses from making costly mistakes while benefitting workers. The class helps Maine's employers save time, money and aggravation when complying with state regulations."

The course will be held on the following dates at the locations listed below. Although the courses are free, registration is required because seating is limited. - York County CareerCenter, 9 Bodwell Court, Springvale: September 22 and November 5, 9 a.m. to noon - Ellsworth Town Hall, 1 City Hall Avenue, Ellsworth: September 22, 9 a.m. to noon - Southern Midcoast CareerCenter 275 Bath Road, Brunswick: September 23, 9 a.m. to noon - Presque Isle CareerCenter, 66 Spruce Street, Suite 1, Presque Isle: September 23, 9 a.m. to noon - Wilton CareerCenter, 865 US Route 2E, Wilton: September 30, 9 a.m. to noon - Oxford Hills Chamber of Commerce, 4 Western Avenue, South Paris: November 3, 9 a.m. to noon - Lincoln Town Office, 63 Main Street, Lincoln: November 5, 9 a.m. to noon - Greater Portland CareerCenter, 151 Jetport Boulevard, Portland: November 12, 9 a.m. to noon - Rockland CareerCenter, 91 Camden Street, Rockland: November 17, 9 a.m. to noon

This course covers wage and hour laws including minimum wage, overtime, youth employment, severance pay, equal pay, leave requirements (family medical leave, family sick leave and domestic violence) and break requirements. It addresses commonly asked employment-related questions, covers the Americans with Disabilities Act and offers participants an opportunity to ask questions. The course also includes a discussion of employer services offered by the CareerCenters.

Commissioner of Labor Jeanne Paquette said, "The department wants to help Maine employers by giving them the answers before we give them the test. This course is designed for small business owners or staff members who handle human resources and payroll functions. This is about education, not investigation."

To register, call the Maine Department of Labor at (207) 623-7900 or visit http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/index.php?topic=Safetyworks_Classes&v=ListAll . Space is limited so reservations are required.

The Wage and Hour Division is Maine's regulatory agency overseeing labor and employment law; it provides both consultation and enforcement services. The division promotes and achieves compliance with labor standards to protect and enhance the welfare of Maine's workforce.

SAFETY WORKS!! Maine Department of Labor Offers Workplace Safety Classes Throughout July. Space Still Available in Springvale!

