Park Leaders Show : Park Ranger | National Park | State Park | Leadership

  "Focus on common objectives and goals, you can get to where you want to be without being divisive." When people first enter the world of park management, they don't expect to be involved in politics. Yet, as time goes on it's not uncommon to find yourself at the center of political discussions on issues like land use and resource management. It is important to focus on governance rather than personal politics. Politics affects everyone in parks, from park rangers to directors. Parks are deeply intertwined with politics at every level. The higher up in the system, the more one has to understand who they work for. Phil and I have found that it is best to navigate these situations by focusing on the core values of stewardship and service. It is important to stay true to your core values as a park person and have a strong ethical background. Compromise is critical when dealing with people of different ideas. It is also important to not lose sight of the primary responsibility – the preservation of the parks und