Hello from Flagstaff, AZ! Where to begin? Three weeks ago I graduated from a small liberal arts college in Minnesota. The following week was spent unpacking my college life and re-packing for the adventure in the southwest, a place I had never been. Phoenix’s 104 degree weather was a real treat as I stepped off the plane. However, I was headed north to beautiful “Flag”- and here I am in the Ponderosa Pine city! Highlights thus far include:

1. Abert’s squirrels- one of the funniest little creatures I’ve ever laid eyes on. At a first glance, I thought it was a rabbit. If you’ve never caught a glimpse of this squirrel-gone-rabbit critter you should google image it- they’re pretty funny.

2. Fires in Flagstaff- my first time witnessing a forest fire and I get to see three at once! Luckily it is now at 30% containment and people are able to return to their homes.

3. Forests intermixed with Lupine and Ponderosa- it is beautiful.

As many of you have noted, I have already learned a great deal and created everlasting memories. My mentor, Patty West, is wonderful and teaches me new things everyday- from seed collecting to ethno botany to the secrets of making curry sauces! I am so excited to meet you all in a few days at the Grand Canyon It should be a fantastic time! Hope all is well!

Rebecca Rand,  Seeds of Success Intern

Landsward Institute,  BLM,  Flagstaff, AZ