Department of Labor Offering Workplace Safety Classes in July

Class registration or 1-877-SAFE 345 (1-877-723-3345) Space is available for classes in Augusta, Springvale and Wilton. AUGUSTA—The Maine Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Standards is hosting its no-charge safety courses for employers and employees throughout July. Visit the class registration page or call 1-877-SAFE 345 (1-877-723-3345) to register for any class. “Creating a safe workplace is an important part of a successful business,” said Governor Paul R. LePage. “SafetyWorks! offers classes that teach people how to work more safely. A strong track record of safety not only helps employees, but keeps workers’ comp and other costs low. Visit safetyworksmaine.com to learn more about how to create a culture of safety in your workplace.” Courses are held at no charge to employers and their employees. Courses are held at the SafetyWorks! Training Institute at the Maine Department of Labor, 45 Commerce Drive in Augusta unless otherwise noted. Automotive Lift/Jack Stand Safety and Compliance: July 6, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This half-day course provides training on the proper operation of multiple types of automotive lifts, jacks and jack stands, inspection, compliance reporting, training, and documentation required by various inspecting agencies. The course will provide the information needed for a safer workplace, which helps eliminate citations and can possibly lower a company’s workers compensation insurance. The course will have both classroom and hands-on training. Life Safety Code 101: July 7, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This class will provide a working overview of National Fire Protection Association Standard 101 Life Safety Code for fire and life safety in the building environment. Topics covered will include classification of occupancy types, adequate means of egress, occupant load factors, and occupancy specific hazards to fire and life safety. The Life Safety Code is adopted in the State of Maine as the state code for fire and life safety in buildings. 10-Hour Construction Standards: July 9 and 10, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This one-and-a-half day course gives basic information on several of the OSHA standards for construction (29 CFR 1926). Attendees who complete the course will receive an OSHA 10-hour course completion certificate. Class runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on day one and from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on day two. Forklift Operator Training: July 13, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This class is designed for new operators. The instruction will involve classroom and hands-on training. Training will include performing a forklift inspection and use of the department’s new forklift simulator. This training does not meet the requirements to qualify participant to be a qualified operator. Only the employer can provide such certification. Fire Extinguisher/Emergency Action Plan: July 15, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. In this class, you will learn about Emergency Action Plans as well as various types of fire extinguishers and how to maintain them. This is a hands-on class. Those attending this class should come prepared to discharge a fire extinguisher. Lifting/Rigging Safety: July 16, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Lift planning is essential to safe lifting practices. This program provides a basic understanding or review of your knowledge about lifting safely in the workplace. Determine what you may need for a lift and what type of equipment to use including communication through signals, written or verbal plans. Bloodborne Pathogens Train-the-Trainer: July 17, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. If your job responsibilities involve occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, this course is for you. This class will instruct you on how the OSHA standard (29 CFR 1920.1030) applies to non-healthcare employers. This training is designed to provide an understanding of bloodborne pathogens, common modes of transmission, methods of prevention, developing an exposure control plan, and required training for employees. Training materials will be provided. Accident Investigation/Injury Analysis: July 20, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Springvale CareerCenter, 9 Bodwell Court When work doesn’t go as planned, accidents and near-misses happen. Investigating these incidents can prevent similar or even more serious problems from happening. Learn how to conduct a thorough accident/incident investigation and how to use your results to prevent future accidents. Scaffolding and Fall Protection: July 21, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In this class, you will learn the types of scaffolding and proper setup while learning how to protect workers from falls and when you must use fall protection. The instructor will explain the OSHA requirements for scaffolding and fall protection, including the definition of competent person. The eight-hour program will include a demonstration of the proper setup of scaffolding. Attendees must wear the appropriate PPE to class. Establishing an Effective Safety Committee: July 23, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. One of the greatest steps to success in injury reduction and prevention is the collaborative involvement of workers, supervisors and managers in the workplace. This class will give you the skills to put a dynamic committee together or strengthen the work of existing teams. It will provide models for hazard assessment, accident review and “near-miss” reporting. It will help you analyze the strengths and weaknesses of your program and give you a game plan for greater success. How to Conduct a Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Assessment: July 24, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This course is designed to assist you in developing a PPE standard and how to organize your PPE needs. Employers must conduct a hazard assessment before requiring employees to use PPE. The assessment provides information needed to select the appropriate PPE for the hazards at the workplace. Learn how to conduct a hazard assessment in this hands-on class. Video Display Terminal Train-the-Trainer: July 30, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Wilton CareerCenter, 865 US Route 2E Maine’s Video Display Terminal (VDT) law requires employers to train VDT operators how to work safely at the computer. This class will prepare trainers, supervisors and safety team members to recognize the hazards VDT operators are exposed to and eliminate them. Interested employers can learn more about the courses and register at http://www.safetyworksmaine.com , click "More Classes" from the homepage. Space is limited so reservations are required. SafetyWorks! is not OSHA and cannot issue fines or citations to private businesses. While SafetyWorks! helps businesses of any size, priority is given to small businesses. The program trains about 8,000 people and consults at nearly 1,000 worksites in Maine each year. Employers interested in learning more about the consulting and training services offered by SafetyWorks! should call 1-877-SAFE 345 (1-877-723-3345) or visit http://www.safetyworksmaine.com . The Bureau of Labor Standards is Maine’s regulatory agency overseeing labor and employment law and workplace safety; it provides both consultation and enforcement services. The division promotes and achieves compliance with labor standards to protect and enhance the welfare of Maine’s workforce. The State of Maine is an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.