Gratitude for the Wild: Reflections from The Wildlands Conservancy Team
As we celebrate the season of gratitude, we at The Wildlands Conservancy wanted to take a moment to reflect on the things that inspire our work and fill us with appreciation every day — nature, biodiversity, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Earth. Our employees, from regional land managers to educators to rangers, have a deep, personal connection to the wild places we protect, and each of us is thankful for something different — whether it's the peace found in a quiet forest, the thrill of seeing wildlife flourish, or the hope that comes from knowing our efforts contribute to a healthier planet. Below, some of our team members share their reflections and the things they are grateful for this season.
Gratitude for The Healing Power of Nature
"I’m grateful for the healing power of nature and the peace working outdoors has brought me over the past 10 years with The Wildlands Conservancy. I also cherish the meaningful connections I’ve made with both staff and visitors along the way."
–Daisy Carrillo, Preserve Manager
“Going from the chaos of modern society to the chorus and orchestra of nature allows oneself to reconnect with our senses. I'm grateful for how the simplest, and often most overlooked sounds can ground our senses.”
— Matt Thorp, Ranger
Gratitude for The Resilience of Biodiversity
"I’m deeply grateful for the chance to work with passionate colleagues to protect biodiversity across thousands of acres of wild landscapes. These spaces are crucial for preserving habitats that support diverse life, while also offering people a place to explore, learn, and connect with nature. This work gives me a strong sense of purpose, knowing we’re contributing to the lasting strength and beauty of our planet."
– John Trammell, Regional Director / Project Manager
“I am grateful for the resilience of biodiversity. We have an oak stand at Rana where an invasive species has completely choked out the understory. Over the past year, one dedicated individual and a small group of volunteers have worked tirelessly to free a few oaks from its grip. Within months, an endangered species nest appeared in the newly cleared space. This gives me hope that, with continued effort, the land can heal.”
— Kat Hardisty-Cranstone, Preserve Manager
Gratitude for The Beauty of Wild Landscapes
“I find the greatest beauty when I see children outdoors, and hear their laughter echoing within the canyon walls at Wind Wolves Preserve. Nothing is more beautiful to me.”
— Melissa Dabulamanzi, Regional Director
Gratitude for The Gift of Connection
"I'm grateful for the way our work brings people together—across languages, finances, and zip codes—to connect with each other and with nature. It’s inspiring to see curiosity spark and community grow through our interpretive programs, reminding us all of the shared joy of exploring the outdoors."
– Carolina Ruiz, Outdoor Education Coordinator
"When I go to work, I don’t step into the pristine untouchable wilderness that lives in the imagination of many, but a gathering place for faces old and new, that showcases the resilience of our community. This season, I’m grateful for the relationships that bring the preserve to life—whether it’s fungi communicating in underground networks or the dedicated team that makes our outdoor educational programs possible. May we continue to share the responsibility of protecting nature for future generations to enjoy."
— Katherine Dias, Naturalist
Hope for the Future
Amid the challenges we face with climate change, habitat loss, and biodiversity decline, many of our team members find hope in the work they do every day. There is gratitude in the belief that their efforts — whether it's restoring a riparian corridor, planting trees, or educating the public — are contributing to a brighter, more sustainable future for all living things.
As we continue to celebrate this season of gratitude, we invite you to pause and appreciate the natural world around you. Whether it's the serenity of a quiet forest, the thrill of a wildlife encounter, or the joy of knowing you're part of a larger conservation movement, there is always something to be grateful for. At Wildlands, we are honored to protect the wild places that nourish our spirits and sustain the planet.
This season, consider how you can give back — whether through a donation, a volunteer opportunity, or simply taking time to connect with the beauty of the Earth. Together, we can ensure that future generations experience the same awe and gratitude for nature that we do today.
Thank you for being a part of this journey with us.