Earth Systems Science, Inc.

Expo Rangers Hit the Trail for SAMO NRA PLC

Jan 18, 2003

The Expo Ranger Core Team hit the trail for the Public Land Corps (PLC) grant in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SAMO NRA). The group met with Jim Anderson of the SAMO vegetation mapping group at the Rising Sun Trailhead in Solstice Canyon.

The Core Team members (in alphabetic order: Andrew Anderson, Tatsunori Ikeda, Gregory and Saifon Lee, Juan Martinez, Patrick McCullough, Dennis Phillips, Alex and Erika Rodriquez) learned a modified UTAP (Universal Trail Assessment Procedure) methods. The basic measurements involved trail distance (using a rolatape), trail grade (using a clinometer), trail cross-slope (using a digital smart level). The SAMO data sheets require logging trail surface descriptions and various features using standardized ID codes.

The Core Team members will undergo addition field training before starting to train other volunteers. This training process uses the ESSI community-based education model with teach backs. Each participant learns the practical job skills by direct interative hands-on field training. They are required to teach what they learn by assisting in the training of other volunteers.

This PLC grant was proposed as a pilot project to implement the NPCA Cultural Diversity program along the lines of the very successful LACP Jr. Ranger Pilot program co-led by Patrick McCullough and Gregory Lee. The curriculum for that program, developed by Lee, included elements of job preparation and academics combined with direct field observation and experience. Participants were urban youth interested in being exposed to outdoor environmental career opportunities.

Photos by S. Lee
Copyright 2003, ESSI. All rights reserved.