Editors note: Jimmy Pardo and Mackenzie Baxter began their season last week at the Barlow Ranger District.  For the next 14 weeks they’ll get a feet first introduction to the Badger Creek Wilderness as they open the trails.  Read on to learn more about our two Mt. Hood Wilderness Rangers.

Mackenzie Baxter

I recently graduated from Portland State University with a degree in Environmental Science and have worked with PSU’s Outdoor Program for several years as a trip leader. Being from the beautiful town of Hood River, Oregon in the Pacific Northwest has spurred a passion for the plants and wildlife of the area for me, and I couldn’t be more excited to be working with the Mt. Adams Institute and the Forest Service this summer!

Jimmy Pardo

Greetings! I am honored to introduce myself as a new member of the Mt. Adams Institute. It has been a lifelong dream to protect, maintain, and extend our world’s natural places. I had no idea that I would have the great privilege of filling that purpose in the Pacific Northwest — in my opinion, one of the most beautiful regions in all the world. It has been a fairly long road up to this point. Working in Yosemite, Grand Canyon, and Zion National Park was more than enough for anyone to fall head-over-heels in love with the natural world. For me the paved road has ended and there is only trail as far as the eye can see. I hope through our work, photos, and stories you will be inspired to join us in preserving, extending, and maintaining these vital places for all to experience.