Current Position: Volunteer. I conduct research on the species of moths that live in Oliver Lee Memorial State Park. I give presentations about insects for the public when requested by the State Park. In 2006 I consulted with Steven J. Cary on the bioblitz at Sugarite State Park.
How long have you been with New Mexico State Parks?
I started in 2006; the year 2007 completes my second year.
How did you become interested in volunteering for New Mexico State Parks?
I retired from Ohio Department of Natural Resources in 1996. In 2005 I was inducted into the Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame for promoting insects as a natural resource. In 2005 I relocated to New
Mexico. I studied moths for more than 40 years. Based on my 31 years of service with Ohio DNR, I feel a need to volunteer for natural resources related issues. I'm very happy to contribute my expertise to New Mexico State Parks.
Describe a typical day at your job.
(If there is no such thing as a typical day, then please tell us about your primary responsibilities and duties.)
My day begins when I collect samples of insects at the state park. I then spend the next several weeks preparing the specimens, identifying the specimens, dissecting the specimens, and collaborating with other entomologists. For the public speaking, I explain my research to the general public, and I discuss the importance of insects in the natural world.
How many hours a week do you volunteer in this position?
One or two hours a week.
What aspects of your job do you enjoy the most?
All of it.
What do you find to be the greatest challenges of your job?
Find the time to prepare and process all the specimens that I obtain when I collect samples.
What kind of training/schooling is required in your position?
Expertise in entomology, and in my case, Lepidoptera.
Is there any kind of training or general experience that you wish you had before taking your job?
No. My expertise is pretty specialized. I have more than 40 years experience.
What are a few of the projects that you've been working on recently that have been the most interesting?
I'm trying to collect samples of moths in different habitats within the Park. I want to learn which species of moths inhabit which habitats. I love to speak to the public about insects.
If someone were interested in working in your position, what advice could you give them?
Learn as much as possible about the subject. Spend a lot of time collaborating with other people with common interests. Join groups. Participate in the chosen subject.
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