Q: Where is the conference being held?

A: The conference will take place at the Black Hills State University-Rapid City, located at 4300 Cheyenne Boulevard, Box Elder, SD 57719.

Q: How far is the conference venue from the airport?

A: It's about 15 minutes by car from the airport to the hotel. See the map to the right!

Q: How can I get from the airport to my hotel? The conference venue?

A: Guests are staying at many different hotels; check with your hotel to find out shuttle options. Visit our Travel page to learn more about ground transportation options, including taxis, ride share, and paid shuttle options.

Q: Where do I go once I get to the conference site?

A: We'll have registration by the North Entrance. View the site floorplan.

Q: Will there be time to sightsee?

A: The Symposium provides an action-packed two days of training and activities. The last event on Friday, March 17, ends at 6pm, and the conference officially ends at 3:00pm on Saturday, March 18. There is an optional evening excursion to see Mount Rushmore on March 18. However, many guests decide to come early or stay after the conference for additional sightseeing.

Q: What is there to do in Rapid City?

A: Get all the info on our Travel page!

Q: Is the Symposium family-friendly? What is there to do in Rapid City for families?

A: Yes! There are a few ways for family members/guests, including adults and kids, can participate in the NVFC Regional Wildland Symposium and enjoy their time in Rapid City:

  • Join as a guest for the Networking Expo on Friday, June 23, from 4:00-6:00pm at the Journey Museum and Learning Center (please note, alcohol will be served) - no charge!
  • Join as a guest for all breaks and meals (includes four breaks and two lunches) for just $29 - visit the Register page for details.
  • Rapid City has museums and activities for people of all ages. Read more on our Travel page.

Q: I have accessibility needs - will I be able to attend the conference?

A: Yes! The NVFC invites attendees to share any accommodations and accessibility needs in our registration process, including visual, audio, mobility, and dietary. The venue includes accessible meeting spaces. We want to make sure everyone is able to join and have a successful conference! If you have any questions, contact us.

Q: Can my service or therapy dog attend?

A: Certified service animals are welcome based on venue restrictions. Therapy dogs are on a case-by-case basis, depending on individual establishment restrictions.

Q: What's included in the registration fee?

A: We recognize the challenges for many volunteers in attending a conference like this. We use grant and sponsor funds wherever possible to minimize the cost to attendees, and provide meals and amenities whenever possible. The registration fee of $129 includes two days of classroom-based training, daily light breakfast, daily morning break, daily lunch, and Friday evening reception with appetizers and drinks.

Q: Is financial assistance available to help me attend the Symposium?

A: The NVFC offered stipends for this event, but the stipend application period is now closed.

Q: I received a stipend, but I can't attend the Symposium anymore. Can I transfer my stipend to another department member?

A: Each stipend recipient is selected by committee review through a nationwide application process. Transfers are not permitted. 

Q: I can't make the Symposium - will there be a way to attend virtually?

While the Symposium will not be offered virtually, select courses will become future webinars and trainings in the NVFC Virtual Classroom.

Q: What other training opportunities does the NVFC provide?

A: The NVFC offers many training opportunities, including:

  • In-person: Conferences and workshops by request
  • Virtual Classroom: On-demand courses 
  • Webinars: Monthly+ live virtual learning opportunities
  • Live Discussions: Panel discussions on key topics in first response

Find out more about all of these options at www.nvfc.org/trainings. 

Q: Can I submit a presentation or speaker proposal?

A: The call for presentations for the 2023 NVFC Regional Wildland Symposium was completed in late 2022, and the agenda is full. Please stay tuned to our website at www.nvfc.org for future speaking opportunities.

Q: If I register but can't go, can I get a refund?

A: Attendee cancellation policy: Registration fees are fully refundable until March 1. From March 2-10, half of the fee will be refunded. No refunds after March 10.