“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.
Jeff’s dedication to the field of park leadership spans decades. His career has taken him through various roles and agencies, from the US Forest Service to the National Park Service. He shares how he began his work after uncovering the untold story of a ranger killed back in 1927. That eventually lead to the creation of an international Honor Roll and the initiation of World Ranger Day.
The Honor Roll is a way of recognizing park rangers who have died in the line of duty. This work has brought the sacrifices of park rangers to light. It has even lead to global collaboration and been recognized at events like the World Ranger Congress.
In 2005, Jeff initiated World Ranger Day. This has become an annual event that honors rangers worldwide, including those lost in the previous year. The honor Roll and World Ranger Day have helped put a spotlight on the profession’s hazards and the heroes behind it. The work Jeff is committed to has helped make sure that fallen rangers are remembered and honored appropriately.
Park rangers face significant risks, from poachers in Africa to environmental hazards in the U.S. Despite these dangers, the role of park rangers remains vital for protecting our natural and cultural heritage. That is why networking and continued education for park leaders are crucial for advancement in the park services. Professional networks like Association of National Park Rangers (ANPR) and Park Rangers Association of California (PRAC) provide invaluable connections and learning experiences.
Jeff’s story is a great example of the importance of staying engaged with our professional communities and remembering the deeper purpose behind our roles. His advice for future park leaders is spot on: stay educated, build your network, and never forget those who paved the way.
Make sure to listen to this episode for more on the impact of his work. Check out ANPR and PRAC using the links below to see how you can get connected and support the important work of park rangers.
Resources
Association of National Park Rangers
Park Rangers Association of California
https://parkleaders.com/about/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/