2025 Global Conservation Force Training Courses

2025 Training Course Lineup

Global Conservation Force (GCF) is excited to announce a series of immersive, hands-on conservation training courses for 2025! Designed to provide participants with critical skills and education, these programs offer a unique opportunity to contribute directly to wildlife protection efforts while experiencing the diverse beauty of South Africa.

While these courses are less strenuous than our rigorous 5-week Intro to Anti-Poaching Bootcamp, they still require a solid commitment to physical activity and outdoor work. Participants should be prepared for long days outside, hiking an average of 5–10 miles, and embracing the challenges of conservation work—including getting a little sweaty and dirty!

Introduction to Snare Patrols

Dates: February 21–27, 2025 | May 27–31, 2025
Instructors: Geoffrey Phipps, Dylan W. (February), Mike Veale (May)

Snares are one of the deadliest threats to wildlife globally, silently capturing and killing countless animals each year. Effective snare patrols involve locating and removing these traps from both inside and outside wildlife reserves. This course will teach participants the skills necessary to identify, document, and remove snares, reducing their devastating impact on local ecosystems.

Participants will gain hands-on experience patrolling active conservation zones, exploring diverse habitats, and contributing directly to ongoing wildlife protection efforts. Each program also includes opportunities to visit local tourist sites, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching experience.

Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC)

Dates: April 9–19, 2025
Instructor: Chris Laursen

Learn life-saving skills in the remote and challenging environments of South Africa’s bush. Led by GCF’s Lead Field Medic, Chris Laursen, this TECC course provides participants with the knowledge and hands-on experience to respond to medical emergencies in the field.

The program covers the fundamentals of Tactical Emergency Casualty Care, scenario-based exercises, and practical techniques for stabilization and emergency evacuation. Perfect for individuals in medical, tactical, or conservation fields, this course is an unparalleled opportunity to gain invaluable skills while working alongside anti-poaching units.

Introduction to Snare Patrols and Tactical Man Tracking

Dates: May 27th–31st, 2025
Instructors: Mike Veale

This combined course introduces participants to two essential field skills: snare patrols and tactical man tracking. In the snare patrol segment, attendees will focus on identifying and removing snares to protect wildlife. The tactical man tracking component teaches participants how to locate and follow a person or quarry by analyzing environmental clues like footprints. Whether for anti-poaching efforts or navigating dangerous game habitats, these skills are foundational for conservation work.

K9 Field Training and Integrated Operations

Dates: August 1st–10th, 2025
Instructors: Wesley Visscher, Mario Haspels, and Mike Veale

Join expert K9 trainers and anti-poaching rangers for this intensive course, designed for handlers, trainers, and rangers working with active K9 units. Participants will engage in real-world scenarios, enhancing operational effectiveness in anti-poaching, counter-trafficking, and wildlife protection roles. Like all GCF programs, this course provides exposure to diverse habitats and local tourist experiences within GCF’s conservation zones.

What to Expect from GCF Training Courses

Our programs prioritize education and skill-building in wildlife conservation. While not as physically demanding as the 5-week Bootcamp, they still require a solid commitment to outdoor work, including hiking, navigating diverse terrains, and enduring the elements. Applicants should come prepared for adventure and hands-on learning, as well as a willingness to get involved in impactful conservation efforts.

Ready to join us in making a difference? Apply today!