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The skill set for a park ranger needs to be both comprehensive and varied. Bloomsburg University junior-to-be Sarah Buckley is learning firsthand this summer about all of the skills needed as an intern with the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) at Black Moshannon State Park in Centre County.

Buckley, a biology major in the natural history option and geosciences minor, has learned a lot in her time as an intern.

“This (internship) has helped me develop skills to add to my professional toolbox,” says Buckley. “For example, this summer I learned how to back up a boat trailer and drive a boat, perform park inspections, and create original educational materials— all important skills when working in a state park.”

“Perhaps most importantly, I learned how the state park system works,” said Buckley. “I’ve learned and gained experience with nearly every position in the park— the environmental education staff, DCNR rangers, park manager, clerk typist, maintenance workers, and more. They all play a vital role in the inner workings of any state park, and I even found my own role in the workings at Black Moshannon.”

So what made Buckley look at an internship with the DCNR?

“I’ve always enjoyed learning about the environment, having competed in the Chester County Envirothon for 10 years,” Buckley continued. “During my time in Envirothon, I found my passion for teaching others about the outdoors and what we have living right here in our backyard.”

After graduation in 2021, Buckley is not sure what she’ll end up doing, but this internship has helped her get things in focus.

“I’m not 100 percent sure what I want to do after I graduate in two years, but this internship has me seriously considering a career in Pennsylvania state parks.”