Park Newsletter May 23, 2008

One of Olympic's education rangers helps a visitor plan her trip along the park's wilderness coast.

 

Memorial Day Weekend
Though signs of storm damage are evident throughout the park, Olympic's roads and campgrounds are open for visitors this weekend.

Most low elevation trails are open and have been cleared of downed trees. But even at low elevations, hikers are urged to use caution and to be prepared for downed trees, areas of trail damage, and high, swift creek crossings, along with changeable weather conditions.

All hikers are urged to check with the park's Wilderness Information Center for the latest safety and trail condition reports.

Read the complete news release.

 

Campfires are a tradition for many park visitors.

Campground Firewood Vendors Sought
Olympic National Park is seeking persons or groups to supply dry firewood for the next two years in several of the park’s campgrounds, including Heart O’the Hills, Altair, Elwha and Deer Park and Mora campground. Two Commercial Use Authorizations (CUAs) will be issued; one will include the four campgrounds in the Port Angeles area while a second will cover the Mora campground.

More information, including contact information for requesting a CUA application.

 

Michael Smithson poses with "Flat Stanley" before sending him on to his next destination.

Michael Smithson to Retire
Michael Smithson, chief of resource education at Olympic National Park, is retiring on June 2, after more than 30 years of service.

Michael started his career at Rocky Mountain National Park in 1978 and became a ranger-naturalist there in 1981. He started interpretive horse patrols, roamed many park trails on horseback and was the first paralyzed individual to climb the 14,255’ Longs Peak.

Michael and his family moved to Olympic National Park in 1988 when he accepted the position of Assistant Chief Naturalist. In 1994, he became the park's Chief of Resource Education, a position he has held since.

In his time at Olympic, Michael has worked tirelessly to serve park visitors. Quick to embrace new ways of teaching and involving visitors, Michael spearheaded the development of many new programs, exhibits and publications.

Michael was the 2004 recipient of the National Park Service's Sequoia Award, which recognizes individuals whose efforts have had a sustained, positive impact on the profession of interpretation.

Michael is looking forward to having more time to explore the park and work with his hands -- illustrating, carving and making music.

Always a champion of interpretation, park visitors and his staff, Michael will be deeply missed.