Mendocino National Forest heavily relies on recreation such as camping, hiking, and especially the use of OHVs. Quite a few of Forest Service employees directly focus on maintaining our OHV trails and campgrounds. Growing up, I had access to various OHVs such as quads, ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles. I was eager to be apart of a training for UTVs and even receive certification, which I can then use to become a UTV trainer! Having access to take part in various trainings has been such a rewarding experience.

I was also able to be apart of chainsaw training with our Cal-Fire Konocti crew. I’ve used hedge trimmers and big shears, so I went into the training semi-confident. Although, I was a bit nervous considering I was the only woman. I’ve always had an interest in fire so to be able to hear the stories for the fire crews was intriguing. Using a chainsaw was not easy in the slightest but learning about the proper ways to cut and trim trees was definitely new to me, I didn’t realize how much thought and precision go into it. There is so much full body strength that goes into cutting trees, I didn’t realize how different parts of my body would be sore the next day. I was able to learn how to maneuver the chainsaw when it gets pinched in a bend, although you do have to use an axe! Overall, I am grateful that this position allows for flexibility in terms of what trainings I am able to participate in. I am hopeful that having various trainings will make my resume more appealing thus leading to a career in the USFS where I am able to use my knowledge and gain more!