ANPR USNPS Stewards for parks, visitors and each other The Association for All National Park Employees

Vol. 26, No. 4 • Fall 2010

Career Paths for Seasonals in Facility Management RANGER • Fall 2010 u Sec1a Who are those members? ANPR’s award-winning ‘Lost . . . But Found, Safe and Sound’ video Now available on DVD! Designed to show children, ages 4-12, what Board of Directors to do if they become lost in remote areas such as Officers parks or forests. President Scot McElveen, Retired President-elect Stacy Allen, SHIL n n n Secretary Emily Weisner, So. Ariz. Treasurer Bill Schappell, LIHO DVD: $10 for ANPR members, $15 for oth- ers; Video: $7 for members, $12 for others; Board Members also available in CD-ROM PowerPoint pre- Education & Training Rebecca Harriett, HAFE sentation; quantity discounts available; credit Fundraising Activities vacant card payment (Visa/MC) accepted Internal Communications Eric Leonard, CHIC Membership Services Liam Strain, GATE Order online at www.anpr.org/lost.htm Professional Issues Mike Anderson, SERO Seasonal Perspectives Tom Banks, USFS Questions? Special Concerns Amy Gilbert, ARHO Contact ANPR’s business office: Strategic Planning Stacy Allen, SHIL 25958 Genesee Trail Road, PMB 222 Readers have asked for identification of the Golden, CO 80401 • [email protected] Task Groups members pictured on the cover of Ranger International Affairs Tony Sisto, Retired magazine, Summer 2010. Clockwise from the Interested in switching to Retirement Frank Betts, Retired top left are Dylan Mroszczyk-McDonald, electronic version of Ranger? Staff Boston; Rosie White, Redwood; Michelle If you prefer to read Ranger magazine in full Membership Services Teresa Ford Torok, Saguaro; Adam Lucas, Great Smok- color on your computer screen instead of the Ranger Magazine ies; Jin Prugsawan, Arlington House; Bryce paper version, sign up for electronic delivery. Editor Teresa Ford Hummel, Glacier; Albert Faria, Pinnacles; and If enough members sign up for this format, Editorial Adviser Mark Herberger, WASO Emily Weisner, formerly Arlington House, we could reduce the print run and save paper now Southern Arizona Group. Professional Ranger Section and money. Contact [email protected]. Administration Michelle Torok, SAGU Most of them responded last spring to a Interpretation Pete Peterson, GRCA, and call for members’ photos. We welcome an Josh Boles, SAJU image of you, in uniform or not, for our files Protection Kevin Moses, BUFF and future use in ANPR publications. Please Resource Management Sue Consolo Murphy, GRTE e-mail a jpg file, high resolution preferred, to [email protected]. Share your views! Signed letters to the editor of 100 words or ANPR Calendar Affordable health insurance less may be published, space permitting. Please Medical, dental, vision and other coverage include address and daytime phone. Ranger Ranger (Winter issue) options are available through ANPR and reserves the right to edit letters for grammar deadline...... Nov. 15 Aetna. Visit www.anpr.org/insurance.htm or length. Send to [email protected] or Editor, for more details. Help spread the word about 25958 Genesee Trail Road, PMB 222, Golden, Ranger Rendezvous XXXIII...... Oct. 31 - this program. CO 80401. Nov. 4, Bend, Oregon

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What could be easier? You probably already shop online, so why not link first through Coming next issue: Ranger Rendezvous the ANPR website, then go to your preferred shopping sites? A portion of your sales Roundup will go back to ANPR. On ANPR’s home page is an iGive link. Sign up as a member (it’s free, no obligation) and then designate ANPR as the beneficiary of your shopping efforts. When you shop at the nearly 700 brand-name online retailers, a percentage automatically goes to ANPR. Many merchants typically donate 2 to 5 percent of the purchase to a designated group, YES! You are welcome to join ANPR even if but some donate as high as 26 percent. In these financially challenging times, every bit you don’t work for the National Park Service. of support to ANPR is greatly appreciated. All friends of the national parks are eligible for Expedia A second partnership program is through , the No. 1 online U.S. and Canadian membership. We even have special student rates travel agency. We have joined as an Affiliate Partner, and if you link to Expedia through and gift memberships. Join today — online at ANPR’s website, a portion of your travel purchases (2 - 5.5 percent) will go to ANPR. www.anpr.org or the form in this issue.

Sec1bt ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers President’s Message NPR has lacked the ability mony2.htm) at a Senate national to consistently “sell” to the parks subcommittee hearing that ANGERThe Journal of the Association of National Park Rangers A widest variety of NPS employees R USNPS was investigating if competitive Vol. 26, No. 4 Fall 2010 that we are an organization that sourcing would be beneficial or Ranger (ISSN 1074-0678) is a quarterly publication of the Association of National Park Rangers, an organization advocates for all NPS employees, detrimental to the National Park created to communicate for, about and with National Park not just those in park ranger System and the National Park Service employees of all discplines; to promote and enhance positions. Over the years we’ve Service. It was also decided that the professions, spirit and mission of National Park Service focused issues of Ranger magazine employees; to support management and the perpetuation I would represent the Association of the National Park Service and the National Park System; on specific disciplines other than of National Park Maintenance and to provide a forum for social enrichment. interpretation or protection, most Employees with the testimony. In so meeting these purposes, the Association provides recently on cultural resources in While ANPR was not the lone education and other training to develop and/or improve the knowledge and skills of parks professionals and those the spring of 2009. organization to speak in opposi- interested in the stewardship of national parks; provides a We also have regular columns tion to this proposed policy, we forum for discussion of common concerns of all employees, in Ranger magazine for adminis- certainly did our share of the and provides information to the public. tration, interpretation, protection communicating to ensure that decision mak- The membership of ANPR is comprised of individuals who are entrusted with and committed to the care, study, and resource management for over a decade. ers knew the thoughts and feelings of NPS explanation and/or protection of those natural, cultural We’d like to have a regular column on main- employees in the field. On that day we were and recreational resources included in the National Park tenance issues and concerns if we could find mainly advocating for NPS employees who System, and persons who support these efforts. ANPR’s official address is 25958 Genesee Trail Road, someone willing to write the column on a are not park rangers by job title. Make no PMB 222, Golden, CO 80401. Members receive Ranger regular basis. This issue ofRanger is focused on mistake that if individuals or organizations as part of their membership dues. Consult the inside back facility management and maintenance career with credibility had not spoken out against cover for membership and subscription information. paths for seasonal employees. this policy, it would have been adopted and Submissions Back to my original point of employees of implemented. If you are an NPS employee in Prospective authors should contact the editor or editorial all disciplines joining ANPR as members. Is a nonpark ranger job title you may today be adviser before submitting articles. Editor, Teresa Ford, there any evidence that ANPR would advocate working for a private contractor with a dollars- 25958 Genesee Trail Road, PMB 222, Golden, CO 80401, (303) 526-1380; [email protected]. Editorial adviser, Mark for your discipline if and when the need arises? and-cents motive rather than the agency and Herberger, (571) 926-1509. I believe there is. its preservation-and-enjoyment motive. In addition to advocating at congressional Maintenance employees encompass the Deadlines committee hearings, with presidential admin- Spring issue...... Jan. 31 largest single discipline of NPS employees in Summer issue...... May 15 istrations and with NPS management over the parks. As a group their experience and expertise Fall issue...... July 31 last 33 years on topics such as training, hous- is heartily welcomed in greater numbers as Winter issue...... Nov. 15 ing, and safety that cut across many NPS job ANPR members. Copyright © 2010. All rights reserved. titles, there is one instance in which ANPR Regardless of your job title, I hope you can Articles and images in this publication are the sole property helped discourage a potential policy shift. If see that ANPR advocates for you and your of ANPR and Ranger magazine, except where otherwise it had been adopted, it would have directly profession. The only way you can make ANPR indicated. Republication in whole or part is not allowed without written permission. impacted many NPS employees in various job even more responsive to the expectations and titles. Those impacts would have come first to desires of employees or potential employees is those employees with jobs in administrative, to involve yourself in the process by becoming Table of Contents fee collection and maintenance disciplines, and an active ANPR member. USNPS Facility Management as a Career...... 2 The Faces of NPS Facility Management...... 3 perhaps later would have spread to resource The Circuitous Path to Facility Management...... 4 management and interpretive jobs. A New Direction ...... 6 That proposed policy shift championed by It All Began at Harpers Ferry...... 7 On the Path to a Permanent Position ...... 9 the executive branch was known as competi- A Maintenance Career Chronicled...... 10 tive sourcing. It meant replacing some NPS Park Partners Bring Youth to Craft of Ages...... 11 employees with private contract employees to Farm Life Fundamental...... 12 From Seasonal to Regional...... 13 perform some or most of the work required Gap Job Leads to Career Path...... 13 for the operation of the National Park System Hopes and Dreams...... 14 if those contract workers could perform the Buffalo Soldiers Return to Fort Davis...... 16 Rangerin’ — A Family Affair...... 18 duties at less cost. Political appointees in the top NPS management positions were given ANPR Actions...... 19 Professional Ranger...... 20 their marching orders to support this policy ANPR Reports...... 23 and not say or imply anything other than sup- IRF Update...... 24 port in their official or unofficial capacities. Ranger Rendezvous XXXIII...... 25 All in the Family...... 26 In 2003 ANPR President Ken Mabery In Print...... 27 asked me to act on his behalf as a witness to Cover art: Miranda Richardson, Blue Ridge Parkway provide testimony (http://www.anpr.org/testi-

RANGER • Fall 2010 u  Facility management as a career

By Tim Harvey sively seek out and accept new responsibilities Washington Office PERSPECTIVE and challenges. In 1986 I transferred to Glen Canyon as resident John F. Ken- their paths. district foreman and, after attending the Facil- nedy once said, “The This isn’t a new concept. Reflecting on my ity Manager Development Program in 1988, Chinese use two brush own career path, I consider myself fortunate to I was promoted to district facility manager. Pstrokes to write the word ‘cri- have been raised in close proximity to one of Within two short years I was selected as the sis.’ One brush stroke stands our nation’s iconic national parks. As a result facility manager at Mount Rushmore. for danger, the other for opportunity. In a of this early exposure, you might say I had a In 1998 I relocated to the Washington crisis, be aware of the danger but recognize natural calling from the day I turned 16 to Office where I served as the team leader for the opportunity.” work for the NPS. the Park Facility Management Division’s asset Though National Park Service facility Having grown up near Yosemite, I began management program. In 2008 I accepted my management may not be on the verge of an my park career 45 years ago bussing dishes at current position as chief of the division. impending crisis, we are aware, if not wary, of a ski area at the park. My father, who worked Norm Turner understood the value in the potentially disastrous effects of attrition as a tour bus operator, encouraged me to take creating a succession plan, and to this day and retirements and the resultant losses of the job. The rest, as they say, is history. I owe him gratitude for sharing his wisdom institutional knowledge. While, arguably, there My first NPS seasonal job at the park was and support; he was an exceptional boss and is no lack of opportunity within the Service, as a firefighter during the summer after high mentor. I spoke with him a few years ago we are now and will continue to be challenged school graduation. I remember that job well; it before he passed away, and I thanked him for by a steady and predictable loss of experienced was in the days before lightweight chain saws. the wealth of knowledge and the abundance and skilled employees. In light of this reality, It was grueling. of experiences that he instilled in me. I asked we are faced with an immediate and ongoing After working a couple of seasons fighting him how I could ever repay him for all that he need to actively attract, recruit, develop and fires, I enlisted in the United States Army. The had done. His reply was simple, but eloquent: retain a diversely and qualitatively superior Army came and went; in 1976 I returned to “You can thank me by doing the same for workforce. civilian life and secured a job as a wastewater someone else.” As many career employees can attest, that treatment plant operator at Yosemite. My boss, With respect to my mentor, I am offering workforce can originate from virtually any- Norm Turner, encouraged me to push my the same encouragement that he provided where, as the NPS is, at its core, a reflection limits and strive for something more. I soon me: the best way to advance your career is to and personification of our history, culture and realized that a boss can make or break your network. Proceed about your daily business identity as Americans. Our employees come career. I was fortunate enough to be blessed with enthusiasm, always accept a challenge from large cities, small towns, rural farmlands, with one who cared more for my personal and and always let your boss know of your desire suburban middle America, coastal villages, professional development than a short-range to grow with the organization. remote mountainous areas and many other business plan. In short, approach your NPS career with regions. Those of us who have found a home in It was through his influence and encourage- two strokes of the brush, lending equal atten- the NPS will invariably agree that the diversity ment that I found myself at the Grand Canyon tion and effort to each and keeping a watchful of our experiences and the experiences of our where I served as the wastewater treatment eye on that point where they converge. Follow successors will ensure the preservation of the plant operator leader. I took advantage of every this advice and you will find success is always knowledge and skills necessary to protect and available opportunity and learned to aggres- within reach and that your contributions will care for our nation’s most treasured assets. live beyond the scope of

This won’t happen absent some level of your career. USNPS insight, careful planning and calculated action. Tim Harvey is the chief of If we are to ensure the future sustainability facility management for the of the NPS, we must provide our employees National Park Service. and potential employees with every available opportunity to expand upon and/or develop skills and foster an environment that encour- ages technical and professional diversity. American YouthWorks We must provide our future managers and mason apprentice Ste- leaders with the tools necessary to individually phen Kittok works to re- direct their careers. We also must provide them pair cracks to the Espada with the latitude to introduce and implement Aqueduct, a national new ideas and concepts that contribute to the historic landmark built in the 1740s to carry irri- overall goals and objectives of the organization gation water over a natu- and instill in them a desire to carry forward a ral creekbed. See related succession plan for those who will follow in article on page 11.

