Focus on a ranger
Val Edmondson, Lake District National Park Ranger
Area covered:
Keswick, Above Derwent, St Johns in Vale, Keswick Railway Footpath.
How long have you been doing this?
17 years
How did you get into it?
Involved in field work on local farms, applied for estate worker's job initially and failed.
What has been your best day ever in the job?
Probably working with volunteers on a worthwhile task which has enhanced the area's wildlife and landscape for example planting a traditional hedge on farm land on a lovely day as part of the Sunday work party in March. Before discussion with the Ranger the farmer was intending erecting just a wire fence to divide his fields. By planting a hedge everyone is a winner.
What’s special about the Lake District National Park?
We still have red squirrels!
What are the best - and worst - parts of the job?
One of the best parts of the Ranger job is the huge variety of queries we have to deal with at the drop of a hat. One call could be someone reporting an obstructed path, the next could be a group of volunteers looking for a conservation task, then the old lady with a grey squirrel on her bird feeder concerned that her reds may become infected with the parapox virus.
Another highlight is involving a whole host of people to deliver a worthwhile task such as a river enhancement scheme. The various people involved could be the landowner, tenant, neighbouring landowner tenant , Environment Agency, Rural Development Service, English Nature for advice and external funding, Keswick Anglers to give practical advice and assistance, volunteers involved on work parties improving habitat management and contractors to do the fencing work.
The worst part of this job is the frustration. As a Ranger I am very closely involved with local communities through Parish Council’s local groups and through living here for over 40 years. I know what the people of this area want from their National Park Authority and it seems it is becoming increasingly difficult to deliver.
What is the most magical time of day?
Early morning, when the birds are singing and before anyone is around.
What advice would you give to someone who would like to become a ranger?
You must be able to multitask all at once!
Inspired?
Then check out our Current Vacancies or have a look at our volunteering section. You can also see vacancies for England's National Parks on the National Parks Portal (opens in new window).
