Hello everyone! My name is Kai Diaz. I am 20 years old and currently working as a Park Aid for California State Parks in Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park and recently graduated with an A.S. in Forestry.
I always felt a calling to the outdoors but was never able to explore my curiosity until high school. Living in the Central Valley, parks like Sequoia NP and Yosemite NP are my backyard. With this privilege, I was fortunate to go on trips to two National Parks near me. Through these events, I could share my story of being in Yosemite NP through a wonderful organization, NatureBridge. As of last month, I became their 2024 Student of the Year! While still a student, I attended events like the California Society of American Foresters Winter Meeting at Cal Poly Humboldt and the 2023 Society of American Foresters National Convention in Sacramento. Having opportunities to connect with people in the field was a wonderful way for me to learn about working for the State of California and the impact I could have.
From seeing firsthand the damage of climate change, I knew I wanted to be a part of the change. Becoming a Park Aid and working alongside Interpreters and Environmental Scientists, I make it my mission to help inform the public about the ecological destruction in our Central Valley parks. Whether it ranges from fires like one ongoing in Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area, high winds blowing away organic matter or topsoil, or wildlife fleeing in hopes of better living conditions, spreading my knowledge and love for outdoors, is something I wish to instill in everyone. Making a meaningful connection with the public is only the first step in developing an interest and, hopefully persuading people to join State Parks.
Working for California State Parks is the most influential way to give back to my community and help inspire others. There is nothing better than being able to work outdoors and knowing what I do matters.
Special thanks to NatureBridge, Friends of Allensworth, and California State Parks for supporting work like Kai’s.