 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers The faces of NPS facility management The Seasonal & the Seasoned, the Green and the Somewhat Gray By Ralph Coury rience “America’s best idea” through 12,250 employment (or even facility maintenance) in Washington Office miles of trails, 8,505 monuments and statues, mind. Once here, though, the diversity of op- eet Miranda Richardson. She’s 27,000 historic structures and 8,500 miles of portunities is one of many benefits available to a full-time permanent WG-7 roadways. Existing facilities must also accom- career NPS employees. The Service is truly an maintenance worker at Blue Ridge modate approximately 272 million visitors, organization where each and every employee is MParkway. She spends much of her days on a 20,000 employees and 154,000 volunteers afforded an opportunity to participate in such tractor, cutting and moving trees in summer each year. a way that their contributions — no matter the and removing snow in winter. Being outdoors Caring for these treasured facilities is also scope — may ultimately influence the future is nothing new for this farm-raised, lifelong a monumental challenge. The Asset Manage- direction of the organization as a whole. resident of Carroll County, Virginia. She ment Program faces a significant gap between NPS facility management employees are started her National Park Service career at available funding and the funding required charged with maintaining “…unimpaired… the parkway in 1988 working with the Youth to meet industry-standard maintenance re- for the enjoyment of future generations” Conservation Corps program. quirements. At the end of fiscal year 2009, the resources under our care. Unlimited op- Meet Matt St. James. He’s a full-time the NPS had documented $9.6 billion in portunities exist for each of us who desire to WG-7/9 preservationist maintenance worker deferred maintenance. Expected future fund- contribute to the protection and preservation at Richmond. He used to build props for ing will continue to fall short of actual needs, of our nation’s most valued treasures. There are a children’s television show on the Disney and current spending can’t keep pace with many ways to begin this journey. Channel, but now fills his days refurbishing deterioration, let alone make improvements While there is no specific model or template, historic windows and fabricating moldings in overall condition. Reducing this deferred a number of options can lead to permanent from scratch. Like Richardson, he started as maintenance deficit can only be realized if employment with the NPS. Some employees, a seasonal worker but was retained and his the existing and future infrastructure is wholly like Denker and others you will read about in position made permanent under the Veterans maintained and operated. this issue, begin as student interns through the Rehabilitation Act. This is where the faces of NPS facility man- Student Temporary Employment Program Meet Mark Denker. He recently accepted a agement come in. To manage this impressive or the Student Career Experience Program. facility manager position at Herbert Hoover. portfolio, the NPS must continue to plan Some participate in the YCC, like Richard- He knew early in life, after 10 summer vacations for, attract and retain talented, dedicated and son, or affiliate with volunteer or cooperating to Voyageurs, that he wanted to be involved hardworking individuals across numerous dis- associations or the NPS Volunteers in Parks in caring for the facilities of the NPS. He first ciplines, trades and professions. In the face of program. Others may test the waters as seasonal experienced the excitement and challenges of these urgent challenges, these NPS employees employees, like Doug Buttery (see page 10), an NPS career as a seasonal laborer on the St. are the ones making a difference. sampling several parks and job types before Croix National Scenic River. Opportunities in facility management settling into a specific career. No matter what Much like flipping through the pages of a abound for those who want to make a dif- the path, it is rewarding and competitive work. treasured yearbook, this issue of Ranger comes ference. Not surprisingly, opportunities are Only the most dedicated and highly qualified to life with these faces and colorful stories of our available nationwide — across all 392 operating candidates can handle the heavy lifting. diverse NPS facility management workforce. units, in the regional and program offices, and The seasonals of today’s NPS are becoming From facility managers and park rangers to at the Washington Office. For individuals who the future leaders and innovators of tomorrow. utility system operators and certified arborists aspire to wear the green and gray, that means Yet managing the career employment of these in training, these are the faces of the seasoned an opportunity to experience an abundant individuals remains a critical undertaking. and the seasonal, the green and the somewhat selection of geographically, culturally and After all, in all the building and preserving of gray —and everything in between. historically diverse worksites, and the freedom facilities that they do on the job, we are also They are career employees, some on the verge and flexibility to pack it up and relocate. building and preserving in these individuals of retirement, and new employees experienc- The value of an NPS career can’t be under- institutional knowledge that is not easy to ing their first “wow, this is my job” moments. estimated, although many current employees replace. They are employees who got their NPS start as didn’t land that first position with career The NPS recognizes the importance of seasonal carpenters and laborers, campground preserving this institutional knowledge and caretakers and interpretive park rangers. What FAST FACTS is actively engaged in countering the real they all have in common is a passion for what Average age of “new” NPS facility impacts of loss — from attrition, but more they do — caretaking of facilities — and the management employee: 45 often from retirement. With nearly 2 million beautiful places where they do it. New hires eligible to retire by 2015: 24% civilian employees, the federal government is Caretaking at the NPS is a monumental the nation’s largest employer, but a substantial job. The agency boasts one of the most inter- Number of national parks touched, in part of this workforce is nearing retirement. connected and unique asset portfolios in the some way, by Facility Manager Leaders As Danny Basch and Brad Shattuck lament in Program (student, graduate, mentor, world, with more than 70,000 constructed their piece (see page 4), in the Southern Four supervisor or curriculum): nearly 50% assets on over 84 million acres. Visitors expe- Corners Group of parks alone, 65 percent of

RANGER • Fall 2010 u  the existing permanent maintenance staff is eligible to retire within four years. The circuitous path Many NPS development programs are help- ing to mitigate these potential losses. Some of to facility management our featured employees in this issue got their start in NPS intern programs, including the Two different career paths lead to same place YCC (Linda Smith and Miranda Richardson), By Danny Basch, Rocky Mountain, and into positions of responsibility, you often are STEP (Joshua Baldwin and Ryan Jones) and Brad Shattuck, Southern Four Corners involved in multiple activities and projects at SCEP (Linda Smith and Mark Denker). Group the same time, whether solicited or not, mental Once in the NPS, the NPS Fundamentals or physical. This process begins slowly at first training helps early career employees under- ome of us know exactly what we want and usually by association, but at some point, stand the mission, history, organization and to be when we grow up. For others, we become the problem-solvers and answer- operations — and how to balance work and a little meandering is more comfort- finders for any and all questions. life and build teams. able.S No matter what our strength, passion This was the case as I transitioned from a The Olmsted Center for Landscape Pres- or fortune (or how directly or indirectly we worker to leader, then supervisor and finally my ervation, another of the NPS programs, helps may have found them), the National Park present position as facility manager. Success is employees interested in cultural landscapes Service is bursting with employees whose not so much about job series, grade and title, preservation achieve specialized skills and certi- stories are varied, colorful and sometimes but rather about becoming the most valuable fications. Ryan Jones is involved in a two-year, unlikely. employee possible. It is about bringing best OCLP arborist training program leading to an For someone interested in a career as an efforts to whatever is asked and, within reason International Society of Arboriculture-certified NPS facility manager, there is no right way and as appropriate, outgrowing our duties and arborist designation (see page 7). or single path to follow, no matter how accepting the next challenge. The nationally recognized Facility Manager straight or curvy the trail. Take the authors, Brad grew up in the Midwest between Leaders Program targets mid-career employees for example. suburban Iowa and an extended family farm who possess the skills and competence to be- We have much in common — both of us in Nebraska. Every weekend he skipped stones, come future facility managers. The program are facility managers in the Intermountain swam in creeks, fished farm ponds and jumped is a highly selective, yearlong learning and Region, graduates of the Facility Manager his bike across cattle tracks emerging along certification program focused on total cost of Leaders Program, and we share a strong fence rows. Perhaps as an outgrowth of his facility ownership and proactive management professional respect that has afforded us fond childhood experiences, the Boy Scouts philosophies. It grew out of the need for im- the pleasure of an equally strong friendship. and several collegiate excursions into NPS proved park facility management and the need Though we consider ourselves peers among jewels like Badlands and Big Bend, he decided to replace growing numbers of facility managers the larger maintenance “community of prac- to become a ranger and sampled several dis- soon eligible for retirement. It also serves as a tice,” the story of how we became employed ciplines as a temporary and permanent NPS mechanism for succession management and as with the NPS, gained permanent status and employee. a catalyst for development and retention of a found ourselves in similar positions is one After three seasons as a volunteer for The dedicated and informed workforce. that is unique. It shouldn’t be surprising, Nature Conservancy, a county conservation Nearly 60 percent of all FMLP graduates considering what, where and how we do board and the NPS, he won the lottery with have been promoted to positions as facility business. his first paid seasonal job (especially upon managers or chiefs of maintenance, with 89 I (Danny) was born in suburban Ohio learning that he was one of 700 applicants for percent of all FMLP graduates having received where I cultivated an inate love for the 16 open ranger positions) as an interpretive promotions after completing the program. A outdoors in what would become Cuyahoga park ranger in Mesa Verde. collaborative effort with Indiana University’s Valley. At age 10 my family moved to the area Having served in several diverse roles — in- Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands, around Rocky Mountain. Later, I applied terpreter, range conservationist, trail worker, the program was selected as the 2010 re- for my first seasonal position. When I called management assistant, biological science cipient of the W. Edwards Deming Award for the park to offer my name and express my technician and facility manager — Shattuck demonstrated and quantifiable training and interest in the job, I remember hearing the seized every available opportunity. He doesn’t educational initiatives. sound of paper being shuffled on a desk and consider himself a typical facility manager and These articles in Ranger suggest a variety recall thinking, “Wow, those are applications did not “work his way up” the maintenance of formulas for successful careers in NPS from all the other people that want this job chain of command. However, after completing facility management — and for preserving too!” I had little strength, so perhaps it was the FMLP and having had some supportive institutional knowledge and developing the my youthful passion that tipped fortune my supervisors in Chaco Culture, he eventually next generation of NPS leaders. way. I have been with the NPS ever since. became the chief of maintenance for the South- Let’s hope the future brings with it fewer My experience learning about and main- ern Four Corners Group of parks: Canyon de “going away” arrowheads and more “welcome taining, building and rebuilding the trails in Chelly, Hubbell Trading Post and Navajo. One to the NPS” signs for passionate career em- Rocky Mountain taught me many valuable might say he had in fact become a “jack of ployees who want to care for NPS treasures lessons. The first is obvious but needs stating: many trades,” which is a skill in and of itself. into perpetuity. USNPS one can’t fake trail work. It requires heavy There is no set path or road to facility man- Ralph Coury is the facility management specialist in lifting and, if done right, is often associated agement. It’s more important as dedicated NPS the Washington Office. with a respectable work ethic. As you move employees to create your own opportunities.  t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers Danny Basch (center)

We haven’t just evolved, we are evolving. consider the most significant modernization change, specifically, the rapidly changing Learning throughout life is the cornerstone of to our business practices since the Organic business practices this humanitarian trait. It lays the foundation Act. Newer ways of acquiring, processing Taken together or separately, these traits are for accepting and adapting to change, and a and reporting information, database develop- simply not enough to guarantee success. They shift of focus from me to others is usually in ment, information hierarchies, computer-age do, however, offer a rock-solid foundation for order. This is ideally coupled with a position interpretation, social networking, facilities life- a season’s work or an entire career, no matter that offers an equitable sphere of influence cycle management, environmental manage- how direct or meandering your path may be. and enables us to address attrition and see ment systems, sustainability, accessibility and In any case, we hope the trail you tread is as to the supervision and development of our synergistic partnerships are only a few of the rewarding as it is happy. USNPS most important resource: people. Mentors wide-sweeping and encompassing operational offer a critical and often neglected source of changes and challenges blooming within the experience, insight and information. We are NPS. As we strive to rapidly modernize our not the first to tread down the path and are business practices and processes, the threat of simply remiss if we do not capitalize on their change is real and significant for many. Brad Shattuck wisdom. One could argue that our tales Ninety-four years after the NPS was created, contain the shared and essential our agency stands upon a precipice of unprec- ingredients to success in the NPS, edented rates of staff turnover and operational whether in facility management or changes. In the Southern Four Corners Group any position: alone, 65 percent of the existing permanent 1. the possession of a strong work maintenance staff is eligible to retire within four ethic years. The maintenance division isn’t alone; in 2. the ability to juggle multiple the group, five of seven division chiefs can retire activities and projects in the next three years. Indeed, the group is a 3. continuous learning harbinger of Servicewide demographics and 4. addressing human resource retirement parties yet to come in the not-so- development and attrition distant future. 5. finding and capitalizing on To top it off, the Park Facility Management the gifts of our mentors Division is in the process of deploying what we 6. adapting and dealing with RANGER • Fall 2010 u  2007. Park management opened three subject- to-furlough positions to fill three previously full-time permanent positions. I applied and was accepted as a maintenance mechanic. Gaining this new position meant more than the additional work load; it also meant that my family had access to federal employee benefits. My current responsibilities encompass a broad spectrum from historic restoration projects to routine maintenance. It is second to none to put a roof on a cabin in the middle of the wilderness or restore handrails and bridges at Lake McDonald Lodge and think, “Wow, this is my job.” Additionally, through Glacier’s work order system of routine maintenance, I have gained an aptitude for small challenges. Doing different tasks all day makes interesting work. I believe this to be the beginning of a long and healthy career with the National Park Service. I love my field and I am lucky to have found the direction I want to take. After a year, A New Direction I accepted my current position, which entails By Steve Byrd calling outweighed my fears. I gambled on the responding to after-hour facility and utility Glacier fact that Glacier’s surrounding communities emergencies. This new direction allowed my were growing rapidly, and finding work to cover family to live in park housing. Anyone who t was during the fall of 2004, while work- the other six months would be possible. has been to Glacier knows what a remarkable ing for a large construction company in My first season as a carpenter at Glacier place it is. I feel fortunate that it’s not only my Helena, Montana, I realized that I needed forever changed my direction. That summer children’s backyard but their home. aI career change. I was torn between not giving showed me that it was possible to have a career up the rush of commercial construction, and in the trades without having to compromise Above, Steve and Grace Byrd with their children, in the same breath, not wanting to be a part my inner principles. After working a long day Elyse, 5, Julia, 3, and Liam, 1. Below, Steve on of the seemingly endless sprawl of develop- on a renovation project near Lake McDonald a rooftop at work. ment. I needed to get back to my roots and Ranger Station, I looked out redirect my path. over the deep blue water of Lake Growing up just minutes from Glacier, I McDonald twinkling in the late fell in love with its mountains, lakes, wildlife, afternoon sun and said to myself, lodges and chalets. Even though recreating in “I found it.” Glacier significantly shaped my life, I never Armed with the knowledge that imagined that one day I would work in this I wanted to make this my career, I beautiful place. had another hurdle to cross. With Although I had great success in my con- another baby on the way, I had to struction career, my wife (also raised in the secure a more permanent source of Flathead Valley) and I were anxious to return employment in the off season. Not after our first child was born. During a drive wanting to return to the world of through Glacier on a trip from Helena, I building cookie-cutter houses, I thought how incredible it would be to work started my own construction com- in a place that always meant so much to me. pany, specializing in remodels and As luck would have it, a seasonal carpenter restorations. Shortly afterward, I position opened. obtained the contract to complete- In early April of 2005, I learned that I had ly restore a privately held lodge been selected from the pool of applicants for the inside Glacier’s borders. Working position. I was excited about the opportunity to preserve this historic structure to redirect my career path to restoring and further cemented my belief that I maintaining historic buildings in Glacier, but could have a career in the trades nervous about being able to sustain a growing that focused on preserving one of family on just seasonal employment. I took the a kind historic structures. leap, deciding that my desire to follow my new The stars aligned in May of

