Interpretive rangers Morgyn Ellis, Elizabeth Schyling, and Becky Yaeger are on site to help visitors learn about the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. See the Interpretive Ranger Program Schedule; weekends through Labor Day 2017.
Interpretive rangers (L - R) Elizabeth Schyling, Morgyn Ellis and Becky Yaeger at the information contact station.
“What’s the monument?” Although some know the monument and its beauty, there is still an abundance of visitors that are unaware of the land their feet have been hiking upon all day.
The rangers are at the information contact station; and they will lead guided walks and conduct roving trail interpretation. They will host junior ranger programs and evening presentations at the Hyatt Lake campground.
So far the rangers have observed that children can make a connection between their previous experiences and relate to the presentations. Kids seem to have a better concept of biodiversity than a number of adult visitors. Most folks seem to be really impressed by the diversity of the monument and how it also contributes to their enjoyment of the recreational fishing and boating at the lake.
"Interpretation is equal parts knowing your audience to discover what interests them and knowing the landscape and resources. I have enjoyed learning what gets folks excited about the monument and using that knowledge to enhance their experience," said Ranger Morgyn.
BLM Interpretive Specialist Christine Beekman, works to provide as many opportunities for Monument visitors (on-site or virtual) to make intellectual and/or emotional connections with the natural and cultural resources. Live presentations diversify the traditional on site interpretive media such as waysides, kiosks and site bulletins.
Ranger Elizabeth said, "Being on the monument as an interpretive ranger has given me new motivation to look closely at the plants all around. I've loved finding patterns in their presence and absence and thinking about how to share that with guests."
Indian Paintbrush. BLM photo
If you go now:
Hobart Bluff: See a diversity of trees, which change with elevation/slope and sunlight. Many wildflowers, such as paintbrush and red columbine. Butterflies everywhere including California sisters and swallowtails.
Swallowtail. K Reynolds photo
Morgyn Ellis, Interpretive Ranger and Christine Beekman, BLM Interpretive Specialist contributed to this story.