My first two weeks have been nothing but amazing! I have learned so much about the different tree species and how to identify them. Not going to lie, I was a little bit confused at first, but I am getting the hang of it! I am starting to feel more confident around the equipment, and I enjoy explaining my work to visitors. I have visited so many places around the George Washington Memorial Parkway but still have not been to all the sites! This park is huge and full of opportunities and activities for everyone.

This sculpture of Theodore Roosevelt is at the plaza in Theodore Roosevelt Island.

I joined a Lunch and Learn for the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and I learned so much about their culture. We ended the lunch by learning yoga steps, and we even danced salsa! I also got the opportunity to join my supervisor and her coworkers on a Cultural Landscape Inventory update at Theodore Roosevelt Island, Fort Macy, and Turkey Run.  It was amazing to see how much work they get done and the places they get to work at.

Part of the mammals exhibition at the Smithsonian Natural History Musuem

During my free time, I visited the Smithsonian Natural History Museum, the Constitution Gardens, the Lincoln Memorial, and a few other places around DC. Living around the area has its perks, and I am trying to enjoy them all!

Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial

During the week, I have been learning how to use the identification guides and the instrumentation. I started doing the tree inventory at Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial. After finishing that site, I moved to Arlington Ridge Park! I also got to visit Great Falls Park, and I will be back for sure. Stay tuned to learn more about my project in these sites!

[ Great Falls Park