News Release

Meet the New Superintendent on June 9th

Date: May 15, 2018

Kimberly, Oregon- John Day Fossil Beds National Monument will be hosting a public open house for the community to welcome new Superintendent, Patrick Gamman. This event will take place at the James Cant Ranch on June 9th from noon until 3 pm.

The Cant Ranch is located in the Sheep Rock Unit of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and is an intact example of a successful, early 20th century ranch within the John Day River Valley.

“I am very excited to talk with members of the community and I look forward to working with the John Day Valley to help showcase the uniqueness of rural Eastern Oregon,” said Superintendent Patrick Gamman. 

An Oregon native, Gamman graduated from the University of Oregon with a degree in geology. He takes every opportunity to enjoy the outdoors – kayaking, hiking, and horseback riding – with his wife, JoAnne, who also works for the National Park Service. Gamman is a National Park Service veteran with more than 18 years of experience. He most recently served as Chief of interpretation and education at Padre Island National Seashore in Texas.  

In addition to meeting the Superintendent, visit the James Cant building, observe carding and spinning wool demonstrations, and tour the grounds with a park ranger. The one-hour, quarter of a mile ground tours will be offered at 12:30 and 2:00 and will occur on mostly level ground. Although light refreshments will be provided, bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the shade underneath the trees.