"Take care of nature, and nature will take care of you." - Ranger B
About the Park
Usery Mountain Regional Park is a beautiful desert park. The entrance of the park features Usery Mountain Nature Center. It is off to the right as you first enter. After passing the center there is a paid entrance fee. Vehicle entry fee is $7 dollars and $2 for just walking, bike, or equestrian access.
Park Ranger Q&A with Ranger B
Q: What are the common wildlife in the area? Any unique animal stories?
A: Some of the common wildlife include lizards, snakes, desert tortoises, javelinas, coyotes, mule deer, foxes, skunks, squirrels, and rabbits. However, most of them are dawn & dusk active. As for animal stories, roadrunners are funny and weird. Once I was teaching a class about roadrunners, and one came up to the back window and just looked in. Another time, I was leading some kids through a trail and a roadrunner stopped right in front of us and started squawking.
Q: If someone had never been to the park before, what advice would you give them?
A: I would talk about the beauty of the park. There are bike and hike opportunities and many different trails (there are 22 trails, 30 miles of hiking in all).
Q: What are some common injuries from being in the outdoors? How can we better prepare for them?
A: Planning ahead! Follow the leave no trace motto. Water is always important in Arizona desert climate. Make sure to be aware of your surroundings and to stay on the trails. Not staying on trails can not only hurt you, but also the local wildlife. Be sure to dress for success (bring appropriate clothes). Bringing some sort of way to communicate with others is important in case you get in a bad situation. Technology can often fail, so bringing a map and compass can be helpful. Avoid going on hikes in the heat of the day.
Q: Any Favorite outdoor apps?
A: Alltrails.com includes tons of hiking trails around the USA. Trails are rated by other users on the app, so you know what you're getting into.
Q: Any nonessential items that would be good on the trails?
A: Snacks, guidebooks, and cameras can all nice. However, try to leave as much tech as you can behind.
Q: What is the worst weather you have seen on the job?
A: Lightning storms can be frightening. Lightning can go off right next to you, which can be startling.
Q: What are the responsibilities of a park ranger?
A: Depends on type. Law Enforcement Rangers enforce laws (as their name suggests). Medical Rangers help with any medical emergencies. Interpretive Rangers work on education and guided hikes.
Links:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9Ki6DuOlGs&list=PL8E47DF595062671B&index=5 - Ranger B explaining the Wind Cave Trail hike.