2017 Interagency Wilderness Ranger Academy (35187975020)

More than 150 wilderness rangers, new and seasoned veterans, from multiple agencies, gathered at the Tallac Historic Site in South Lake Tahoe, June 5-9, to be part of the 2017 Interagency Wilderness Ranger Academy, hosted by the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management and Society for Wilderness Stewardship. First year employees received classes on an overview of the Wilderness, cultural geography, ranger safety and public contacts, backpacking and ranger skills, personal risk management and self-care, black bears and archeology. Seasoned and returning rangers received refresher classes on emerging issues and management challenges, wilderness stewardship performance, working with the fire organization, reaching visitors before thet get to the trailhead and career navigation. Later in the week everyone had a chance to sign up for various hands-on instruction in a skill that interested them. Groups met in locations around the lake to work with experts in the field of wilderness first aid, Leave No Trace, stock orientation, crosscut saw and backcountry navigation using a map,compass and GPS. (USDA photo by Les Thomas)