Needed: Nordic ski patrollers

Cross-country skiing has experienced a resurgence the last few years. In record numbers families are using forest preserve and state park trails enjoy time outdoors with the kids. Adults who can't afford downhill lift tickets, equipment and travel expenses, find Nordic skiing a reasonable alternative and a great exercise. People of all ages are participating in citizen racing.

The Midwest has many great Nordic ski areas and racing venues staffed by volunteer Nordic ski patrollers. They are there to make sure you have enjoyable and safe ski outings. Nordic patrollers are enthusiastic about the sport and enjoy interacting with people as they patrol. You can identify a patroller by the National Ski Patrol cross on their back and their friendly, caring attitude.

If you are injured, Nordic ski patrollers are trained to assist you as a first responder. All National Ski Patrol (NSP) members train yearly to obtain certification in Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) and CPR rescue techniques.

Over the last few years, however, Nordic patroller numbers have dwindled for various reasons. Some patrollers have dual classifications in both Alpine and Nordic skiing but find that much of their time is spent at Alpine areas.

"We would like to continue to provide services for the skiing public but we need your help," Norsk Nordic ski patroller Patricia Michals said. "If you have toyed with the idea of being a ski patroller now is the time to act. These are tough economic times for a lot of folks, including some patrollers."

For information on how to join the NSP, go to www.southernregion.org/Join.htm. This site includes basic information and directs visitors to a recruiting page for both Alpine and Nordic patrols. You can select a patrol area, fill in the information and a representative will contact you. For additional information, email Nordic Section Chief Jeff Schmidt at nordjas@aol.com.

The following areas in Wisconsin and Illinois are in particular need of Nordic ski patrollers:

Wisconsin
Grand Geneva Resort, Lake Geneva, Wis.; Patrol representative Russ Nykaza, russell.nykaza@uscellular.com

Illinois
• Glacial Park Nordic, McHenry Conservation Dist., Woodstock, Ill.; Patrol rep. Julie Timmons, julieski2@gmail.com

• Des Plaines River Nordic, Lake Co. Forest Preserves, Libertyville, Ill.; Patrol rep. Sue Fishburn, suejfish@yahoo.com

• Norsk Nordic, Camp Sagawau, Cook Co. Forest Preserves, Lemont, Ill.; Patrol rep. Patricia Michals, PMich1Owl@aol.com