 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers It all began at Harpers Ferry By Marsha Wassel Harpers Ferry

Reaching new heights with the NPS yan Jones gets paid to climb trees. That’s Rnot all he does, of course, but he says it’s a great way to make a living. Currently involved in a two-year arborist training program with the Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation in Boston, Massachusetts, Jones said, “There are only six openings every two years, so I was very fortunate to have been selected.” The program addresses hazardous tree assessment and removal, tree biology and identification, felling, pruning, planting and tree climbing. The training encompasses every aspect of tree care standards, with sessions held at national parks across the country. Although some parks may have funding, they may not have adequately trained personnel to complete these types of work. When Jones completes the program he will be an International Society of Arboriculture-certified arborist. Jones hails from Keedysville, Maryland, near Antietam Battlefield, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, Harpers Ferry and the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Many of his childhood vacations were spent visiting national parks, so it’s no wonder he says, “I wanted to work for the National Park Service for as long as I can remember. I’ve always loved the outdoors and consider myself a conservationist. I just knew the NPS was the place for me.” Jones added, “I tried quite a few jobs before getting my foot in the door. I worked in res- taurants and in construction doing carpentry, painting, concrete work and project manage- ment. I filled out a lot of applications and worked on building my skills and résumé, while attending Shepherd University and studying commercial recreation and tourism.” It was while he was in school that Jones ac- cepted a STEP appointment at Harpers Ferry with the grounds, roads and trails crew, where he is currently employed. “I’ve enjoyed many opportunities since I started working with the NPS, but I think the most memorable was the time I hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon,” Jones said. “It was sunset and as I sat alone by the Colorado River, I looked at my surround- ings. I appreciated the solitude, the sounds, the natural beauty. It was amazing. I realized t Ryan Jones

RANGER • Fall 2010 u  I was part of something bigger, and because grounds, roads and trails crew at the park. He of my job I had a role in helping protect these has been moving forward with his NPS career beautiful wild places. I knew then I had the ever since. best job in the world!” Baldwin now is a permanent law enforce- ment ranger at Chattahoochee River and Completing the Mission patrols 48 miles of river and 16 land units oshua Baldwin, now living in Atlanta, totaling approximately 7,500 acres. He earlier Jwas raised in Jefferson, Maryland, where obtained his seasonal law enforcement com- he recalls many fond memories of visiting mission through Southwestern University in national parks throughout the National North Carolina, and is awaiting assignment Capital Region. to the Basic Law Enforcement Training Acad- Linda Smith In May 2002, while attending Shepherd emy at the Federal Law Enforcement Training University in Shep- Center. cation as a defensive driver course instructor herdstown, West Baldwin attributes much of his success to though the National Safety Council and re- Virginia, a friend the people and experiences that he encountered ceived his motorboat operator’s certification. provided Baldwin while at Harpers Ferry. “I love the National with some infor- Park Service and believe I will be with the Loving every minute mation about the Service my whole working career,” he said. “I inda W. Smith, from Woodbridge, Vir- federal government even hope to come back to Harpers Ferry one Lginia, likes her new home in Harpers Ferry, Student Tempo- day. I always felt that the chiefs, supervisors West Virginia. She is serving a 120-day detail rary Employment and the workers out in the field were dedicated as a facility services assistant at the park and Program. Soon af- to completing the mission.” “. . . loving every minute of it.” terward, he applied for and received a STEP Through their encouragement he was In 2001 Smith landed her first job with the appointment with the grounds, roads and trails inspired to attain his wildland fire red card, Youth Conservation Corps at Prince William crew at Harpers Ferry. Following graduation, chainsaw certification, commercial driver’s Forest Park in Triangle, Virginia. Though she he worked as a field supervisor with the West license and CPR, AED and first aid certifica- wasn’t planning on a permanent career with Virginia Civilian Conservation Corps, attached tions. He also attended a variety of hazardous the NPS at the time, she continued her educa- to Harpers Ferry. In 2007 he was selected material and other safety courses. tion, worked a few jobs and graduated with a for a full-time permanent position with the Recently he began working toward certifi- bachelor of arts in parks and recreation man- agement from Northern Arizona University. Why did she come back to the NPS? “As I Your path might begin with STEP or SCEP got older and held other jobs, I realized how he Student Educational Employment Program provides federal employment opportuni- much I loved working for the national parks,” Tties to students who are enrolled or accepted for enrollment as degree-seeking students she said. “I loved the variety, the places and taking at least a half-time academic, technical or vocational courseload in an accredited the people. At Prince William, I worked in the high school, technical, vocational, two- or four-year college or university, graduate, or Student Temporary Employment Program for professional school. The Student Educational Employment Program, established in 1994, grounds, roads and trails, and later as a visitor is a streamlined version replacing the old Federal Student Employment Program use assistant. It is comprised of two components: the Student Temporary Employment Program, or “In 2006 I accepted a Student Career Ex- STEP, and the Student Career Experience Program, or SCEP. perience Program appointment, again working The STEP provides maximum flexibility to both students and managers because the with maintenance. I came to Harpers Ferry in nature of the work does not have to be related to the student’s academic or career goals. The 2009 and love working here, too. Being hired SCEP, however, provides work experience that is directly related to the student’s academic here as a permanent, full-time employee was program and career goals. Students in the SCEP may be noncompetitively converted to a big step. I’m very fortunate to work with term, career or career-conditional appointments following completion of their academic people who encourage me.” and work experience requirements. Smith currently is enrolled in the Olmsted The Student Educational Employment Program benefits both agencies and students. Center for Landscape Preservation’s Landscape Agencies can discover firsthand the abilities of a potential employee. In the case of SCEP, Maintenance Skills Development Program and agencies can bring well-educated graduates into their workforce while at the same time hopes to take advantage of other training and give their managers the ability to evaluate the student’s performance in real work situa- opportunities as they become available. USNPS tions. Students, on the other hand, can avail themselves of such flexibilities as year-round employment and flexible work schedules and assignments. Students in the SCEP gain exposure to public service while enhancing their educational goals and shaping their career choices. Marsha Wassel is the interpretive specialist/public Students may contact their school guidance office, career planning and placement -of information officer at Harpers Ferry. She has worked fice, teachers or federal agency employment office where they are interested in working. for the NPS for 25 years and lives in Martinsburg, West For more information visit these OPM websites: www.opm.gov/employ/students/index.htm Virginia, with her husband, Jim, and daughter, Jessica and www.opm.gov/Strategic_Management_of_Human_Capital/fhfrc/FLX04020.asp. Starkey. An avid photographer, she spends much of her free time shooting for Wassel Photo & Design.

 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers Preserving and repairing On the path the structure’s masonry is to a an immense responsibility, permanent position especially because the historic materials, the Savannah gray bricks, are nearly irreplaceable.

is a task. Every year seasonals trim back the overgrowth along the trails, grade the walking paths and lay down a fresh layer of mulch. This labor ensures that the trails will remain in good working condition for the upcoming year. In the picnic areas and grounds, the grass grows thick and fast during the southern summer so continual trimming is required to keep them maintained for visitor use. The fort is a brick fortification that was constructed during the first half of the 19th By Katherine D. Purcell caused by this increased capacity, thereby century. This edifice contains more than 25 Fort Pulaski freeing permanent employees and allowing million bricks at least 150 years old. The myriad them to complete important projects in their of aged brick requires much care. Preserving imilar to many national parks areas specific fields. Without the summer employees, and repairing the structure’s masonry is an nationwide, Fort Pulaski is dependent our permanent staff would be overwhelmed. immense responsibility, especially because the upon seasonal employees. Without these The scope of work doesn’t end with just historic materials, the Savannah gray bricks, Ssummer hires, the monument wouldn’t be able maintenance jobs. Summer seasonals also are nearly irreplaceable. to catch up on the backlog of deferred main- collaborate with Fort Pulaski’s interpretive Though the preservation program is in its tenance projects. These employees also assist division, filling the ranks to assist with cannon early phases, summer hires learn to sensibly in completing new and ongoing maintenance and musket demonstrations. Seasonals often and sensitively care for the historic structure. projects, the enhancement of visitor use and look forward to the opportunity to fire these They are taught about the production of his- preservation initiatives. weapons and experience the fort and its history toric mortar, the lime process and the basics Since 2006 a team of approximately from a different vantage point. of repointing and repairing historic masonry. 20 students from various While a variety of main- With the exception of a few employees who backgrounds and disciplines tenance jobs are completed work to preserve the fort year-round, seasonals has worked at Fort Pulaski. Summer hires learn by seasonal employees, two are the Fort Pulaski preservation team. More than just a summer to sensibly and major projects— landscaping From basic maintenance to re-enactments, paycheck, these jobs have sensitively care for the and preservation— demand from landscaping to preservation, seasonal provided them with practi- historic structure. the majority of their time and employees do everything. They are vital to cal knowledge, job skills and effort. the survival of Fort Pulaski. Along with per- valuable insight into the inner Fort Pulaski, located just manent employees, these summer hires ensure workings of the National Park Service. Many outside of Savannah, encompasses both that the grounds and trails are well kept, the students return year after year, and some have Cockspur and McQueen’s islands. McQueen’s fort remains standing, the park continues to gone on to participate in the STEP and SCEP Island features a section of Highway 80 that function smoothly and visitors enjoy their programs. Several have become permanent connects Tybee Island to the mainland and experience. USNPS employees. an abandoned railroad bed. It has been trans- Summer is the formed into a hiker/biker trail that runs along Katherine D. Purcell has been a summer seasonal height of the visi- the edge of the water. at Fort Pulaski for nearly two years. In January she tor season at Fort While McQueen’s Island is primarily became a permanent employee through the Student Pulaski. The influx marshland, Cockspur Island has transitioned Career Employment Program. She will graduate of visitors demands from a conglomerate of boggy hammocks to this fall from the Savannah College of Art & Design more of the facili- a “proper” island encompassing 600 acres of with a bachelor’s degree in historic preservation ties and intensifies tidal marshes, woodlands, beaches and grassy and a minor in architectural history. the duties of rou- clearings. This varied terrain includes the fort Photo above, Katherine Purcell with her boss, tine maintenance. itself and several miles of walking and biking Mike Hosti, chief of maintenance at Fort Pu- Seasonal employ- trails and a picnic area. laski. At left, the Fort Pulaski preservation crew ees meet the needs Maintaining the trails and picnic areas for 2010.

RANGER • Fall 2010 u  projects. A few cherished days were spent well A Maintenance Career Chronicled above timberline in a rotary snowplow opening By Douglas Buttery Trail Ridge Road. The spectacular view Intermountain Regional Office from the “office” offered thousands of square miles of the Rocky Mountain grew up in an outdoor-oriented high country under brilliant, deep-blue family. My father was a career Forest skies. Service employee, ultimately ending In 2006 the opportunity to detail upI in Colorado as the Rocky Mountain to Southeast Utah Group as the facil- regional ecologist. Had the Intermoun- ity manager overseeing Arches and tain Regional Office been in its present Canyonlands became available. With location, I could have seen it from my support from the management team at bedroom window. Rocky I accepted the 90-day detail. It After high school I decided to mature was complex and fast moving. When before attempting college, serving three the job was announced I applied for and years with the U.S. Marine Corps, most at accepted it on a full-time basis. the Mountain Warfare Training Center high in version of NPS “fundamentals,” a structural Today I find myself in the Intermountain the Sierras. This was an outstanding location to firefighter, and assisting in search-and-rescue Regional Office as the acting regional chief of continue my hiking, backpacking and skiing, operations. facility management. and build upon a climbing interest. Upon my It became apparent that the leadership skills This career has been a dream come true. return to civilian life, I attended Western State I had gained could be put to a greater good, I have worked my way up from the lowest College, earning a bachelor’s in biology with and I made the plunge into supervision. It wage-grade position to being tasked with an a minor in geology. seemed to me that a field employee who had acting detail to oversee the facility management In the summer of 1979 I accepted a seasonal worked from a WG-1 to a WG-8 in all the operations of 91 parks. I have emulated great Wage Grade-1 campground caretaker position maintenance disciplines and had a strong desire leaders, watching and learning and taking at Grand Teton mainly to have the opportunity to work collaboratively with other divisions every opportunity to better my skill sets to be to climb in the Tetons. The following year I could have a large impact on when, how and the best employee for the NPS. I have gained was offered a WG-2 laborer position and was what got done. A wage supervisor position at experience, knowledge and skills beyond the promoted midseason to a WG-3. Haleakala on Maui provided my teeth-cutting original college skills, and I use these daily in My original intention of joining the Na- experience in NPS supervision. my decision making. tional Park Service was to work on a trail crew. In 1994 I participated in a three-week, I sit on the Intermountain Wilderness In 1982 I began a seasonal trail crew laborer job first-line managers class at Mather Training Executive Committee and the Intermountain at Lassen Volcanic. I had finished college, had Center. This was a great learning experience, Maintenance Advisory Committee, and I plan plans to marry and spent an incredible summer networking with other up-and-coming lead- to mentor a student in the Facility Manager experiencing the Cascade/Sierra convergence. ers learning the management skills needed to Leaders Program next year. National politics weren’t conducive to gainful effectively oversee field operations. The facility management leadership of employment in the natural resource field, but A move to Wind Cave as the general main- the NPS is acutely aware of the need to find, I was working for a great outfit, having the tenance supervisor continued to challenge and nurture and encourage our future leaders. The opportunity to travel and experience the parks broaden my supervisory skills. I was fortunate Facility Manager Leaders Program, a yearlong and getting paid to do it. to have a strong mentor in the superintendent intensive, hands-on training is successfully For several years I worked both summer and and was able to attend a two-week facility training highly skilled employees for critical winter seasonal jobs. Summers were spent as manager training, which furthered my supervi- positions after graduation. a trail crew work leader in the backcountry of sory and administrative skills and networking Facility management is looking at the large western parks, Olympic and Grand Teton. contacts. Soon after graduation I became the professional ranger program and discussing Winters were spent removing unbelievably acting facility manager and undertook a com- ways to build a similar program in facility deep snow loads from the roofs in Grand Teton. plex contract to replace Wind Cave’s elevators. management. Maintenance competencies and I jumped at every chance to help the NPS and A true learning experience! At this point in my career ladders are being constructed. Steve gain more skills and knowledge. Wildland fire career it became more important to be in the Hastings, the training manager, is pursuing a was a natural attractant — hard work, travel right place at the right time for my family. career academy to help interested individuals and being outdoors. I was fortunate to have In the spring of 2000, I accepted the more efficiently locate applicable training to strong mentors and moved from a Type 2 maintenance supervisor position on the west meet competencies and develop the necessary firefighter to a Class C sawyer to eventually side of Rocky Mountain. During my tenure skills to move upward. a Type 2 incident commander and logistics I worked for and with a terrific team. These Regardless of your background, with per- chief. experiences provided me with the opportuni- sonal motivation, tenacity and continuous After 11 years as a seasonal employee I ties to run a remote district operation day-to- monitoring of the situation and its opportuni- competed for and accepted my first permanent day, along with the long-range planning and ties, a future in NPS facility management is NPS position as Grand Teton’s sign maker. I formulation of projects. The job was varied; virtually unlimited. USNPS continued to seek opportunities to expand some days were spent in the office, some days my skills, becoming a trainer for an early were spent working with the crews on various Photo by Debbie Mason, Rocky Mountain

