California State Parks Ranger Tyson Butzke
Up Close and Personal
1. What is your most unique experience working in California State Parks?
One early summer day I was assisting in leading a kayak tour at Refugio State Beach with a group of 10 park visitors on kayaks. As we were padding around one of the kelp beds at Refugio Point a Grey Whale came to the surface and spouted about 25 yards from our group. The group was very excited to see a whale up close and personal. It provided a great talking point for the rest of the tour.
2. What is the biggest challenge that you want the public to understand about your profession?
I would like the public to understand that even though it is a time of unprecedented budget woes, we are still striving to give them the best camping/recreation/park experience around. They also need to know of the many hats that California State Park Peace Officers wear. We can go from a nature hike, right into a medical emergency call that goes right into a Law Enforcement Contact. We have to be good multi taskers.
3. Who or what inspired you to pursue this career?
My father-in-law Jeff Price is a retired Ranger, and even in the toughest times (Budget Drama in the 1990’s); he always showed how much he loved his career choice. His influence led me to take the test and become a Ranger cadet.
4. Is there something in your career that you would do differently if given the chance?
No. The choices I have made in my career have led me to the place I am in right now. I couldn’t be happier or in a better place.
5. Any particular parks that are on your dream list of workplaces?
In my mind I already work in my dream parks. I love Refugio, El Capitan, and Gaviota. They are places filled with great things to see and do. My co-workers and the park visitors are the best. I went to school in Sonoma County and one day (many years from now) I could see myself returning to the Sonoma/Marin area.