Meet Carlos: The New Ranger at Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve

Carlos Santana, Ranger at Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve

Carlos Santana grew up in Moreno Valley, California, where he spent his weekends exploring the trails and mountains around Lake Perris with family and friends. In 2007, at the age of 21, he enlisted in the Marine Corps, which took him across the U.S. and around the world. After completing his service in 2018, Carlos returned to Southern California, where he pursued a degree in Environmental Sciences. With his newfound knowledge and a deep passion for conservation, he decided to transition into a career focused on preserving the environment and protecting natural resources.

Q: What inspired you to become a ranger, and what excites you most about working at the Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve?

A: A ranger has the responsibility to care for and protect our natural resources. A ranger does this at the ground level, where the tire meets the road. This responsibility is what inspired me to become a ranger. 

Q: Can you share a memorable experience you've had in the outdoors that influenced your passion for conservation?

A:  There are so many memorable moments and experiences that influenced my passion for conservation. I do remember one such time in North Carolina, I was in the Croatan Forest doing a training mission at night. With my night vision goggles I spotted a red fox walking next to me seemingly unaware of my presence. I walked with it for about 50 yards before it spotted me and ran away into the forest. I thought to myself that I want to ensure that my children, and their children can enjoy the same flora and fauna that I had the opportunity to enjoy in my life.

Q: What’s one of your favorite spots within the Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve, and why?

A: It’s not technically a spot but more of a time, the river during the rain. The sound of the rain on the river and seeing the river grow more and more powerful is something I have enjoyed since the first time I visited the Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve over 4 years ago.

Q: What wildlife or plant species are you most excited for visitors to encounter at the Preserve?

A: The riparian zone because of its importance and complexity.

Q: What advice would you give to first-time visitors looking to explore the Preserve and connect with nature?

A: Enjoy it, learn about it, and be part of the efforts to conserve our wildlife.

Q: From a ranger’s perspective, what are the challenges in balancing public access and wildlife conservation within such an important corridor?

A:  Enforcement of the preserve rules does help in finding that balance. Enforcement through education and not through authority is a challenge that rangers should adopt and excel in.