After what seemed like an eternity
of struggle and disappointment along the path to gain permanent status, joining fundamentals was a *woosh* breath of fresh air and infusion of passion. I learned I wasn’t alone - in the roller coaster to permanency, nor alone in my dedication to service and the Service. Hearing from different positions, divisions, parks, and regions than my own helped me see how my role fit in the larger Service, but also ways we could work together better - leverage the greatest asset of the Service - our staff - to achieve our mission.
It was recommended (but not required) to watch “In Effigy” ahead of time and that provoked some fantastic discussions around other compromising situations we may have each observed. Laws and policies that may not have been adequately communicated or enforced. How protecting resources and enforcing laws requires intentional action … either good or bad. The failures that occurred at EFMO were the result of intentional actions. The failures we saw at our own sites were, more often than not, the result of intentional actions. That was empowering - we could, by result of our individual and collective actions - make a difference. EFMO was brought to light (and the story highlighted and told) due to the actions of a few. Each of us had the power to play the role of the “few”.
As a scientist, one of the most memorable experiences at HOAL was taking a trip to the portion of the rim that holds the last remaining specimens of the sentry milk-vetch. Observing in the wild - an incredibly rare species that few ever see or get to know - and knowing that the actions of park staff are why this species exists on Earth today - was humbling. It was a tangible reminder that these places we safeguard are special. They house unique resources - natural, historical, tribal, and cultural - and we are lucky enough to get to be their guardians. I don’t know the numbers, but this is far from the only endemic species that is found only on national park lands. GRCA alone boasts at least a dozen.
It was especially lovely to meet individuals who worked in roles and parks so different than my own - to learn about programs I frankly hadn’t known existed within the Service. So much good work being done. Working in a WASO and regional office, my experience at Fundamentals became all the more important - how would I be able to support and advocate for parks and programs whom I was unfamiliar with? Fundamentals opened the doors to better understand and connect with those resources and their staff.
—NBT