World Ranger Day

World Ranger Day is not dedicated to all rangers, of which there are a huge number in America, but to a specific category – park rangers. So, July 31 is a great occasion to celebrate the important work of park rangers. These are the unsung heroes who do their best to save the land, as well as America’s wildlife. Pay tribute to the rangers who died in the line of duty as their work makes them look danger in the eye.

History

World Ranger Day was founded by renowned conservationist and documentary filmmaker Sean Willmore. In 2004, he noticed the work of park rangers was underestimated, and decided to make a film where he talked about the dangers rangers face on a daily basis. He interviewed caretakers in 23 countries throughout the year, listening to their stories. His documentary was called The Thin Green Line, and the picture was seen in 50 countries. Since then, the attitude towards rangers has changed.

In America, the International Ranger Federation was founded in 1992, providing assistance to the families of rangers who died or were seriously injured in their work. The holiday was first in 2007, coinciding with the fifteenth anniversary of the International Ranger Federation.

Interesting Facts

• Primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall promotes World Ranger Day and draws attention in every possible way to the dangerous and important work of park rangers.
• Rangers serve as employees of many organizations – law enforcement, historians, and environmentalists.
• Park rangers are the first line of defense for wildlife, park ecosystems, and natural resources from poachers, smugglers, fires, and other hazards.
• It is the rangers who are first called to the scene, where they can be injured or even die.

How to Take Part

Commemorate the rangers who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty, numbering over 1,000 since 2009. Talk about the holiday on social networks, encourage subscribers to join the celebration, and learn more about their work. The website of the International Ranger Federation has a list of all those who died protecting nature. If you feel strongly about it, become a junior ranger. Visit the parks, take care of nature, and involve children in programs that help them become junior park rangers.

When is World Ranger Day in 2024?

World Ranger Day is observed on July 31 each year.

Observations