ALASKA—Two former British park rangers, Kate Dziubinska and Charlie Winchester, are currently on a conservation journey in Alaska. Their unique perspective on land management work and their experiences in the small town of Wrangell are truly inspiring.

Usually, when most people think of vacation, work is not the first thing that comes to mind. However, for Dziubinska and Winchester, their work is the reason for their vacation.

As former park rangers in Britain, they are on a multi-country tour to learn about conservation efforts in different parts of the world. Their journey has taken them to various locations, including the Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness Area of Superior National Forest in Minnesota, Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, Volcanoes National Park in Hawai’i and the High Uintas Wilderness Area of Ashley National Forest in Utah.

A desire to extend their time in the U.S. led them to Wrangell, Alaska, where they are currently volunteering with the Wrangell Ranger District. Both are maintaining and cleaning up campsites, performing cabin maintenance and helping with trail work. Additionally, they are collaborating with archaeologists on a monitoring and survey project and with wildlife staff focusing on vegetation surveys, invasive species control and fisheries ecology.

What sets the pair’s experience apart is their perspective on the differences between conservation practices in the U.K. and the U.S. They are fascinated by the vast landscapes in America, which allow for the protection of entire watersheds and ecosystems. In contrast, the fragmented landscape in the U.K. poses challenges for similar conservation efforts.

Wrangell is leaving a lasting impression on the pair with its strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere. Dziubinska and Winchester report being amazed by the willingness of people to help each other and the opportunity to learn different approaches to wilderness conservation.
So far, their enthusiasm and passion for their work is shining through their experiences.