10 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers Park partners bring youth to craft of ages

By David Vekasy careers in historic preservation. San Antonio Missions Since their origins in the early to mid- 1700s, the complex architectural units of an Antonio Missions preserves the great- the missions have undergone many pres- est concentration of Spanish colonial ervation repair campaigns, including some architecture in the United States. The reconstruction in the 1930s. Thick masonry Simpressive and extensive remains of four walls, buttresses, painted plasters, and other mission compounds and auxiliary structures specialized arches comprise the resources that are constructed largely out of limestone and require special preservation knowledge, ex- sandstone and require intensive and frequent perience and ability to maintain, rehabilitate maintenance by skilled craftsmen. or rebuild. Multiple generations of repairs American YouthWorks mason apprentices work side To foster interest and opportunity for a new from differing but equally important historic by side with park staff while learning the nuances of generation of skilled professionals in the field of periods — Spanish colonial, Depression-era the masonry trade in a historic setting. historic preservation, the park has facilitated a work programs like the Civilian Conserva- partnership between its official friends group, tion Corps and modern preservation efforts nearly 700 labor hours in an eight-week period Los Compadres, and the Environmental Corps over different decades — complicate treatment alongside seasoned NPS masons Stephen of American Youthworks. strategies. Additional challenges include highly Siggins and Dean Ferguson. The following Los Compadres’ function is to provide expansive soils coupled with ground moisture year one of those apprentices, inspired by his financial support for preservation, restoration extremes, resulting in constant buckling and experience, was back in graduate school with and development projects at the San Antonio heaving of structures and causing cracks, fis- a new major, historical architecture. A second Missions. In 2008 the park introduced Los sures and wall failures. returned to our program to gain more work Compadres to American Youthworks, the Structures within the park include two experience. Austin, Texas-based youth and conservation national historic landmarks, the nation’s only In just the third year of the program, ap- serving organization. A relationship began functioning Spanish colonial aqueduct, a prentice Stephen Kittok (see photo on page 2) that provides mission-purposed success to all functioning 18th century refurbished grist turned experience in the apprentice program entities. mill, two historic dams, and four mission to a highly qualified applicant rating and was American Youthworks fulfills the mission compounds with associated structures, ruins selected for a seasonal WG-08 maintenance of engaging youth and young adults in con- and archeological resources. The park has worker-preservation position. His crew cur- servation work with a community focus. Los more than 250,000 square feet of masonry rently is working on a major project to rehabili- Compadres provides a financial investment and wall surfaces. tate wooden elements at Mission San José, the direct impact in the preservation of the historic The apprentice program started as a small largest site in the park. To date, nearly a dozen resources of the San Antonio Missions National pilot project with a $15,000 commitment. It apprentices in the program have contributed Historical Park. Finally, the park trains a new, enjoyed immediate success. Four well-quali- about 2,000 labor hours with park masons. diverse generation for seasonal or permanent fied and enthusiastic apprentices contributed More importantly, we are sowing the seeds for the next generation of men and women in the craft of masonry and historic fabric preservation that is crucial to protect all special resource areas. USNPS

David Vekasy is the facility manager at San Antonio Missions where he oversees the efforts of staff in facili- ties, grounds and historic preservation at four mission sites and other associated assets in the 826-acre park. He is a member of the Intermountain Region Maintenance Advisory Committee, which represents a proactive voice influencing facility management program direction within the region and the NPS. He began his NPS career in 1991.

t American YouthWorks mason apprentices work under the direction of NPS mason Stephen Siggins to stabilize a masonry wall. It will support a steep bank of the Espada Acequia, a seven-mile Spanish Colonial irrigation ditch.

RANGER • Fall 2010 u 11 parkway someday,” she said. After a period of 11 years, marked by mar- Farm life fundamental riage and the birth of a son, she returned to to Blue Ridge Parkway maintenance worker the Blue Ridge Parkway as a seasonal main- tenance worker in 2000. Two years later, she obtained permanent status when she was hired By Ben Blair state line at mile post 217 northward into as a WG-5, subject-to-furlough maintenance Blue Ridge Parkway Virginia for 34 miles. worker. A few years later she moved to a subject- Raised on a farm within two miles of the to-furlough WG-7 position. Since then, she t’s a clear, crisp spring morning in the parkway, Richardson has always loved the applied for and was promoted to a full-time plateau region of southern Virginia. Along outdoors. “My dad put me on a tractor soon permanent WG-7 position. the Blue Ridge Parkway a National Park after I learned to walk,” she said. “I spend a lot of time on a tractor,” Rich- ServiceI maintenance vehicle traveling north In 1988 a friend told her about the Youth ardson said. “In the summer it’s mowing and pulls over and pauses briefly at Pilot Moun- Conservation Corps program at the parkway. cutting trees and in winter clearing the snow tain Overlook. The view is breathtaking. You She applied for and was accepted, but she didn’t off the parking areas and roads. Other than can see for miles into the piedmont of North yet have her driver’s license and no way to get that, I just do whatever needs to be done.” Carolina. to work. Mom came to the rescue, driving her Two years ago she was involved in a search- Miranda Richardson has spent all of her life to work and picking her up each day. The next and-rescue operation for a hiker lost in the in Carroll County, Virginia, but the beauty of two summers were spent mowing, cleaning vicinity of the Blue Ridge Music Center. “That the area never grows old. On this particular day restrooms and all the other tasks performed was really something being called out in the she is on the way to the parkway’s Groundhog by a youth main- middle of the night to help look for a lost Mountain Picnic Area to prepare it for the tenance worker. person – and we found him,” she said summer opening. As a maintenance worker “That’s when I Richardson loves her job because it allows for the Blue Ridge Parkway, Richardson’s area first knew I would her to be outdoors most of the time. “I never of responsibility runs from the North Carolina like to work for the get bored. There is so much variety in my job and the parkway is such a beautiful place to work and the people are so nice.” She still remembers Lester Wood, her supervisor when she was first hired. “He was so helpful, taking time to explain how things should be done and how important safety was when doing any job. I really learned a lot from him,” she said. Richardson and her husband of 16 years own a used auto parts and scrap metal business in the local area, so between that and working at the parkway she doesn’t have a lot of free time. She does, however, manage to find time to ride her horses and relax and enjoy the outdoors with her family. What does Richardson see in her future? She plans to continue working in her present position, and one day might like to move into a supervisory position if the opportunity presents itself. She knows how difficult it is to get a job on the parkway, especially a permanent one. “Just keep applying and don’t get discouraged,” she said. “It’s worth the effort.” USNPS t Miranda Richardson

Ben Blair has worked as a seasonal employee for the Blue Ridge Parkway since 2005. After retiring from the U.S. Air Force he spent several years as a public affairs specialist for the federal government. He is a retired teacher and coach, having worked in the Texas, New Mexico and North Carolina school systems.

12 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers another way and I soon realized the necessity Next I was selected to establish the first From Seasonal of a steady income. One of the prospects was facility manager position at Moores Creek. a seasonal WG-07 maintenance worker posi- Through research, collaboration and late to tion at Cumberland Island. nights, a substantial position was created, giv- The competition was tight and interviews ing birth to a 10-year cyclic maintenance plan, Regional were scheduled. My interview went something implementation of FMSS, pertinent facility like this: planning for the visitor center rehabilitation, By William Ellis “Can you use a hammer?” an increase in network capabilities throughout Southeast Region “Yes.” the park, and operational planning and support

s a young boy growing “Are you afraid of heights?” for the anniversary event. Aup next to the Satilla “No, I respect heights but I’m not When Hurricane Isabel ravaged the eastern River in southern Georgia, afraid of them.” coastline in 2003 and caused damage at many I had no idea what the “Good. Be here Monday morning at parks throughout the Southeast, National “green and gray” was about. 7 a.m. Boat leaves at 7:30 a.m.” Capital and Northeast regions, response teams I was a typical youth in the Thus began my career with the were organized to assess damage by the storm. rural South and enjoyed the National Park Service. I nailed split We have since responded to other storms, outdoors by fishing, camp- cedar shingles on four buildings, including Hurricane Katrina. ing and boating. My father quite an introduction to the govern- I was accepted into the first class of the worked on shrimp/fishing ment workforce but far from the Facility Manager Leaders Program, created vessels and then became stereotypical stories of federal workers. in recognition of the diminishing resources self-employed as an exter- Through hard work and dedication to in facility management due to retirements or minator. We had a meager but enjoyable life. the mission I established a reputation among transfers. The program is dedicated to devel- Our holidays were filled with days at the river my peers. oping future facility managers for placement and at the beach. When the season ended I worked for more in the workforce. I now work as the facility I left the small town and joined the Navy, than a year with a private conservationist, tak- management system specialist in the Southeast and during my nine-year tenure traveled the ing care of maintenance concerns around exotic Regional Office. Southeast from Mississippi to South Carolina. animals. Next I rejoined the NPS as a seasonal I hope to continue sharing experiences and I then separated from the Navy and moved to WG-09 carpenter. In 2000 I was selected as the information in the development of future NPS Virginia. When my father’s health declined maintenance mechanic at Timucuan and was employees and continuing the development of in 1996, I returned home with the intent introduced to the new Facility Management those who look to me for advice. USNPS to take over his business. Fate would have it Software System, then known as Maximo©. ‘Gap’ job leads to career path in NPS or Matt St. James, a seasonal job that was Commonwealth University School of the Arts in the Maggie Fsupposed to fill the gap between college where he majored in kinetic imaging, learning L. Walker com- and career has turned into a path full of pos- three-dimensional modeling, computer anima- plex and fabri- sibility for promotion and experience. tion and video production. Upon graduation cating historic Now a WG-7/9 maintenance worker, he he applied for jobs with Northrop Grumman, moldings from joined the NPS in 2007 as a WG-3 seasonal Boeing, Lockheed Martin and the CIA, hoping scratch. laborer. Growing up in the West, St. James to capitalize on his military experience in the A l t h o u g h was surrounded by Yellowstone, Grand defense industry. While waiting to hear from his position Teton, Devils Tower, Mount Rushmore and one of these companies, St. James noticed a was seasonal, Badlands. His parents often took the family seasonal position for a WG-3 laborer open at his supervisors hiking and camping, and he wondered what Richmond National Battlefield listed on USA- learned that it would be like to work for the NPS. Jobs. He figured it would be a good source of they could retain him under the Veterans After high school St. James entered the income while waiting to hear about a defense Rehabilitation Act. In October 2008 St. Navy and served on the aircraft carrier USS job. James joined the NPS as a WG-7/9. George Washington and the fast-attack A month later he accepted the park job He has taken on more complex jobs, re- submarine USS Pittsburgh. Working with in part because he still hadn’t heard from the ceived additional training through the NPS weapons and explosives was interesting, but other potential employers. Facility manager Fundamentals program and began learning it wasn’t what he wanted to do for a lifetime. Dan Hodges said St. James’ experience with the Facility Management Software System. An avid artist and model builder, he then carpentry and woodwork meant he would work From scaling the rooftops of historic struc- worked as a carpenter and in the art depart- with Bill Reese, a historic preservation special- tures to going out on a tree limb to take a ment of a Disney Channel child’s television ist. Soon he was working on diverse projects, photographic survey of the James River, he show building props. including stabilizing the porch of the historic never knows where his job will take him In 2002 St. James entered the Virginia Shelton House, refurbishing historic windows next. USNPS

RANGER • Fall 2010 u 13 “Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.” —Theodore Roosevelt

the St Croix further cemented my ambition to become a permanent employee of the NPS. The following summer I reapplied for the same position on the St Croix but wasn’t se- lected. This was devastating, and I was sure that my hopes and dreams of working for the NPS would never become reality. Never a quitter, however, I was determined to keep applying. While working in my hometown for a local lawn care company, I spent countless evenings filling out applications and fine-tuning my résumé to seek a NPS maintenance position. My dreams of caring for NPS facilities had taken a hit, but hadn’t diminished. It was a cool, spring afternoon when the Canyon District maintenance supervisor

Adam Prato, Herbert Hoover telephoned from Yellowstone. That was a real turning point. I accepted a position as a laborer/custodian at Norris Junction and Hopes & Dreams Canyon Village. After working there for about By Mark Denker ful friends and colleagues in the parks and four weeks, my supervisor asked if I had an Herbert Hoover recreation field who helped me along my road interest in utility work. I didn’t know anything to success. about utility work, but I was willing to give it In the summer of 2000 I interned as a park a try. From then on I worked as a water and y most rewarding life experiences, maintenance worker for the Vilas County wastewater treatment plant operator trainee both professionally and recreation- Forestry, Land and Recreation Department in in the Student Career Experience Program. I ally, have occurred in national Eagle River, Wisconsin. I was responsible for studied water quality through Moraine Park Mparks and other natural areas of the United maintaining recreation facilities, including the Technical College in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, States. I take pride in working for an agency campgrounds, shooting ranges, picnic areas, and graduated with a degree in water quality. whose mission is geared toward providing hiking trails and boat landings. This was my I worked up the ranks of utility system opera- future generations with those same rewarding first park maintenance position, and it further tors but hadn’t forgotten my passion for the experiences. convinced me of my ambition to care for park Midwest. The desire to wear the green-and-gray areas. During the spring of 2007 I transferred from uniform of the National Park Service began After graduating from Vermilion in May Yellowstone back to St. Croix as a permanent when I was a young man. I give credit to my 2001 with a degree in park and recreation maintenance worker. I once again was living parents and grandparents for instilling in me management, I applied for my first position the dream. A short time later I learned of the a love for outdoor recreation through many with the NPS as a laborer on the St. Croix Facility Manager Leaders Program and was family vacations spent at county, state and National Scenic River. It was a competitive accepted into this career and life-changing federal park areas. Each summer for more than seasonal position and I was concerned that I program. I graduated from the program in 10 years, I, along with Boy Scout Troop 77 wouldn’t be considered for the job. After several April 2009, still wondering what would be of Dwight, Illinois, vacationed at Voyageurs. tense weeks, I was surprised — and relieved next. I witnessed NPS maintenance staff caring for — to receive a call offering the position. I was In mid-August 2009 I began working as the docks, campsites, boat landings and other the happiest I think I had ever been. facility manager at Herbert Hoover in West visitor-use facilities. At that time I knew I Summer 2001 on the St. Croix River was Branch, Iowa. The position has been a great wanted to be involved in caring for national challenging and exciting. I worked as a seasonal experience and I enjoy taking care of the park. parks facilities. laborer and learned many new things about Working together, the staff has been able to Following high school graduation in 1998, park maintenance. Mowing grass, building accomplish many projects that directly relate I was eager to find a way to live in northern bridges and constructing campsites were just to visitor satisfaction and resource protection. Minnesota. My dream came true when I found a few of my new skills. I also participated in an Being a part of and contributing to these my niche, in Ely, where I attended Vermilion NPS effort to assist the town of Siren, Wiscon- experiences is what has most influenced my Community College. I gained many wonder- sin, following a deadly tornado. Working on decision to work for the NPS. USNPS

14 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers You are 1 degree of separation from changing your world. Which 1 will it be?

