Test Day Volunteers
It takes a minimum of 8 individual volunteers on-site and 3 judges (who are also volunteers!) for just ONE person to test a dog.
This doesn’t include the “behind the scenes” volunteers who set up the day before/day of, the test secretary who has been collecting test submissions and fees for months and organizing the running order. It doesn’t include the volunteers transporting and caring for live birds, or the test coordinator who scheduled judges and planned their accommodations, the person submitting permit requests to the DNR, etc. Without every single one of these individuals these tests would not be possible.
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The NCW NAVHDA chapter runs a 2-day double test in June and a 3-day double in August. This means we host TWO tests at a time on the same day. Double the volunteers, double the judges, and double the dogs and handlers in one day. If you've tested at NCW previously or you're planning to test this year or in the future, give back to the folks giving to you - sign up and volunteer for a test!
Summary of Test Day Volunteer Responsibilities​
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Lunch Volunteer: Responsible for preparing the main course for lunch, with expenses reimbursed or accepted as donations.
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Bird Steward: Ensures humane treatment of birds during the test, keeping them fed, watered, and protected from elements to ensure they perform well.
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Field Marshal: Oversees the test day activities, ensuring handlers are prepared and equipment is ready, while maintaining communication with judges and bird planters.
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Assistant Field Marshal: Supports the Field Marshal in all assigned duties.
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Bird Planters: Responsible for properly planting birds in the field, ensuring they are alert and ready when dogs approach, following instructions from judges.
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Duck Handler: Manages the ducks for the Utility duck search, ensuring they are placed downwind and hidden from dogs and handlers.
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Gunners: Handle live ammunition responsibly during the test, ensuring safety and adherence to guidelines.
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Grounds Clean Up: All volunteers are responsible for cleaning up the grounds after the event, ensuring no litter is left behind.
For more details, please review the Test Day Volunteers Instructions and Field Marshal Checklist.
