"After 43 years of doing this, some things didn't sound accurate to me. So I started researching this in in order to to put together a program to go out and really explain what the history of these places are and what is fact and what is fiction."

When was the last time you thought about the history behind our public lands? It's more intricate than many realize. One person that knows that is a veteran leader in the world of parks, Walt Dabney.

Walt joined us fresh from the 47th annual Ranger Rendezvous. This event started back in 1977 and continues to bring park rangers together. His presentation on the history and future of public lands was incredibly compelling. Do yourself a favor and take the time to watch it on YouTube.

Walt unpacked the historical context of how America's public lands came to be, from the Louisiana Purchase and Treaty of Paris to the impacts of the Mexican War. He explained how the lens of history is crucial to understanding current debates, particularly the contentious issue of transferring federal lands to state control.

One of the major points Walt made was the looming risk if states like Utah successfully demand federal land transfers. Managing these lands is no small feat, with wildfire costs alone hitting $119 million in 2018. If states can't afford to manage these lands, we risk seeing them sold off and lost forever.

Walt, who once led Texas State Parks and served decades in the National Park Service, brings the wisdom of his extensive career to the forefront. His ongoing educational outreach highlights the importance of public engagement. His key message is clear: we must understand and appreciate public lands' history to safeguard their future.

Resources

www.parkleaders.com

https://parkleaders.com/about/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

 

"Signs don't do much. It's the educational programs where you're actually talking to people that are the most effective in changing behaviors."

Notable Moments

00:42 Prescott's volunteer-driven, unique park ranger system.

03:26 Code enforcement change to interpretation.

07:07 Leave No Trace signs to improve local campsites.

11:48 Enhance accessibility and safety to attract families.

15:38 Launching a Junior Ranger program

18:06 Nature Ninos partner is developing a local STEM activity center.

20:53 ADA trails improve park accessibility.

Sean Underhill is a park ranger from Prescott, Arizona helping get city-level park programs up and running. He shares insights into their extensive volunteer efforts and a new ranger program that is building a bridge between parks and local communities. The implementation of a city level Junior Ranger program is one great example of the innovative initiatives they are working on.

Read the blog for more of the takeaways from my conversation with Sean.

Resources

www.parkleaders.com

https://parkleaders.com/about/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

 

"We honor our profession and we're proud of what we do to remember those that we lost."

Park Rangers often dedicate their life to the preservation of nature. There is another side of the work that is less known; Uncovering the forgotten stories of those who paid the ultimate price. My conversation with Jeff Ohlfs, retired chief ranger of Joshua Tree National Park, explored the often-overlooked sacrifices of park rangers worldwide. Read more about his work in the blog. 

Resources

Association of National Park Rangers

Park Rangers Association of California

www.parkleaders.com

https://parkleaders.com/about/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

 

"As a helper, as a as a compassionate individual, you can get compassion fatigue, physical fatigue, and emotional fatigue because it is devastating."

Resources

www.parkleaders.com

https://parkleaders.com/about/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

 

"By bringing varied backgrounds into conservation careers, we are ensuring our parks represent all of America."

Connect with Doug

Email Doug Mitchell

Glacier National Park Conservancy

Resources

www.parkleaders.com

https://parkleaders.com/about/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

In Glacier National Park, the journey to reintroduce bison is a great example of the power of perseverance and learning from failure. The collaborative effort between the US Federal Government, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Glacier Park leaders, and the Blackfeet Nation was a key marker in the project’s success.

This journey wasn't straightforward thought. Read more about it here on my blog. 

"I've never been there early enough to see the sunrise, but I've been there late enough to see the sunset. And it does have a really pretty sunset."

Notable Moments

02:04 Common Questions from Visitors

06:33 Importance of Seasonal Training

08:02 Day in the Life of a Park Employee

10:12 Family adventures with bears. 

Resources

www.parkleaders.com

https://parkleaders.com/about/

It's not every day you get to hear from someone about their experience working at the park they group up in. However, that is exactly what my daughter, Gretel, spent her summer doing at Fort Flagler State Park. I couldn't be more grateful to have her joining Phil Gaines and I to share her insights into what makes Fort Flagler so special. 

Take a listen or read about it by visiting my blog.

"The small stuff is where you create that memory or you create an impression that never leaves them. Attention to those little details really matter."