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RANGER • Fall 2010 u 15 Buffalo soldiers return to Fort Davis National Historic Site

By John Ott history demonstrations. With the encourage- said, “I just wanted to give the respect to these Golden Spike ment of co-workers and the help of Linda soldiers that has been denied them for many he last Buffalo Soldiers left here in April Epps, a librarian at Sul Ross State University years.” of 1885, but if you listen carefully you in Alpine, Texas, McElwain befriended some of Both Hoffman and Winston are Sul Ross can hear them drilling outside, park the university students and locals who showed students studying criminal justice. Finding an Tranger Donna Smith explains to a visitor at Fort an interest in being part of a group of living interest in the black men who served in the Davis National Historic Site in west Texas. history Buffalo Soldiers. frontier army, they started out at Fort Davis as “That’s because Tim, our law enforcement/ Currently there are seven men in the group. volunteers. They now are seasonal rangers in the interpretive ranger, is on the parade ground Wearing 1880s living history army uniforms, Student Temporary Employment Program. drilling a group of black men dressed in army they delighted park visitors during spring break The Fort Davis staff is pleased to have uniforms like those worn by the men of the by demonstrating several military drills. McElwain and his cadre of Buffalo Soldiers 10th Cavalry at Fort Davis more than 125 “It has been a challenge teaching these men because it adds a new dimension to the story years ago,” Smith adds. the drill and history, however, they continue to of black men who served in the U.S. Army Timothy McElwain, a 24-year-old, 6-foot work hard and put out an enormous amount following the Civil War. 3-inch athletic ranger who wears a law en- of effort to portray the Black Regulars in the “The enthusiastic participation of the Sul forcement badge, is an energetic man with a U.S. Army,” McElwain said. Ross students and local community members in friendly smile and quiet manner. A graduate His patience and diligence have paid off. this living history program Tim McElwain of Wilberforce University in Ohio, he came Visitors can see the group not only on special is a great example of giving to Fort Davis two years ago and immediately occasions, such as Memorial Day and the to your community,” said developed a passion for the history of the Black Fourth of July, but also during practice sessions Superintendent John Mor- Regulars (Buffalo Soldiers) who served at the on the historic parade ground at the fort. lock. “The group brings a fort from 1867 until 1885. When asked why he joined the group, Ni- higher level of relevancy to Seeing a need for African-American, living jaune Winston said, “I am honored to relive our historic site by mak- history soldiers for various activities at Fort the history of my ancestors. It has been a great ing the fort come alive for Davis, McElwain was prompted to seek a way experience for me.” visitors, especially young to draw area black men to volunteer for living DeAndre Hoffman, another participant, people.”

16 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers John Heiner, chief of interpretation, added, Consider a visit to Fort Davis to witness him an honorary national park ranger designation “Having Tim, Nijaune and DeAndre portray this vibrant living history group. Or be the at Golden Spike. He and his wife, Gail, were named 19th-century black enlisted men has added a catalyst to help get a group like this started at volunteers of the year at Fort Davis in 1999. John has coordinated the Last Spike ceremony re-enactments new dimension to this park’s interpretive and your park. USNPS at Golden Spike for the past 11 years, and has served living history efforts. They’re quickly becoming John Ott, a retired engineer from Rockwell Interna- on an intermittent status at the park site. An ANPR a huge asset to the fort and the NPS.” member since 2007, he is the father of former ANPR Catching up with McElwain wasn’t easy tional, Collins Radio Division, considers himself a national parks advocate. He has been volunteering/ president Cindy Ott-Jones, a life member. for an old man with a pacemaker. Running working for the National Park Service since 1996 at Photos by Max Kandler with his German shepherd while wearing full various parks including Golden Spike, Fort Davis, law enforcement gear, he still moved quickly. Chiricahua and Pipe Spring. He was nominated for Between gasps for air I managed to get out the the George and Helen Hartzog Award in 2004 and question, “What’s in it for you, Tim? You will 2005. In 1998 NPS Director Bob Stanton awarded soon go to FLETC and move on to another park.” McElwain replied, “I believe in building a tradition, not resting upon one. It’s everyone’s responsibility to keep this history alive.” McElwain also enjoys giving an interpre- tive program called Trash Can Cavalry, during which he dispels many Hollywood myths about the U.S. Cavalry on the frontier. He uses — you guessed it, a trash can — to throw away inaccurate items as he removes them from his living history uniform. What McElwain calls “Hollywood Garbage” are items that western movies stereotypically put in people’s minds, such as a bright yellow bandana and suspenders. Indeed, a trash can might be one of the most creative interpretive devices yet.

RANGER • Fall 2010 u 17 Rangerin’ . . . more than just a job, it’s a family affair

By Jay D. Moose Thomas Stone

n 2001 I was turning 36 years old and had been in North Carolina’s famed furniture industry for much of the past 20 years. It wasn’tI fun anymore and I wanted more out of life than the typical 7 to 3:30 sweatshop job. Although I had gained skill as an upholsterer and had gathered valuable life experiences, I knew there was more to life. So I left the furniture industry, sold my home and moved into the barn behind my parents’ house to return to school. After earning my GED certificate in January 2002, I enrolled at a local community college to take core requirements before transferring to Haywood Community College in Clyde, North Caro- lina, to pursue a degree in forest management technology. I was instantly in love with learning and availed myself to every possible extracurricular activity to get the most from my college expe- rience. I ran for and was elected to the office Jay Moose and wife Courtney, with daughters Katie and Rachel, are pictured during a colonial of vice president of the Student Government Christmas event in 2008. Association. My good friend Robert Edwards and I co-founded the Haywood Community work. After graduating summa cum laude in married there amidst the beautiful fall foliage College Volunteers Club, and I served as vice December 2006 from WCU, I began applying and the growing herd of elk. president of that still-active club. Its purpose for NPS positions across the United States. Courtney and I share many things in life, is to help maintain trails and campsites in the In February 2007 I accepted a permanent including a love and respect for the NPS. We Great Smoky Mountains. park guide position at Thomas Stone National recently purchased a home in King George, I signed up for an Everglades study tour Historic Site in southern Maryland. Packing Virginia. We share a wonderful family life and through the college’s forestry program and everything I owned, I moved to La Plata, the love, respect and support one another. During subsequently spent 10 days touring the Ever- county seat of Charles County where my new special events at either park, the whole family glades, the Keys and many of Florida’s state park unit is located in nearby Port Tobacco. gathers, usually in colonial garb, to assist with parks. It was an after-hours visit to Highland Thomas Stone was a signer of the Declaration these public presentations. Hammocks State Park where my life would of Independence, and his home and 322 acres Both of our careers are growing and expand- be changed forever. There I met Ranger Bill, of rolling countryside are preserved. (I left a ing. Courtney recently accepted a position who delivered an after-dark program through huge piece of my heart in the Smokies and as the IT specialist at Fredericksburg and the backwoods of park. His knowledge of the vow to return one day.) Spotsylvania National Military Parks in Fred- resource along with his antics and humor made The Stone site is administered by the George ericksburg, Virginia. I have been promoted to me realize that I wanted to do what he does Washington Birthplace National Monument the ranger series, and at long last, am officially a — interpretation. in nearby Westmoreland County, Virginia. park ranger and get to wear many hats through After graduating magna cum laude from The “birthplace,” as it is affectionately service to the agency. HCC in May 2004, I attended Western Caro- known, hired a new office automation assistant On July 28 we welcomed our very own lina University and earned an undergraduate in January 2008. Courtney, the holder of this junior ranger, a new daughter we have named degree in parks and recreation management. new position, arrived at the site to become Jayme. USNPS Through this program I completed five in- acquainted with it and the story we tell. I was terpretation internships with the Smokies. responsible for orienting her to the story and ANPR member Jay Moose lives in King George, I was hired as an SCA seasonal interpretive we became instant friends. We began spending Virginia, while working at Thomas Stone. park guide in the summer of 2004. Before the a lot of time together and soon realized that season began, however, I was hired as a paid neither of us wanted to move away from one park guide with the National Park Service. My another in pursuing our NPS careers. career was off and running. I worked three In October 2009 we returned to the Smokies consecutive seasons as a park guide through together, along with her two daughters, Katie the STEP program while finishing my course and Rachel, who are like my own, and were

18 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers noting that similar proposals for reform were A N P R under serious consideration in 1994 but dropped off the congressional radar screen ACTIONS & NEWS after the changeover in the majority party in the Congress. This legislative proposal is primed to move Congress hears testimony from NPS, through Congress because it has no dollar cost and no mandates. It would not impact the USFS, unions regarding seasonal hiring federal budget. It would merely: a. allow seasonal (temporary) employees By Tom Banks and Amy Gilbert article/2010/06/29/AR2010062904996.html. to apply on equal footing after they have 24 ANPR Board Members Simpson indicated that seasonal hiring dur- months of federal service. congressional hearing was held June 30 ing peak workload periods is critical to park b. expand the window of opportunity up- Ato review a proposal from the National operations, but that inequities in the treatment ward for those over 36 years old who apply for Federation of Federal Employees, to give long- of permanents vs. seasonals and the resulting federal law enforcement and firefighter jobs. serving seasonal (temporary) employees the difficulties with morale are concerns the NPS c. provide temporary employees extra con- “status” to apply for federal jobs under merit wants to address. Acknowledging the results sideration when applying to keep their job if promotion procedures. of ANPR’s 2010 seasonal survey and the NPS their position is converted from temporary to Tom Banks, ANPR’s board member for Workplace Enrichment survey, he later stated, career status. seasonal perspectives, sent an e-mail message “I know that many seasonals who work for the If you’d like to help influence this legisla- to ANPR members alerting them of the hear- NPS for extended periods of time do so at con- tive proposal, there are many avenues for your ing and how to get involved. Amy Gilbert, siderable personal expense and inconvenience. comments. Contact Amy Gilbert, Tom Banks ANPR board member for special concerns, We are working hard through our Workplace or any other ANPR board member if you want attended the hearing and met with several in Enrichment Program to address issues that to express your opinion regarding whether attendance. affect motivation and performance by our ANPR should support this legislation and The Washington Post reported on the employees, and seasonal employment-related partner with NFFE’s efforts (contact details hearing, quoting written testimony submitted issues (will be) a significant part of that.” below and on back cover). by Jerry Simpson, NPS assistant director for NFFE is working with key committee NFFE’s effort is being spearheaded by workplace management, and Forest Service members in Congress and other federal em- the NFFE Forest Service Council. You may and Office of Personnel Management officials. ployee unions to finalize a specific legislative contact NFFE-FSC representative Mark Da- See www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/ proposal and garner support to help it move vis, their legislative committee chairman, at through the legislative process. As currently [email protected] if you want to become written, key provisions of the proposal would directly involved. give temporary employees, once they have 24 Call or write your congressional represen- USNPS months of federal employment, the “status” tative and their staff and ask if they will be to apply for permanent federal jobs in the participating in the process of developing this same manner as career or career-conditional legislation. Contact your friends and tell them ROAD MAP for my heirs employees. what this legislation would mean for you and In addition, the proposal would allow the people you work with. This ANPR-produced “Road Map” can assist seasonal employees to use their months of The proposal, while modest, is a necessary family or friends in handling details when a service in federal law enforcement or firefight- first step in providing seasonal employees a spouse or loved one dies. ing positions to meet the age requirement for chance at upward mobility. Like all congres- A notebook has fill-in-the blank forms applying for these permanent jobs when they’re sional action, it needs active citizen support about: over the age of 36. in order to become law. • your desires about final arrangements Currently, being hired as a permanent For more information on the hearing and • civil service, military & Social Security federal law enforcement officer or firefighter is on the proposal, go to http://www.nffe-fsc.org/ details limited to those who haven’t reached their 37th committees/legislative/temp_hire.php • insurance facts, bank accounts and more . To locate • synopsis of life, obituary & family his- birthday. The proposal would allow someone to and contact your congressional representatives, tory be hired for permanent federal law enforcement click on “What Can I Do?” on that website. • list of disposition of personal items at age 38 and five months, for example, if they — Tom Banks, [email protected] • anatomical gift wishes had 18 months of temporary service time as a and Amy Gilbert, [email protected] • examples of durable power of attorney seasonal NPS law enforcement officer. With the limited time remaining in this $10 per book, plus $4 for shipping and handling. session before the election, the odds of passage Affordable health insurance U.S. currency only. this year likely are small. However, depending Medical, dental, vision and other coverage options are available through ANPR and Make check payable to ANPR. on the makeup of the next Congress (which www.anpr.org/insurance.htm Send to: ANPR, 25958 Genesee Trail Road, party holds the majority, and therefore, who Aetna. Visit PMB 222, Golden, CO 80401 the committee leaders are), this proposal has for more details. Help spread the word about a real chance of passing in 2011. It is worth this limited-benefits program.

