Don’t under estimate the importance of YOU!

[EnergySaverMember]

While reading the assorted Q&A’s regarding the upcoming WGA elections, I see the issue of WGA involvement with the DNR … let me say I’m a very non-political / non-confrontational type person and make the following comments with regards to “doing what’s right and logical” and with no regard or concern to who’s running for WGA offices.
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While it’s obviously important that the WGA represents geocaching in Wisconsin in general and with regards to potential DNR policies, I still feel the best light can be shined on geocaching to the DNR by the actions of the individual geocacher.

Be up front, be open to the Rangers/DNRs viewpoint and be respectful. In planning for the picnic that will be held at Harrington Beach in April, I feel privileged to be working with the property manager / head ranger at the park. When it comes to asking someone if I can do something, I’m very uncomfortable doing so, but I bit the bullet for the good of geocaching (I guess it’s the “loner” in me) … and it has been a very rewarding experience. Being very specific and out in the open, has I believe been a positive experience for both myself and the ranger. In fact, we planned a meeting so that I could show him all my hide locations, but Ranger Krueger decided we should just discuss the event in his office, because he’s hoping to be “off duty” that day to “join in the fun” … how much more of a positive outcome could you expect than that. We agreed upon some logical limitations and beyond that we’ve been granted complete freedom in the park. I’ve even been clued in to a couple of great “secret spots” that only park rangers would know about. As a thank you, Ranger Krueger now has a 2005 Geocaching Calendar hanging over his desk. I am hoping to gain a new geocaching friend in my area, that’s something that will last a lot longer than a one day event.

In summary, the best way to gain acceptance and comfort in the State Parks is to form one-on-one friendships with those that have responsibility with for our fine park facilities in Wisconsin. Don’t wait for the WGA board to do it for you.

[RayParticipant]

I will second that!

Bravo for a job well done, Ron.
We have found from our experiences with land managers that more often than not, they welcome our activities. One should not have any fear of aproaching them.

Kudos again.

[kbrabandParticipant]

Excellent post, Ron. I agree with you that forming those one-on-one relationships is very important. Grass roots efforts such as yours are one important aspect of our complete “campaign” to earn the acceptance and cooperation of park managers and their bosses. While individual geocachers can work with managers from the bottom up, the WGA board will continue to work on a state level from the top down. We should all have the same goal — to ensure a long-term and fun future for geocaching.

[Ms. WISearcherMember]

I agree!!! I remember my first encounter with the park managers. I was sooooo intimidated and scared (yes, I hate to admit it, but it’s true). After meeting with the manager my whole opinion changed…they are just people too. It has been a great experience working with them…for both parties involved!!!

Keep up the hard and important work!
Rhonda

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