Staff Spotlight, Angela Watson
For the past nine years, Park Services Specialist Angela Watson has exemplified the motto “Ranger First!”
Growing up in South Florida, Angela Watson enjoyed all aspects of being outdoors, from hunting and fishing to camping and boating with her friends and family. When she moved to North Florida, it wasn’t long before a friend who was a park ranger encouraged Angela to apply. She jumped at the chance.
Starting out at Suwannee River State Park as an administrative assistant, she gained valuable exposure to all aspects of the job. Soon after, Angela made it a personal goal to become a park ranger.
In 2014, a park ranger position became available and she knew it was meant to be. At this point, she was already involved in the prescribed fire program, as well as assisting in interpretive programs — the promotion was a natural fit.
In fall 2016, Angela was promoted and moved to Madison Blue Spring State Park as the park services specialist where she oversaw and participated in several much needed park improvements.
During summer 2021, Angela moved to her current position as the park services specialist of Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State park. Angela enjoys the ever-changing atmosphere that a spring park provides. Year-round visitor service is at the forefront of all daily activity. She enjoys interacting with a wide array of visitors with different backgrounds and motivations for visiting the park.
Whether you come to picnic, swim or explore the underwater cave system, you’re sure to see Angela doing what she loves most — protecting this spectacular green space.
Angela enjoys making the connections between people and the park fun, and she delivers engaging interpretive programs that teach the importance of protecting the aquifer, not just for today, but for generations to come.