RANGER • Fall 2010 u 19 anxiety, worrying, irritability, feeling insecure, A N P R The Professional Ranger sleep problems, depression, angry outbursts, undereating, overeating, social withdrawal or CTION Administration even crying spells. A S ’Tis the season! (year-end closing, that is) Taking care of each other is a vital part of ANPR provides testimony to — There is a favorite quote that procrastina- keeping the NPS family healthy and together. House subcommittee tors love to cite by Douglas Adams: “I love A quick check-in with the administrative staff Holly Rife represented ANPR at a hear- deadlines. I love the whooshing sound they could go a long way in helping someone make ing May 25 of the House Subcommittee make as they go by.” it through another day of year-end closeout. on National Parks, Forests and Public For most of the fiscal year this quote is hu- Don’t forget a smile, a joke or a reassuring Lands. It focused on “The Future of the morous and can apply to those deadlines that comment. We all need to come up for air! Oh National Park System.” Specifically, ANPR turn out to be more flexible after all. However, yeah, and chocolate may also work. q there is one deadline that can’t be ignored and — Michelle Torok was asked to speak on the topics of NPS Saguaro workforce/employee recruitment, diversity, it always falls near the end of September. We development and training. Our written are fast approaching the business of bring- testimony is online at www.anpr.org/docu- ing another fiscal year to a close, and ’tis the Interpretation ments/ANPRHouseTestimony5-25-10.pdf. It season to look for those telltale signs of the The Art of the Interpretive Rove— Statisti- is important to note that the intent of our administrative staff working to meet this very cally, less than 20 percent of park visitors attend testimony was to benefit all current and important deadline. interpretive programs. This is unfortunate, potential employees and not just those in A good observer may notice the subtle especially when, as interpreters, we spend a lot park ranger positions. change in the air that happens with budget of time preparing for our formal presentations. and administrative staff. First comes the With such a small program attendance rate, q q q dreaded e-mail from WASO funneled through interpretive roving will always remain a vital the regional office. It is titled something like means of one-on-one interaction with park ANPR annual professional “fiscal year closeout instructions” with several visitors. It is important that we understand conference & Rendezvous 33 attachments that when printed may have used and appreciate the significance of this method Our annual gathering is set for Oct. 31- enough paper to kill a small tree. Nevertheless, of interaction. Nov. 4 in Bend, Oregon (see more details it is a necessary evil that becomes the blueprint When I was a seasonal interpreter this was on page 25). As we quickly approach Sept. on how to close the books on another fiscal never explained to me. I remember my first 30, the date when any unused portion of year. It is carefully printed, perhaps tabbed or impression of seeing the term “rove” on my our hotel room block will be released, we tagged with sticky notes, highlighted, dog- work schedule. I had to ask my supervisor what request that you reserve your room at The eared and read more than once. it meant and how to use my time during a rove. Riverhouse now. Call 1-800-547-3928 and Another change an observer may notice is Basically, I was told to “go walk the trails” and ask for the ANPR room block. that the budget and other administrative folks “provide a presence” in the park. That seemed might become a little withdrawn and begin to simple enough. It gave me an opportunity to q q q mumble words like accruals, obligations and get out of the visitor center, get some exercise status of funds. Doors that were open most of and immerse myself in the park. I couldn’t Location selected for annual the year may be closed now to allow for quiet believe I got paid for it. I loved roving, but professional conference & processing of all the accounting that needs to meeting visitors was secondary. If I did meet Ranger Rendezvous in 2011 take place. Those in the know may not even a visitor along the way, I would say hello as we After receiving input from the membership, attempt to approach the closed door the final passed. Occasionally a visitor would ask me the ANPR Board of Directors voted 8–0 week of September. If a small offering is ap- directions on the trail. This was the extent of to accept the offer of the Crowne Plaza pealing, chocolate or other forms of caffeine my roving method. Williamsburg at Fort Magruder (www. may do the trick. It seems that roving has different meanings cpwilliamsburghotel.com). The dates will be Obvious changes may also be seen among for interpreters. At one park where I worked, Oct. 10-15, 2011. Williamsburg, Virginia, the budget and other administrative staff. Our the staff considered roving to be an opportu- encompasses such attractions as Colonial eyes may become glazed, beads of sweat may ap- nity to drive around the park in a government National Historical Park (Jamestown and pear as concentration deepens, snappy answers vehicle. Getting out of the vehicle to interact Yorktown units), Colonial Williamsburg may occur and we may begin mumbling aloud with visitors wasn’t important. On other occa- and Busch Gardens. in what sounds like our own secret language. sions, when staff saw they had rove scheduled ANPR members who provided feedback Acronyms such as AFS, FFS, ET, IT, ALCT next to their name, this meant they could spend favored Williamsburg over Ocean City, and SALT tables become everyday vocabulary the time checking their e-mail. Maryland, by 55 percent to 21 percent. as we prepare documents, process actions and I often got morning phone calls from staff Another 24 percent said they wouldn’t come update tables in the budget programs. asking if they could use the day’s rove time to either location. All tongue-in-cheek comments aside, I am for completing administrative tasks or getting appealing to all park staff to remain vigilant ready for an upcoming interpretive program. for signs of stress in the administrative and It was obvious to me that the staff’s perception budget staff this time of year. Keep an eye of roving needed changing. When I tried to out for raised levels of stress that may produce explain to them that roving was much more

20 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers than what they perceived, I typically got blank supervisor is needed to improve an interpreter’s questions indicate a need for basic informa- facial expressions as a response. Does every- ability to read visitor cues. Imagine all the tion. “Why” questions provide an opportunity thing have to be so complicated, they asked? interpretive opportunities that are lost as a for interpretation. An experienced and well- The answer is no; roving doesn’t have to be result of ineffective roving or the lack of rov- prepared interpreter will have a variety of complicated but it does need to be intentional ing because the supervisor didn’t recognize its appropriate techniques to answer this type of and focused. interpretive value. A supervisor needs to make question. During a rove, a good interpreter will First and foremost, the purpose of inter- coaching of interpretive roves a priority in the provide more than just a verbal explanation. pretive roving is to make contact with park work schedule. If future trends continue, resulting in visitors and provide them with orientation, One of the most useful strategies I’ve used fewer visitors attending formal programs, the information and when possible, interpretation. during a rove is to listen closely to the type importance of the interpretive rove will surely As interpreters and supervisors, we must instill of question being asked by a visitor during a grow. As supervisors and interpreters we need in ourselves and our staff the vital importance contact. The question usually falls into one of to work together to plan and implement the of roving. three categories: where, what and why. most effective roving strategy in our parks. I’ll venture to say that roving is more “Where” questions (I don’t need to remind Roving will always be a valuable means of important than the formal presentations we you of the most common question that visitors providing a personal service for visitors. q make, such as interpretive walks and campfire ask!) indicate a need for orientation. “What” — Pete Peterson programs. Let’s end the false notion that roving Grand Canyon is something an interpreter does in order to “fill in” the blank spaces on a schedule when not presenting formal programs. Teaching and coaching (unfortunately some Join ANPR still call it “auditing”) effective roving should be given equal or more time during interpretive on training than teaching and coaching what is an effective walk, talk or illustrated program. The potential exists to reach over 20 percent social media of park visitors, more than formal programs USNPS Association of National Park Rangers |  are able to do. Roving is a form of informal visitor contact as described in the NPS Interpretive Develop- ment Program. Making an effective contact ® begins with hiring interpretive staff who have facebook LIVE THE ADVENTURE the maturity, social skills and willingness to Join the National Park Service interact with visitors. • A guide to becoming I’m astounded by the number of front-line Linked in ® a park ranger staff (seasonal and permanent) I’ve encountered with the National Park Service who lack these basic skills. These include the ability to be a good listener and have a sincere Visit each website and interest in the needs of the visitor. search for Association of A guide to I recall talking to one such interpreter at a becoming a National Park Rangers. park ranger busy site. Our conversation had just ended and with the the interpreter turned around to walk away. National Park Service At that same moment a visitor was walking ASSOCIATION OF up to the interpreter just a few feet away. The NATIONAL PARK interpreter spotted the visitor and quickly RANGERS turned back to face me with a terrified facial Connect with Stock ANPR’s popular booklet expression. The interpreter had turned away in your park’s bookstore from the visitor knowing that the visitor had friends and intended to make contact and ask a question. Refer visitors and prospective park employees I was stunned. work colleagues. to this informative publication. Go to www. It is also important for interpretive staff to anpr.org/publications.htm for single copies or understand and respond to verbal and non- bulk ordering details. Support ANPR. verbal cues from visitors during an interaction. These cues include tone of voice, body language Discussions, and the type of questions they ask. This ability photos, news to read visitor cues requires a keen sense of focus that is intentionally watching, listening and more. and responding appropriately. Consistent and repeated coaching by the

RANGER • Fall 2010 u 21 Resource Management many resource management divisions today trainings and experiences to engage across I’m of an age to think more about legacy is- oversee both natural and cultural resources, disciplines, to learn and appropriately support sues and, as my park manager has said, about and whether at the regional directorate or the many specialist viewpoints in the context whether I’m training my successor, even if I’m park division level, it’s logically quite difficult of park legislation, policies, and mission. not quite ready to hang up the Stetson. to find candidates who have experience with Of late, I believe I’m seeing renewed interest Journeyman resource professionals often both. in younger employees obtaining red cards for comment that seasonals get the best of the Relative NPS newcomers may not know fire duty, as fire managers increasingly struggle work — lots of field time monitoring plants, of the 1980s-era discussions over generalists to find higher-level staff who desire or are wildlife, geologic features or archeological vs. specialists, and I don’t seek a return of the permitted time enough to fill the intensive sites; hands-on time with museum objects debate. But I do believe we should continually training requirements for fire assignments. or historic structures; out ‘GPS-ing’ natural examine whether, as professionals, we’re devel- I’m inspired by seasonals from all divisions or constructed features--in remote corner of oping not only the subject matter expertise but and disciplines who seem energized by science their park, while the supervisors are more desk- the leaders and managers needed to achieve seminars and are creating teams to make their bound, analyzing data, writing or reviewing our stewardship goals. parks more ‘climate friendly.’ I’ve watched the reports, and administering their programs. Supervisors, I hope we’ll ask ourselves individuals who volunteered to help with the Whether accurate or not, I hope that super- whether we’re encouraging and supporting our Gulf oil spill and returned from a sweltering, visors and the subordinates themselves seek subordinates in being exposed to and familiar sobering experience with more determination opportunities for the seasonals to get broad with the concerns of other resource specialists to protect parks, visitors and local communi- exposure to park work, across the disciplines and interpretive and protection rangers, or ties. I’m thinking about how we prepare and in resource management and beyond. concessions managers and maintenance staff. treat our human resources as much as how Since I began my NPS career three decades That we’re seeking out and mentoring future we sustain our cultural and natural resources. ago, park work, as in so many other fields, has leaders. Young professionals who think you How are we doing? q gotten increasingly specialized for many good may desire a long NPS career, consider whether — Sue Consolo Murphy reasons. Yet, in recent years, a number of my you want to be the best in your specific field, Grand Teton peers and I have not uncommonly discussed or whether to someday become a division chief Are you a resource manager interested in becom- how, when recruiting for chiefs of resource or superintendent or even director--and, if the ing a columnist in this space? Please contact the management, we long for a broader range of latter, seek a range of jobs and/or collateral editor at [email protected]. experiences in the applicants. Of necessity, Health Insurance for Seasonals & Park Partners Available to all ANPR members Coverage not affected by employment Visit www.anpr.org for more details

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DISCLAIMER: The National Park Service does not sponsor, sanction or endorse this health insurance plan, but provides this display for information only.

22 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers Kudos List Education and Training ANPR Reports These people have either given a gift member- Preconference training available — ANPR, Membership Services ship to a new member in recent months or the WASO Operational Leadership Office New membership benefit — Pro Deals! You recruited a new member or an old member and Mather Training Center will sponsor now are eligible to purchase a great products at to return to ANPR. Thank you for your two preconference workshops on Sunday, a reduced rate, often wholesale prices. ANPR membership help. Oct. 31, during the Ranger Rendezvous in has negotiated access to approximately 75 Russell Lindsay Andrea & Nicholas Bend, Oregon. pro deals from different companies, through Ricardo Perez Capps-Henke Operational Leadership is for all NPS em- ProMotive.com. At this website you can apply Fawn Bauer Deryl Stone ployees interested in increasing their leadership as an ANPR member and, once verified, you Maureen Finnerty Cliff Marsom skills in managing a safe work environment. have access (from that website) to dozens of Melanie Faria David Byers Learn how to assess safety issues within the company’s pro deals, including Leki, Timbuk2, Dick & Mary Martin Erin Broadbent workplace and communicate those concerns to Rob Burrows Bill Pierce Ocean Kayak, Marmot, Suunto, Gregory, supervisors, employees and peers. This eight- Teresa Ford Tyler Gum Helly Hansen, Skullcandy, Crank Brothers Katharine LaCroix hour course, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., counts and many more. toward the 40 hours of supervisory training. The brands featured on Promotive.com The second offering isInterpreting Critical recognize your role as an industry influencer Mentoring Program Issues: Climate Change from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. More mentors needed: ANPR’s facilitated and offer these deep discounts in exchange for Learn theory, strategies and best practices for mentoring program has run out of mentors to spreading the word about their products. interpreting the complexities of climate change. match with protégés. If you’re an experienced Here’s how to sign up: The course is open to anyone interested in park employee (in any discipline) and want to Go to www.promotive.com/ext/anpr learning more about this timely subject. share your knowledge with a new member, 1. Click on the “Apply” button under Join There is no fee for either course, but pre- sign up now. A short submission form is at Team. registration is required by contacting Rebecca www.anpr.org/mentor.htm. Contact Bill Pierce, 2. Enter team code: FA9A-5608-DAED- Harriett at (304) 535-6224 or rebecca_har- [email protected],with questions. F443 [email protected] no later than Oct. 1. Space is 3. Submit application and await verifica- limited, so register early. Please take advantage tion. of these training opportunities. 4. Begin shopping. — Rebecca Harriett, Harpers Ferry — Liam Strain, Gateway

