Training

 This free training is recommended but not mandatory. See the 'Presentations and resources' tab for training videos and presentations.

At the training, volunteers:

• Learn about WHEP

• Find out how we determine wetland health

• Learn how to conduct the sampling

• Learn tips and techniques for identification

• Meet other volunteers on your team
• Learn from pros - MPCA biologists, consultants and team leaders

• Introduction to WHEP and Field Methods training includes time in a classroom and outside. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate field clothes. If you have waders, feel free to bring them.
• Macroinvertebrate Identification training is held in a classroom and biology labs at Inver Hills Community College.
• Vegetation Identification training is a hike-type training outside. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate field clothes.
  

Register for training and select a team when you sign up to be a WHEP volunteer on the Dakota County volunteer website (www.dakotacounty.us, search WHEP).

2026: training dates will be selected and posted in early 2026. The dates will likely be the same timeframe as in 2025.

2025:

Introduction to WHEP & Field Methods

Tuesday, May 20, 6- approx. 8:30 p.m. (check in at 5:30 p.m.)

Dakota Lodge, Dakota County Thompson Park, 1200 Stassen Lane, West St. Paul (Driving directions)

Macroinvertebrate Identification

Saturday, June 7, 8:30 a.m.-approx. noon (check in at 8 a.m.)

Heritage Hall Room 203, Inver Hills Community College, 2500 East 80^th St., Inver Grove Heights (campus map)

(Park in South Parking Lot for most direct walk to Heritage Hall.)

Vegetation Identification

Monday, June 30, 5- approx. 8:30 p.m. (check in at 4:30 p.m.)

Empire Lake Picnic Shelter, Whitetail Woods Regional Park (Driving directions)