Park Ranger, Lauren Sheppard
Lauren Sheppard is a proud Florida native who grew up in the Naples area. She has always had the beauty of SW Florida at hand, but wanted to become involved in its preservation. After hearing of a volunteering opportunity from a friend working at Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park, she decided volunteering there would be a good way to get involved. That was more than ten years ago.
Lauren became a Park Ranger at Collier-Seminole State Park in May 2023, nine months after Hurricane Ian skirted Naples and Collier County. During this time Lauren took the initiative to learn new skills in vehicle maintenance and construction.
Lauren's previous experience includes working as a veterinary technician with animals. She also has experience in office administration and providing excellent customer service.
Administration, Maintenance, Protection, Resource Management, and Visitor Services are the Big 5 that encompass a park ranger's life.
Park Ranger Lauren Sheppard is assisting a park visitor at the Ranger Station.
While greeting and assisting park visitors with her gracious smile, she courteously registers campers at the ranger station.
Park Ranger Lauren Sheppard guiding a group for a First Day Hike.
You may see Lauren supporting the park at local events and festivals. January's annual First Day Hike on the Prairie Hammock Trail is very popular at Collier-Seminole. Hiking enthusiasts look forward to Lauren leading the group for the day's adventure.
Park Ranger Lauren Sheppard assisting with the construction of an ADA deck and ramp.
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Park Ranger Lauren Sheppard assisting with the construction of an ADA deck and ramp.
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Park Ranger Lauren Sheppard taking inventory of the firewood supply.
Park Ranger Lauren Sheppard in prescribed fire gear.
In the area of Resource Management, Lauren participates in the park's Prescribed Fire program. Prescribed fire is an important forest management tool that benefits forests and wildlife, while also helping to reduce the impact of wildfire hazards. Learning to identify native and non-native plants is also part of her resource management training.
Park Ranger Lauren Sheppard standing at the Barron Gift Collier Memorial.
In her spare time, Lauren enjoys hanging out with friends, hiking while exploring nature, and doing philanthropy.
Lauren says, "My future goals include continuing to develop my maintenance skills and continuing my education. I hope to one day attain a degree in biology and become an Environmental Specialist with the Florida Park Service.
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