Park Ranger: Main Duties and Responsibilities (01:44)

FREE PREVIEW

Kevin Dials is the superintendent of Kanawha State Forest. His duties include project planning, supervising employees, and protecting public and natural resources.

Park Ranger: Career Beginnings (01:47)

Dials majored in parks and leisure services at Marshall University. He gained experience in summer positions and a naturalist training workshop on his way to becoming superintendent of Kanawha State Forest.

Park Ranger: Keys for Success (01:16)

Someone considering a career in this profession should compare the income and long hours to the sacrifices of living in the area and the demands of the job.

Park Ranger: Education and Certification Requirements (02:45)

Dials cites standard training and possible additional courses. Rangers must have a basic knowledge of nature to answer questions by the public.

Park Ranger: Workplace Atmosphere (02:14)

Weather, park events, and seasons affect Dials' job; no two days are alike. He spends time in his office for purchasing and facility improvement planning.

Park Ranger: Advice for Aspiring Pros (00:58)

Volunteer at a local state park or forest. Ask the superintendent about the job of park ranger.

Park Ranger: A Day on the Job (02:39)

Dials begins and ends each day with a park inspection. Some of his duties include meeting with staff to address concerns, returning messages, and depositing the previous day's revenue.

Park Ranger: Industry Goals and Services (01:13)

State parks and forests are operating more like businesses. To remain competitive, the Kanawha State Forest is upgrading campgrounds.

Park Ranger: Industry Challenges (01:04)

Funding for public recreation is a low government priority. Dials talks about non-profit foundations and creative ways to fund on-the-job training.

Park Ranger: Looking at the Future (01:06)

Dials believes support from the public and state lawmakers will keep parks and recreation areas in operation.