I have a strong memory of sitting under pine trees on a summer evening as an Ontario Ranger, feeling deeply at home in the wilderness, and astonished at my new found strength to portage and clear brush.  

I spent the next few years working in provincial parks across Ontario as a natural heritage educator, and have pursued a career in the environmental sector over the last 13 years. I am currently an employee at Environment Canada, on leave to complete a Masters of Science in rural planning and development. I can trace the motivations for this career path directly to my summer as a ranger.

I want to express my sadness at the decision to cancel the Ontario Ranger Program. I urge the government to maintain funding for this unique program, as it provides invaluable support to young adults.
 
In my experience, it offered a much needed respite, and a supported place away from constant technology, to develop my own interests and broaden my understanding of what I could offer as a young Canadian.