Author: Anna Medlin
Throughout my first semester of graduate school at the University of Idaho, I have had the privilege to meet many individuals within the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) and see where they work!
Back in September 2023, I was able to drive down to East Idaho to visit Harriman State Park, Henry’s Lake State Park, and the Ashton-Tetonia Trail. My team and I got to stay at the Laura Clarke Scvel Education Center and wake up to the sounds of Elk bugling. During this fieldwork trip, I got to meet with the staff at all three state parks to discuss my upcoming research project concerning interpretive theme development within IDPR. I was introduced to the park manager of Harriman/Ashton-Tetonia Jess Brumfield and rangers Kyle Babbitt and Abigail Rossman. It was lovely to be able to discuss my research ideas and receive support from the agency. There is a lot of excitement within the agency to devote energy to supporting interpretation. On our way back to the Moscow Campus, we also stopped at The Land of The Yankee Fork State Park to meet up with park manager Ron Jenks. During our time in the park, we got to explore the visitor center and the park’s new addition the Challis Hot Springs. The hot springs are so beautiful, and I would love to return someday.
Along our drive between park sites, we were able to make a pitstop at Mesa Falls, a park site that is co-managed by IDPR and The U.S. Forest Service.
In addition to the wonderful experience, I had meeting IDPR individuals within the East Region, I was also able to attend IDPR’s annual Interpretation Meeting at Dworshak State Park in October 2023. During this meeting, I was able to sit and hear about all the amazing work that is occurring in IDPR regarding interpretation. Then, I got the opportunity to discuss my research with the 11 interpretive staff. I used this opportunity to have the team provide insight on park selection for my interpretive theme development thesis. I was able to solidify my list of parks for my study and contact park management for each park shortly after this meeting! I want to thank Chelsea Chambers, IDPR’s Public Information Specialist, for allowing me to be a guest at the interpretation meeting.
Overall, it has been an experience connecting with the lovely people within IDPR. Being able to meet the passionate people who support Idaho State Parks and experience visiting a handful of the parks has benefited my research design process. I am excited to continue to work with this agency in the future related to my thesis work!
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