Attention to details isn't just a small matter; it can transform the experience of park visitors. In the latest episode of the Park Leaders Show, Phil Gaines returns for a conversation about why the small stuff is crucial in parks and conservation. Paying close attention to the seemingly little things can make a monumental difference to visitors.

Notable Takeaways:

• Small Stuff Matters: Whether it's ensuring cobweb-free restrooms or aligned signs, paying attention to small details reflects how well the entire park is managed. This attention can significantly affect visitors' perceptions and experiences.
• Creating a Culture of Care: Consistent attention to minor details not only maintains cleanliness but also instills a culture of discipline and care among park staff. This can be infectious and elevate the whole team's commitment.
• Visitor Perspective is Essential: Regularly experiencing the park from a visitor's viewpoint can help identify areas needing attention. This practice ensures parks remain welcoming and beautiful, staying true to their purpose of creating lasting memories.

Don't wait for special visits from higher-ups to spruce up your park. Adopt the mantra: "Don't get ready; be ready." Every visitor deserves the same exceptional experience!

Take a listen to episode 303 to hear more strategies for park rangers and managers to view their parks through the eyes of visitors. It shouldn't be a surprise that visitors care that you maintain a high standard of cleanliness and care. They are always paying attention to details, so don't miss out on more ways that your attention to detail can make a big difference in parks.

Resources

www.parkleaders.com

https://parkleaders.com/about/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

 

"We need to inspire people, especially young people, with innovation. That is how we can change the world in a positive way.  Connect with Viktor

Glice website

Viktor's Website

Viktor on Instagram

 

Resources

www.parkleaders.com

https://parkleaders.com/about/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

Viktor Meier is the cofounder and CEO of Glice®, a revolutionary company that has developed synthetic ice for a more sustainable ice skating experience. This conversation sheds light on how Glice® rinks are being used globally, from cold climates in Iceland to the sunny beaches of the Maldives, enabling ice skating in places and times previously thought impossible.

Viktor grew up in Switzerland surrounded by nature. His commitment to conserving our environment was deeply influenced by the Chernobyl disaster. His journey from diplomat-in-training to eco-innovator is truly inspiring.

Highlights from the episode:

• Viktor’s Journey:

  How growing up in Switzerland and witnessing the Chernobyl disaster inspired Viktor’s lifelong commitment to conservation and innovation.

• About Glice:

  The fascinating story behind Glice®, a synthetic ice that offers the feel and glide of real ice with zero energy and water usage.

• Impact on Parks:

  Discover how Glice® enables park systems in varying climates to introduce new recreational activities sustainably.

• Learning Opportunities:

  How parks can use Glice® to educate the public on sustainability and innovation.

• Future Prospects:

  The potential growth in sports and recreational activities in regions traditionally unable to support ice rinks.

Viktor’s vision doesn't stop at recreation. He believes innovation is our best path toward a sustainable future. By showing kids these advancements, we inspire the next generation to tackle climate change creatively. 

Whether you are a park ranger, manager, or an advocate for the environment, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom. Learn how integrating innovative products like Glice® can attract a new audience to your parks while promoting sustainable practices and conservation. Take a listen now to hear Viktor's advice on authenticity, humility, and the importance of learning and innovation.

 

"Because he died so early, there was no opportunity for him to really grow into what a lot of people think he was gonna become, which was the next director of the National Park Service and one of the leading conservationists in the nation."

Key Moments

04:06 Working in conservation, writing about science and natural history.

07:05 Writing a book in 2019 about George Melendez Wright

12:30 Zoom meetings, presentations, follow-up articles, interviews.

14:36 Early death led to unrealized potential in conservation; legacy left behind.

19:24 Early wildlife conservation efforts overshadowed by infrastructure.

22:27 George Wright's early influence on John Jarvis, the impact on park rangers, and policies that still persist today.

24:34 Preserve animals, protecting habitat, and National Parks.

32:32 Quaker professors value conservation, environment, and community.

35:53 Surprising connections with book while reading.

39:10 Seasonal jobs lead to few permanent positions.

40:04 Yosemite shooting sparks management issues in parks.