RANGER • Fall 2010 u 23 IRF Update

By Tony Sisto and his team. Segalerba intended to International Affairs, ANPR discuss the long-term interest of the IRF in its Protecting the Protectors World Ranger Congress in 2012 program to help gain recognition — Tanzania, Africa and support of the work rangers do The IRF has chosen Tanzania as the locale for around the world, often in difficult the 7th World Ranger Congress. The Con- and dangerous circumstances. He gress, held approximately every three years, is highlighted some of the international scheduled for 2012, with exact dates still to work of ranger associations world- be determined. wide in cooperative “beyond borders” After the Bolivia World Ranger Congress in training and assistance projects. He November 2009, IRF requested proposals from also learned about international interested countries to host the next Congress. responsibilities of the NPS. It received two proposals, from Portugal and Tanzania. IRF president to be keynote The Congress will be hosted by the PAMS speaker at EUROPARC Foundation, a locally registered conserva- Federation Congress tion nongovernmental organization, and a IRF president Deanne Adams has provisional member of the IRF (http://www. been invited to speak at the annual pamsfoundation.com/). They have entered into EUROPARC Federation Congress partnership agreements with leading conserva- Sept. 29 – Oct. 2 in Abruzzo, Lasio tion organizations including the Game Rangers and Molese national parks in Italy Association of Africa (an IRF member), The (http://www.europarc.org/conference-

Teresa Ford Teresa Nature Conservancy, World Wildlife Fund 2010). She also will chair a workshop A lone giraffe towers above an acacia tree at Lake Manyara Tanzania and other groups to help organize on “Communicating the Message” National Park in Tanzania. The country has preserved nearly the Congress. on biodiversity, the focus of the 14 percent of its land in national parks, also including Their application stated in part: “The Congress. NPS Director Jon Jarvis Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire. The next IRF partners are all highly supportive because has been invited to give a keynote World Congress will be in Tanzania in 2012. they realize what the Congress will mean for address on Sept. 30, and by all ac- conservation in the East Africa region and for counts he intends to be there. I will give a full raising the profile of rangers and especially report in the winter edition of Ranger. Enjoy the the emerging community ranger sector of Tanzania. . . Apart from South Africa where New IRF member associations from outdoors, the GRAA has been established for 40 years, the United States there is still no other functioning ranger as- The Bureau of Land Management Law Naturally sociation anywhere else in Africa. One of our Enforcement Association and the Park Law primary goals is to launch a new local African Enforcement Association (www.myparkranger. ranger association at the 7th World Rangers org/), both sponsored by ANPR, and the Park Congress.” Rangers Association of California (www. Start getting your safari gear together. I calranger.org/), sponsored by CSPRA, have will give more information in future Ranger been accepted as regular members of IRF. All Terrain sells natural remedies developed issues. Congratulations to these new ranger associa- by and for hard-core, outdoor enthusiasts. tions on their IRF memberships. q The Repellents, Sunscreens, Remedy Rubs, IRF represented at World Heritage Functional Soaps, First Aid and Performance Tony Sisto can be reached at [email protected]. Supplements provide high performance for meeting in Brazil hiking, camping, fishing, gardening or simply Marcelo Segalerba of Brazil represented IRF as working around the yard. an official observer at the 34th session of the All Terrain is a proud sponsor of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee July 25- Association of National Park Rangers. Aug. 3 in Brazilia, Brazil (http://www.34whc. Share your news! We want to hear from you. Order All Terrain products online. At checkout brasilia2010.org.br/). Take a minute to tell others please designate ANPR as a beneficiary of All Because representatives from the NPS Inter- your news. Use the form on Terrain’s environmental partners program — and national Affairs office in WASO also attended, the inside back cover, send an 10% of the purchase price will go to ANPR. I was able to arrange an e-mail introduction e-mail to [email protected] or www.allterrainco.com between Segalerba and Stephen Morris, chief visit the ANPR website: www. anpr.org/family.htm. of the NPS Office of International Affairs

24 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers Help send several to first Rendezvous Donate to the Bill Supernaugh Memorial Scholarship Fund to replenish the scholarship money. Your contributions are accepted online at www.anpr. org/donate.htm or by mail to ANPR, 25958 Genesee Trail Road, Golden, CO 80401. © Steve Tague/NorthWest Crossing Tague/NorthWest © Steve Rendezvous in Bend, Oregon, for ANPR’s annual professional conference By Mallory Smith in the areas of conservation, environmental Sunday evening: reception and Halloween Grand Teton stewardship, interpretation, science, and costume party and dance ign up now for the 33rd annual pro- employee recruitment and support. Aligned Monday and Tuesday: exhibitor area open, fessional conference and Rendezvous, with the agenda of NPS Director Jon Jarvis, meet trade specialists and vendors “Building Bridges to the Future,” in this program promises to bring current topics Monday evening: conference reception SBend, Oregon. With a full agenda, three affili- to all conference participants. Tuesday morning: new attendees breakfast ated training courses, lots of Rendezvous fun A half-day service project, “Leading by Tuesday evening: films or similar activities and a great setting, this is sure to be one of the Example,” is planned for Nov. 2 at nearby most exciting ANPR gatherings yet. Pilot Butte State Park. We will work together Raffle, photo contest Preregister at www.anpr.org now to get with Oregon State Parks to maintain old trails, Find a raffle prize from your area to boost the lower conference rate (ends Oct. 10). The construct new trails, build a split-rail fence and Rendezvous fun and support ANPR. Prizes website includes full details. restore impacted areas. can be sent ahead to Beth Spencer or Roger Book your hotel room at the The Riverhouse The conference also features three affiliated Rudolph (e-mail them for mailing addresses, on the banks of the Deschutes River north of NPS training courses: two one-day courses, [email protected] or rogerarudolph@gmail. downtown Bend. Call 1-800-547-3928 and Operational Leadership and Interpreting com) or bring them with you to Bend. ask for the ANPR room block. Daily room Critical Issues - Climate Change, on Sunday, The photo contest allows up to two un- rates are $90 for a standard room and $69 for a Oct. 31, and a 32-hour Leadership Seminar for framed images, no larger than 8 by 10 inches, standard room for members in the seasonal or New and Developing National Park Leaders of national or international park sites. student category (capped at 15 percent of the integrated with the conference program from room block). The occupancy tax is about 10 Monday, Nov. 1, through Thursday, Nov. 4. Check the Web for more details percent. The room block is available through Go to the online conference registration Agenda, registration: www.anpr.org Sept. 30 but may fill prior to that date. site for full details. Room share, rideshare, lower-cost yurt accom- The heart of the conference is the dynamic modations, golf: http://groups.google.com/group/ program, which features sessions on con- Rendezvous activities anpr---ranger-rendezvous-2010 temporary leadership challenges in the NPS Sunday afternoon: trips to John Day Fossil Beds Hotel: riverhouse.com and how to meet these for tomorrow’s needs and Lava Lands at Newberry Nat’l Volcanic Bend: www.ci.bend.or.us.

RANGER • Fall 2010 u 25 Judy Jennings, chief of concessions manage- Hoover, has been selected as the new superin- All in the Family ment in Yellowstone, retired July 2. She began tendent of Mount Rushmore. She begins the her career in Yellowstone as a forestry technician assignment Sept. 27. She started her NPS career Please send your news to Teresa Ford, Ranger in 1975. She also worked in Glacier, Devils as a seasonal park technician at Jewel Cave. She editor: [email protected] or 25958 Genesee Tower, Yosemite and the Intermountain Re- was a seasonal ranger at Yellowstone before Trail Road, PMB 222, Golden, CO 80401. gional Office. She and her husband,Daryl , a getting a permanent position at Independence. You also can send All in the Family submis- retired U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service fisheries She also has worked at Death Valley, the In- sions and/or update your contact information biologist, are moving to the Dayton, Wyoming, termountain Regional Office, Bryce Canyon by visiting ANPR’s website: www.anpr.org. Go area. Address/phone: P.O. Box 165, Dayton, and Knife River Indian Villages. to Member Services. WY 82836; 307-655-9202; juby_jennings@ hotmail.com Barry Sullivan (GATE 05-10, FIIS 98-05, Kale Bowling (LABE, REDW, CAVE, OLYM, DEWA 87-98, BLRI 84-87, THRO 80-84, FOVA, MORA, CEBR) is moving to Portland Larry Johnson, is the new superintendent at GATE 78-80, EDIS 76-78, MORR 77) has in the fall to complete a master’s degree in cur- Jewel Cave. He had been chief ranger at Sleep- retired after 34 years. His last position was as riculum and instruction. She hopes to return to ing Bear Dunes. He relocated to the Black Hills superintendent of Gateway NRA. Currently the NPS full-time developing formal education area with wife Jan, an artist and writer. he is working on the restoration of the New programs. She also hopes to be excused from York Harbor Estuary with the Secretary of the two days of class to coordinate the Rendezvous Doug Lentz is the new head of concessions Interior’s office. He served several terms as an in Bend. Contact info will still be montanan- at Grand Canyon. Previously he was deputy ANPR board member. [email protected]. [email protected]; 541-281-7162. chief of concessions for the past year. Before that he has worked for the Forest Service and Lynn Thompson, an NPS career Andrea Capps-Henke has transferred from the NPS in maintenance, interpretation and employee who served in various George Rogers Clark NHP in Indiana to the law enforcement. He worked in concessions positions, including superinten- lead park ranger position at Lewis and Clark management at Yellowstone, Hawaii Volcanoes dent of Yosemite and regional National Historic Trail in Omaha, Nebraska. and all parks in the Pacific Islands. He lives director of the Rocky Mountain Nicholas Capps-Henke was hired as the senior in Flagstaff with his wife, Catherine, an en- Region, died June 13 in Marin law enforcement park ranger at Homestead of vironmental protection specialist in the park’s County. He began his park career as a seasonal America in Beatrice, Nebraska. They moved Office of Planning and Compliance, and their ranger at Yellowstone. He also served as a con- in early August to 8527 W. State Highway 4, 11-year old son, Connor. cessions analyst at NPS headquarters in Wash- Beatrice, NE 68310. ington, D.C., superintendent of Haleakala and Bill Schappell has taken a permanent position a legislative analyst in Washington, D.C. His Walt Dabney, former NPS chief ranger and at the Lincoln Home. Previously he worked for last position was as superintendent of Golden current state parks director for Texas Parks the Bureau of Reclamation at Hoover Dam. He Gate in 1978. He retired in 1980 and traveled and Wildlife, is retiring — again. After a 30- also has worked for the NPS as a seasonal and extensively, including trips to Tahiti, France, year NPS career, he signed on with the Texas term employee at Blue Ridge Parkway, George Mexico, Canada, Hawaii and Greece. agency in 1999. He has been responsible for Washington Memorial Parkway and the Robert 93 state parks and historic sites in eight regions E. Lee Memorial. He and his wife, Rosemarie, Emily Weisner has taken a position as a stra- and nearly 1,500 employees. His retirement and their son, Nathaniel, relocated from Las tegic planner for the Southern Arizona Group. date is set for Aug. 31. Walt.Dabney@tpwd. Vegas, Nevada, to Springfield, Illinois, in mid- Previously she worked at Arlington House. She state.tx.us. July and are enjoying their new locale. has relocated to Indiana and is preparing for her November wedding to Kendell Thompson, Career NPS employee John W. Henneberger Cheryl Schreier, superintendent at Herbert superintendent at Lincoln Boyhood. q died June 24 in Corval- lis, Oregon. He served as Welcome (or welcome back) to the ANPR family! the first superintendent of Here are the newest members of the Association of National Park Rangers: Chattahoochee River NRA, Stephanie Acheson...... Orange,VA Kristen Luetkemeier...... Estes Park, CO superintendent of Scotts Holly Alpert...... Mammoth Lakes, CA Catherine Maginnis...... Bellingham, WA Bluff (1958-62) and assistant Ron Borders...... Shelbyville, TN Sandra Moore...... Roanoke, TX Bill Briggle...... South Beach, OR Karena Myers...... Milford, PA superintendent of Hawai`i Jaclyn Brown...... Berlin, MD Peter Newcomb...... Mansfield, MA Volcanoes. He also served as manager for the Greg Colligan...... Denali, AK Carol Petricevic...... Sylva, NC Denver Service Center from 1974-78. Hen- Rudy Cooks...... Put-in-Bay, OH Ronald & Sherri Ramseyer...... Sullivan, IN Mariah Cosand...... Klamath Falls, OR Michael Reynolds...... Collingswood, NJ neberger coordinated the wilderness studies Roberto Cruz...... Soledad, CA Michelle Riter...... Boulder City, NV for the Service under George Hartzog, and Marc De Puy...... Ramah, NM Saoran Roeuth...... Lowell, MA he spent time as a ranger early in his career at Robert Dunnagan...... Lewistown, MT Casimer Rosiecki...... Chesterton, IN Jennifer Ferreira...... Arcata, CA Cameron Sanders...... Anchorage, AK Olympic, Joshua Tree and Yosemite. In retire- Dave Frederick...... Shingletown, CA Justin Skewes...... Blacksburg, SC ment he remained passionate for the protection Jeremiah Hanks...... Fairfax, CA Carl Stockman...... Germantown, MD of national parks, wilderness and open space. Tamara Helland...... Cortez, CO Gloria Updyke...... Colonial Beach, VA Cindy Hoff...... Bismarck, ND Rosharon Welchans...... Denali Park, AK He wrote extensively about the history of parks, Blake Holt...... St. George, UT Teresa Wolfe...... Houlton, WI starting with ancient preserves in China. Tanya Kitterman...... Bellingham, WA Samantha Zurbuch...... Shepherdstown, WV

