Discovering Diversity in the Outdoors with Park Ranger Leigh Gardner
Nestled high on the rafters of an old barn, Leigh Gardner sat with a bunch of kids watching the sunset over the Tennessee hills.
“You know, I’ve never seen anything as beautiful as this in my life,” Gardner recalls a young girl saying.
It’s an admission and memory that has stuck with Gardner, who was working as a volunteer with the Tennessee Wildlife Federation.
“When you live in the inner city, there are buildings all around, you don’t [always] see the sunset,” she says. “So it’s something as simple as that, that people don’t really recognize it should be a right but is really a privilege to be able to see something like that.”
Gardner’s Journey into the Outdoors
Gardner’s love of the outdoors began in Girls Scouts. The Franklin, Tennessee, native spent her summer months horseback riding, canoeing, hiking, and learning archery. As she got older, the organization introduced Gardner to various volunteer organizations that also involved the outdoors. Consequently, she was hooked.
Life as a Park Ranger
Gardner’s dreams were realized when she became a full-time park ranger at Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park in Manchester, Tennessee. For the last three-and-a-half years, Gardner’s admiration of the outdoors and desire to make it a haven for everyone continues.
As a park ranger, Gardner’s primary goal is to ensure the safety of visitors. She enforces the rules and regulations of Tennessee state parks and natural areas. Additionally, Gardner leads guided tours through Old Stone Fort, enhancing the visitor experience.
Leigh Gardner expresses, “When I started as a park ranger, I was the only Black female park ranger, and there were very few Black park rangers in total within the state. Being a person of color in this role allows me to inspire children who may not have previously considered being a park ranger as an option due to lack of representation.”
Importance of Diversity in Parks
Why is it important to have diversity among park rangers?
It’s crucial for visitors to see someone who looks like them in outdoor spaces. This recognition fosters a sense of place and belonging, which is vital when exploring state parks. The visibility of diverse rangers can significantly impact communities and encourage a connection to nature.
What can be done to make parks more inclusive?
Parks must be welcoming to everyone. Many Tennessee parks are increasing ADA compliance to ensure accessibility for all individuals. The greater the representation of different races, body types, and backgrounds in outdoor settings, the more likely people are to visit and enjoy nature.
Seasonal Tips for Visiting State Parks
As autumn approaches, we encourage adherence to leave-no-trace principles. It is essential to check the weather before your visit and dress appropriately for cooler temperatures. Additionally, experiencing state parks in multiple seasons is highly recommended. Tennessee’s autumn brings beautiful colors, and winter presents unique scenery as well.
What Makes Old Stone Fort Special?
Old Stone Fort is renowned for its central location between Nashville and Chattanooga, making it a popular meeting spot for families and friends. Additionally, visitors can enjoy two rivers, three waterfalls, and nearly 2000 years of history within a short trail.
Looking Ahead
As more individuals engage with Tennessee state parks, it is likely they will continue to seek outdoor experiences. The pandemic has sparked increased awareness of the beautiful spaces available nearby, and with so many activities to explore, such as hiking and canoeing, outdoor adventures will remain an exciting option for many.
