Where is your favorite place on OSMP to take photos/monitor? This is a tough one! There are so many diverse and beautiful places on OSMP land. I have to say that I am partial to Mallory Cave after hiking there over 90 times. Every time is a different experience. We have been fortunate to have seen lots of wildlife on that hike - including falcons, tanagers, turkeys, foxes, coyotes, rattlesnakes, milk snakes, one cool owl, and a ringtail. Oh, and lots and lots of bats!
What brings you back to our One-Day Volunteer Projects during your busy workday? FOMO 😁. Seriously, these are such incredible experiences with the most amazing people. Recognizing familiar faces and learning how they got involved and what their passions are has really been inspiring. It is a privilege to be involved with each of these projects, and I learn so much at each one.
Is there anything that you learned from volunteering for us? YES! I am continuing to learn all of the ways that OSMP is dedicated to our community. From the value of grasslands, sustainable agriculture, forestry, wetlands, trail maintenance, etc. - these are all important to maintaining a balance between people and our lands. I have enjoyed learning about the Jr. Ranger program, Ready To Work crew, accessibility projects, and especially the importance of bats.
What else would you like to share? The respect and admiration I have for the OSMP land, staff, and volunteers has grown exponentially since I got involved. I would highly recommend that each person who enjoys recreating on OSMP land should spend a few hours a year giving back to these areas that we love. The more involved we are, the more care we will take to preserve these areas for future generations.
View our previous volunteer spotlight on Watershed School.