26 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers chances” in the book’s title. I was particu- Webb challenges the reader to think by posing In Print larly struck by his description of people who questions — and then answering as she solved slipped while ascending or descending steep and contributed to solving issues of the time Death, Despair and Second Chances snowfields. These kinds of slips almost always — often contributing to broad policy issues. in Rocky Mountain National Park, end in tragedy when the person hits the rock Her career bridged between uniformed and Joe R. Evans, Johnson Books, Boulder, piles at the end of the chutes. Evans recounts non-uniformed positions; serving in regional Colo., July 2010, ISBN: 978-1-55566- several incidents that ended with the visitor offices and parks from Alaska to the South- being bruised and broken, but alive. west and Intermountain West. She started as 440-4, 304 pages, paperback, $18.50 Death and Despair also includes sections historian in Alaska’s Regional Office, then on on the history of Rocky Mountain, a bit of to the old Southwest Regional Office in Santa Reviewed by Rick Smith history about the ranger profession, and a Fe, before getting her first superintendency at short explanation of the evolution of search LBJ National Historical Park. Her picture on his is the fourth in a series of books that and rescue in the park. Most of this will be the cover was taken in uniform in 1992 as as- Tchronicles the deaths that have occurred familiar ground for readers of Ranger but Joe is sistant superintendent at Grand Teton. in specific national parks.Death in Yellowstone a good enough writer to make it seem fresh. I think the book debunks some myths. The looked at fatalities in our first national park, My only difficulty with the book is that first myth is that professional regional offices Over the Edge dealt with Grand Canyon and Off I don’t know the national park very well so employees often “don’t get it” (whatever “it” the Wall, co-authored by ANPR member Butch many of the place names, canyons, mountains, happens to be for a field employee). Perhaps Farabee, recorded the deaths in Yosemite. climbing and hiking routes didn’t mean much because of her field historian orientation, or ANPR member Joe Evans, retired chief to me. I think that had I read the book with perhaps because of good fortune in mentors, ranger at Rocky Mountain, is the author of a topo at my side, I would have found some Webb got it from the very beginning of her this book. He dedicates it to each member of of the accidents easier to understand. career, and kept a focus on resources, and the every search-and-rescue team, paid or volun- But that’s my problem, not Evans’ or his best practices to conserve them for future teer, who has risked her or his life in support book. I liked his admonishments about being generations throughout her career. of those in need. As we know, there are many, safe in the park and how to avoid accidents. The second myth is that historians and often unsung, heroes. Most of the chapters have safety messages that cultural resource professionals can’t see the In the dedication he draws attention to the should be of value to park visitors. real world of the Park Service, as field park work of park rangers throughout the world. I’m buying this book not only to support ranges do. Webb built her career on being Every day, rangers put themselves in danger an old friend, Joe, and the Ranger Dependents a consummate professional historian that to protect park resources. For those rangers Fund, but also because it’s a good read. I hope completely understood what it takes to run a killed in the developing world, there is little readers of Ranger will do the same. q park. Preserving and enhancing our national or no safety net for their families. The Ranger legacy was always on her mind, just as sharing Dependents Fund was created to support the Rick Smith, a life mmber of ANPR, retired from the it with the public was. families of rangers killed in the line of duty. NPS and lives in New Mexico and Arizona. The third myth that Webb’s book dispels is This fund is supported by ANPR and managed q q q that someone with a professional background, through the International Ranger Federation who mostly serves at a compliance and policy (www.int-ranger.net) and the Thin Green Line level, is somehow boring and detached when Foundation (www.thingreenline.info) Any sup- A Woman in the Great Outdoors: viewed by field rangers. The book’s title makes it port you can offer will be appreciated. Adventures in the National Parks, sound like her career was one uplifting escapade Evans puts his money where his mouth is: Melody Webb, University of New after another. A self-proclaimed insomniac, 50 percent of his royalties from the sale of this she had many fitful nights contemplating her book will be donated to the Ranger Dependents Mexico Press, 2007, ISBN: 978-0- decisions, her council to regional directors and Fund. 8263-3176-2, 286 pages, paperback, WASO, and her input during ground-breaking Like the other authors, he divides his book $18.95 meetings and policy development. Along with into chapters dealing with the cause of death: good, solid mentors and spot-on thinking, she hiking or scrambling, climbing, avalanches, Reviewed by Ken Mabery participated in some momentous decisions, heart attacks and other medical emergencies, Scotts Bluff and more routine ones, but decisions that had motor vehicle accidents, suicides, drowning, the potential to affect the future of the park hypothermia, aircraft accidents, lightning, s a longtime friend of Melody Webb and she was serving in, that region and the NPS. snow play accidents, lost, falls from horses, Aher husband Robert Utley, I jumped She recounts the daily trials of standing up falling rocks, and the odd and unusual accidents that the chance to read and review this book. to outside interests, including congressional that seem to occur in every large park. This definitely is not another ranger’s career delegates, and the joys of doing the right thing; He also adds a chapter on mutual aid to journal or memoir. Although Webb and her of being appointed to high-level work groups, agencies outside the park, including a good husband are both historians, this isn’t a histori- and the challenges in her home life. (Despite section on the Big Thompson River flood of cal retrospective either. And yet, it is a little her small stature, she served on a volunteer 1976 that claimed the lives of 145 people. bit of both, combined with political treatise, fire department for six years, rising to assistant Unlike the other books, Evans also adds environmental conservation, women’s studies chief. Let that be a lesson to rangers.) vignettes of people who survived what should and an unvarnished look at the National Park Her story is told in a straightforward have been certain death; hence the “second Service from 1975 through 1996. Throughout, manner, with overtones of good humor, RANGER • Fall 2010 u 27 In Print (continued from previous page) that the stamps only serve to augment the the National Parks [sic] Service,” Therefore, it even when talking about nasty encounters photography. Yes, there are some facts about is a little off-putting to see the words “National with bureaucrats, congressmen and antipark the stamps, but these appeal to the broad audi- Park Quarters” in a Forest Service-type of individuals. This is not a book about adrena- ence, not just stamp collectors. For those who shield rather than something resembling our line thrills of search and rescues, wilderness love quotes from leaders in the conservation own arrowhead emblem. exploits or public speaking, although all of movement, they are all here: Frederick Law Of course, this series is not truly an NPS these are included at one point or another. Nor Olmsted, Theodore Roosevelt, John Muir, quarter series; rather, it is the “America the is it another high-level, self-serving memoir Laurence Rockefeller and more. The book title Beautiful” series. Seven states and one U.S. that we have become accustomed to from is from a Walt Whitman quote. Wonderful, but territory will not feature a NPS unit. ex-directors. When it comes to a book about not-often-seen quotes from NPS notables are Oregon, for example, featured Crater Lake one person’s career with the NPS, this one is here too, including one of my favorites from on its state commemorative coin in 2005. absolutely unique. We get to see the difficulties Director Conrad Wirth. Rather than choosing another of its three and joys of a non-traditional career (at least When I mentioned fresh photography, this NPS areas, including Oregon Caves National from a ranger’s perspective). As the back cover does not necessarily imply new photography, Monument, the first NPS unit to adopt the proclaims, “(This) should be required reading although there appears to be some of that too. NPS arrowhead logo, the U.S. Mint’s “America in every public history course.” Historic photos abound, they just aren’t the the Beautiful” series allowed Oregon to feature Moreover, it should be required reading for same tired ones we have seen time and again Mount Hood National Forest, established Sept. everyone wishing to develop her/his leadership in other publications. Nor are the featured 28, 1893. capabilities and everyone struggling to develop parks the same ones we see all the time either. In fact, only three of the nine states that a vision for their contribution to the National The icons are here: Yellowstone, Yosemite, clearly featured a national park unit on their Park Service. q Everglades, Devils Tower, Grand Teton and state quarter will feature that same unit on this Grand Canyon. The relatively overlooked units new series: Arizona (Grand Canyon), Cali- Ken Mabery is superintendent at Scotts Bluff. are here too, like El Morro, Andersonville, fornia (Yosemite) and South Dakota (Mount q q q New Orleans Jazz, Fort Davis and my current Rushmore). Perhaps South Dakota had limited favorite, Scotts Bluff. choices, but California and Arizona certainly The Grandest Things: Our National Treat yourself. Get this book. And encourage missed out on exercising some outstanding Parks in Words, Images and Stamps, your cooperating association to carry it. q alternatives. Of the eight coins that will not produced by United States Postal q q q feature a park unit, five will be national forests, Service and National Park Service, two will be national wildlife refuges and one will be a wilderness area. q Published by the U.S. Postal Service National Park Quarters Collectors with Journey Group Inc., ISBN 978- Map Book Folder, Whitman Publish- ing, ISBN 978-079482884-4, $9.99 Whether you’re at the 0-9796569-2-7, 116 pages, $64.90 bottom of the ladder Reviewed by Ken Mabery Reviewed by Ken Mabery Scotts Bluff or climbing to the top Scotts Bluff . . . you’re welcome to his is not truly a book, but a portfolio that n the day that this book was announced, Tmany will want to build their collection join ANPR’s mentoring OI reserved a copy. As a childhood stamp of NPS quarters. The National Parks Quarters program. collector and an adult collector of NPS books, Series was launched a few months ago with Hot this was a “must have.” Advance promotion Springs in Arkansas (the first national park unit If you’re serious about advancing indicated that this would be a collector’s item to be established and commemorated in this your career or have with lavish production values. series), followed by the Yellowstone quarter in k n ow l e d g e t o Indeed, the 116-page coffee-table book has June. The series will culminate in 2021 with impart to a younger something for everyone: fresh photography on the release of the Tuskegee Airmen National employee, the first every page, quotes from iconic conservationists, Historic Site quarter. step is completing history and stamps. There will be many options for cataloguing an application as a I doubt that there are more than 10,000 and displaying your NPS quarters collection, mentor or a protégé. words in the whole book. Perhaps a few including the standard blue coin-collector’s It’s easy — fill out more, as the first chapter (21 pages) contains portfolio, but this one is the most fun. The the short form on a brief history of the national parks. Even in folio includes the standard list of release dates ANPR’s website at these pages, the visual appeal is tremendous. and featured locations. What sets this apart is www.anpr.org. Go to the link under The second chapter is a coast-to-coast tour the map — each of the 56 quarters is displayed Membership Services. It’s easy to sign up of parks and postage stamps. The third and in the appropriate state, District of Columbia online — and could make a difference in final chapter is about collecting national park or U.S. territory. In addition, the alphabetical your career. postage stamps. listing of states includes the establishment date For more information contact ANPR’s Don’t let the postage-stamp theme throw of the park or unit commemorated on that coin. mentoring coordinator, Bill Pierce, at you. There is plenty here for the non-stamp There is a disclaimer that “this product is not [email protected]. fanatic. In fact, this book is so skillfully done affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by

28 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION — Association of National Park Rangers  New Member(s)  Renewing Member(s) Date ______Name of ANPR member we may thank for encouraging you to join ______

Name(s) ______4-letter code of park / office where you work ______(Retiree=RETI, Former NPS Employee=XNPS, Student/Educator=EDUC, Park Supporter=PART) Address ______Home phone ______City ______State ______Zip+4 ______Personal e-mail address ______ANPR will use e-mail as an occasional – but critical – communication tool. We will not share your information with any other organization. It is our policy not to conduct ANPR business via NPS e-mail or phone. Payment by Visa or MasterCard accepted: Type of Membership (check one) Visa ______MasterCard ______NOTE: The annual membership renewal notification is each fall with an annual membership period of Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. Membership for those who join Oct. 1 or after will last the entire next year. Card # ______

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____ Resources Life Members (lump sum payment) ____ Maintenance ACTIVE (all NPS employees/retirees) ASSOCIATE (other than NPS employees) Individual  $2,500 Individual  $2,500 ____ Concessions Joint  $3,000 Joint  $3,000 ____ Park Partner ____ Other – list: ______OR life payments made be made in three installments over a three-year period. Rates are $850 per year for individual or $1,025 for joint. If full payment isn’t received by the third installment due date, the amount paid shall be applied at the current annual membership rates until exhausted. At that point the membership will be Special Supporters lapsed. Check here if you want to make payments in three installments ______. Contact the president or fundraising board member for details on special donations. Check the website  Gift Membership $35 (please gift only a new member other than yourself, one year only) at www.anpr.org/donate-ack.htm Name of person giving gift ______

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TOTAL ENCLOSED: ______Association of National Park Rangers 25958 Genesee Trail Road, PMB 222 Membership dues in excess of $45 a year may be tax deductible. Consult your tax adviser. Golden, CO 80401

Send news to: Teresa Ford, Editor Share your news with others! [email protected] or Ranger will publish your job or family 25958 Genesee Trail Road, PMB 222 news in the All in the Family section. Golden, CO 80401 or visit ANPR’s website: www.anpr.org and Name ______go to Member Services page Past Parks — Use four-letter acronym/years at each park, field area, cluster (YELL 96-98, GRCA 99-05) ______New Position (title and area) ______Old Position (title and area) ______Address/phone number (optional — provide if you want it listed in Ranger)______Other information ______

RANGER • Fall 2010 u 29 Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Golden, CO Association of National Park Rangers Permit No. 158 25958 Genesee Trail Road, PMB 222 Golden, CO 80401

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Directory of ANPR Board Members, Task Group Leaders & Staff

Board of Directors Task Group Leaders President Membership Services International Affairs Scot McElveen, Retired Liam Strain, Gateway Tony Sisto, Retired 288 Letner Road, Helenwood, TN 37755 107 A Mont Sec Ave., Fort Wadsworth, NY 10305 1348 Glen Drive, San Leandro, CA 94577 (423) 286-8644 • [email protected] (646) 707-0475 • [email protected] (510) 633-1282 • [email protected]

President-elect Professional Issues Retirement Stacy Allen, Shiloh Mike Anderson, Southeast Regional Office Frank Betts, Retired 290 Residence Circle, Shiloh, TN 38376 51 Oak Shores Drive, Newnan, GA 30265 1326 Catalpa Drive, Fort Collins, CO 80521 (731) 689-3451 • [email protected] (770) 253-2902 • [email protected] (970) 226-0765 • [email protected]

Treasurer Seasonal Perspectives Ranger Editorial Adviser Bill Schappell, Lincoln Home Tom Banks Mark Herberger, WASO P.O. Box 5625, Springfield, IL 62705 PO Box 419, Pioneer, CA 95666-0419 2111 Jefferson Davis Highway, Apt. 1110 N Arlington, VA 22202 (484) 332-1521 • [email protected] (508) 579-2521 • [email protected] (571) 926-1509 • [email protected] Secretary Special Concerns Emily Weisner, Southern Arizona Group Amy Gilbert, Arlington House Staff 185 W. Melchoir Dr. South, Santa Claus, IN 47579 6428 Blarney Stone Court, Springfield, VA 22152 ANPR Business Address (614) 406-9400 • [email protected] (703) 731-4268 • [email protected] 25958 Genesee Trail Road, PMB 222, Golden, CO 80401 (303) 526-1380 • [email protected] Education and Training Strategic Planning Teresa Ford, Membership Services Director Rebecca Harriett, Harpers Ferry Stacy Allen, Shiloh 265 Old Plantation Road, Rocky Mount, VA 58854 290 Residence Circle, Shiloh, TN 38376 Financial Operations (540) 489-4893 • [email protected] (731) 689-3451 • [email protected] Bill Schappell, Lincoln Home P.O. Box 5625, Springfield, IL 62705 Fund Raising Activities (484) 332-1521 • [email protected] vacant Ranger Editor, ANPR Website Coordinator Internal Communications USNPS Teresa Ford Eric Leonard, Chickasaw 25958 Genesee Trail Road, PMB 222, Golden, CO 80401 Route 1, Box 222A, Wynnewood, OK 73098-9749 Stay in touch Home office & fax • (303) 526-1380 • [email protected] (405) 665-6331 • [email protected] — www.anpr.org — News, features, member services — and more

30 t ANPR • Association of National Park Rangers