My Park Story: Alexandra Sines

Alex spent time teaching visitors about citizen science at Junior Ranger Challenges.

NPS/Elena De Marco

Where are you from? What was your pathway to the National Park Service?

My name is Alexandra Sines. I am serving in the AmeriCorps VISTA program, stationed at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. I grew up in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. I have a bachelor’s degree in environmental geography with a minor in biology. Currently, I am finishing a master’s degree in environmental studies.

As a kid, I was always outdoorsy, exploring wooded areas and climbing trees near my home to take a break from my large family. Our family would hike and camp in state parks across Ohio. I was always drawn to the national parks. A high school trip to Crater Lake National Park cemented my love for them and sparked a desire to pursue an environmental career. Working here in Cuyahoga Valley National Park has given me a golden opportunity to pursue my passions personally and professionally.

Alexandra worked with students on their vole study through the winter and spring.

NPS/Alexandra Sines

What is your main project?

I am primarily supporting a project funded by the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF). I collaborate with staff at the Cuyahoga Valley Environmental Education Center , the Volunteer Management office, and a local community partner to bring students from Greater Cleveland to the national park to do citizen science. Our research centers around the dietary preferences of voles. These rodents threaten the park’s reforestation efforts by nibbling the bark at the base of newly planted trees. This sometimes kills the young trees. During the study, students planted 60 trees of 12 native species and monitored them for vole damage to see if the voles preferred some over others. The results of our research will help plan future tree plantings. In addition to tree monitoring and data analysis, students also explored nature through fun hikes and activities.

Alex helped with the Dragonfly Mercury Project, teaching others how to collect dragonfly larva.

NPS/Alexandra Sines

Outside of my main project, I have been helping with day programs and Junior Ranger Challenges offered by the Cuyahoga Valley Environmental Education Center. I’ve also assisted the Volunteer Management Office with service learning and invasive species removal programs.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

Through my time here at Cuyahoga Valley, I’ve learned a lot about interpretation, education, and stewardship. However, the best part of my job is the people I meet. It’s been a dream working with people in different departments and interacting with visitors and students. To me, it is extremely rewarding to help people in their park journey. Seeing students who may not have the opportunity to visit parks and green spaces come here, enjoy themselves, learn new things, and make personal connections is truly magical!