Connect with Jerry Emory

Purchase the Book

Resources

www.parkleaders.com

https://parkleaders.com/about/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

 

George Melendez Wright was a trailblazer in conservation and wildlife management whose work continues to influence our national parks system today. Jerry Emory, an esteemed author and conservationist, has written an insightful biography, "George Melendez Wright, the Fight for Wildlife and Wilderness in the National Parks." In this episode, Jerry delves deep into the life and legacy of George Melendez Wright, a pioneering figure in the National Park Service. Our discussion touched on Wright's groundbreaking work, his relentless spirit, and the critical influence of his mentors.

This episode highlights:

• Legacy of Innovation: George Wright introduced science-based wildlife management in national parks, advocating against harmful practices like feeding garbage to bears and developing a recovery program for the trumpeter swan.
• Resilience and Dedication: Wright's ability to overcome cultural resistance within the National Park Service, fueled by his intellect and personality, serves as an inspiring example for current and aspiring park leaders.
• Importance of Mentorship: The role of Wright's mentors, including Joseph Grinnell, was foundational to his approach in wildlife conservation. Surrounding yourself with supportive and knowledgeable mentors can significantly shape one's career and impact.

This conversation is a fascinating journey into the history of conservation and the impact one individual can have on the protection and preservation of our natural heritage. Whether you're an aspiring park leader or a seasoned park ranger, this episode is packed with insights, historical context, and stories that highlight the challenges and rewards of working in national parks. Thank you, Jerry, for such a great conversation on the impact of George Melendez Wright.

 

 

"If you look back over the last 100 years of significant events in America's parks, state, national, local, that, you know, on that list of the top 10 or 15 things that's that's changed the way we manage parks is, how we did the pandemic." Resources

www.parkleaders.com

https://parkleaders.com/about/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

We just celebrated a major milestone—300 episodes of the Park Leaders Show! This episode felt like a great opportunity for Phil Gains and I to reflect on what has changed in parks over the last decade and look towards the future. It's been an incredible journey of connecting with park managers, leaders, and thought leaders, and we're grateful for every listener who has been part of this adventure.

In this episode we talk about the evolution of our beloved parks. Some of biggest shifts came from the unexpected twists the pandemic brought. Here are three more takeaways from our conversation:

• Rising Visitation & Sustainability: Parks have seen a significant uptick in visitors, raising both excitement and sustainability concerns. How do we welcome more people while preserving our natural resources?
• Pandemic Impact & Innovation: The global pandemic has drastically changed park operations and management, leading to an increase in online interpretation and programming. We've had to adapt quickly, but the silver lining is the new ways we're connecting with our communities.
• Growth in Park Leadership: Over the past decade, we've witnessed advancements in workforce sophistication, visitor demographics, and the myriad challenges faced by park leaders. The Park Leaders Show has been there every step, evolving to discuss these critical changes.

A special shoutout to Phil Gaines for being such a significant part of this journey and to all our incredible guests and listeners. Starting this podcast was a way to merge my love for parks with business leadership concepts. It's been an absolute pleasure to make it happen. I look forward to continuing to bring you these conversations, including more on-location interviews and expand international park conversations. Let the adventure continue!

"Work-life balance means that you're trying to find a way to balance this so you're a complete person and your batteries are recharged." Key Moments

01:10 Peak of park busyness means a ranger is always on as a ranger.

05:29 Balancing work and life in park professions.

09:08 Passion for work requires deliberate disengagement.

11:52 Engaging in activities outside of work reduces stress.

13:38 Work-life balance leads to better performance.

17:03 Take a breath, step back, refocus.

21:45 The joys of the job are rewarding moments and fun challenges.

Resources

www.parkleaders.com

https://parkleaders.com/about/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

 

Being a park ranger isn’t just a job. For many of us, it’s a calling. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your own well-being. Phil Gaines and I talk about some practices that can easily be built into your routine and transform how you approach the ballance between your work and your life. As Phil says, "You are never not a park ranger, especially if you live in the park."

Finding a work-life balance is not just a modern buzzword. It is necessary for maintaining mental health, boosting creativity, and enhancing job performance. This is especially true for parks employees. Sometimes you need to slow down and recharge. During this conversation we highlight a few ways that have worked for us, inlcuding these four tips for finding balance.

1.  Prioritize & Make Lists
2.  Focus on 1 Task at a Time
3.  Take Breaks & Step Back
4.  Engage in Enjoyable Activities Outside Work

Whether you're knee-deep in summer activities or looking ahead to a much-deserved break, this episode is packed with insights that can help you navigate the busiest time of the year and beyond.