It’s been over four weeks as a Crew Lead for the Field Ranger Program on the Angeles National Forest in California and I’ve had so many experiences to reminisce on already. It’s going by a little too quickly and I’ve made the attempt to document what I can to really hold onto what this fellowship has to offer. My highlights with the program so far truly come from public engagement. 

I was taken back in time as an elementary school student when I worked the LA County Fair for a couple days during late May. I grew up going to the fair during Kids Day to experience America’s Great Outdoors section ran by the Forest and truly felt like a full circle moment being one to help create fun and educational memories for visitors. From teaching an elementary class how to pan for gold to shaking the hand of a magician that taught me about the water cycle all these years later, I had the best time. 

I didn’t grow up ever visiting the Angeles Forest, so orientations through the windy roads felt surreal and all worthwhile [even if it meant taking Dramamine every visit.] Some highlights of what I have seen include Millard Falls for its zig zagging hike to a waterfall, Mt Wilson for the scenic view above the clouds, and Elizabeth Lake stretching far and wide as habitation for duck families and haven for human families to recreate in boats or on picnics. I’m looking forward to being in these spaces to add on to visitors' experiences by educating on what is native to the forest such as plants and wildlife, what history a space may occupy, and how to practice safe recreation. 

I'm excited for what’s to come in the next 3 months and I can only expect growth and more memories especially with the crew members now coming along!