I SPEAK GEOLOGY: A SUMMER AS AN INTERPRETIVE SPECIALIST AT MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK

Mount Rainier sits 54 miles southeast of Seattle, making a prominent backdrop for the metro's 3.5 million residents. The mountain's location makes it a popular recreation destination, receiving over 1 million visitors each year despite heavy snow closing much of the park every winter. Geocorps works in collaboration with the National Park Service's Geoscientists-in-the-Parks program to place geologists in both research and interpretive positions. An interpretive specialist's job is to take complex concepts and present them to the general public in an engaging way.

Geologists are essential for sharing Mount Rainier's exciting volcanic story. Rainier was selected as one of 17 "decade volcanoes" identified by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior for its history of large, destructive eruptions and proximity to a large population. The mountain, though plaintive during historical time, presents a serious hazard for those living on its flanks. Rainier's 36 square miles (93 km²) of glacial ice are a reminder of a past replete with catastrophic lahars, such as the Osceola Mudflow 5,600 years ago. A history of massive mudflows and spewing lava provides ample fodder for geology-themed programs.

Geocorps participants working at Mount Rainier National Park as interpretative specialists are expected to perform all the duties of an interpretive park ranger, complementing the team members' diverse backgrounds with knowledge of geologic concepts. Duties include developing an evening program presented in the park's campgrounds, guided walks, Junior Ranger activities aimed at children ages 6-11, as well as informal interactions out on the trails. Mount Rainier presents some unique challenges to interpretive staff. For example, 97% of the park is designated as wilderness. The adventure and beauty afforded by Rainier's backcountry trails comes at the price of isolation and danger. Staff works to take visitors' questions about missing persons and accidents in the park and turn them into interpretive opportunities. In addition to a unique look into the inner workings of the Park Service, the interpretative specialist position also provides valuable training in education techniques and real-world experience in teaching in an informal environment.