Hello, and thanks for reading! It has been a very busy few weeks since I started as the UCSS Program Coordinator. First, I want to give a huge shout out to Rachel Blumhardt, who continues to keep the program barreling down the tracks while also somehow finding the time to help me find my footing. Thanks Rachel! You are the best. 

I am so excited about this new opportunity to work with all of you as we continue to protect Utah’s cultural resources. My background includes a degree in Zoology, time with the National Park Service, Utah Division of Natural Resources, the rock climbing industry, and most recently two years with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) on the communications team. I prioritize open communication and look forward to getting to know all of you over time. Please don’t hesitate to reach out at any time regarding UCSS business, or just to say hello. 

As we look toward the future, I am excited to find new opportunities to grow the stewardship program and to support those stewards already on board. We have over 500 amazing site stewards who contribute their own time and resources to help protect Utah’s cultural heritage and over 100 people on the waiting list excited to be trained. While we expand, I am deeply committed to investing in our existing, hardworking volunteers. We are brainstorming some new ideas to do just that, including specialized virtual trainings, a dedicated steward website to centralize educational assets, and more regional, in-person gatherings with our partner agencies. 

Thank you all for supporting Utah’s history and heritage. I look forward to supporting you in return.

With gratitude, 

Chris McFarland