October 22, 2025 • 32 mins
We talk to Sandi Olek from Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the importance of outdoor recreation in the state. They are hosting the Maryland Outdoor Summit to bring together the industry to discuss Outdoor for All, Recreation with a Purpose, and the Business of Outdoor Recreation. In this episode we learn about how this meeting will impact outdoor recreation through out Maryland and all of the opportunities to get outside in Maryland.
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Episode Transcript
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Missy Rentz (00:01):
In this episode, we get a new perspective exploring
the parks, public lands, andforests of an entire state, and
how this state is creatingoutdoors for all and encouraging
recreation with a purpose.
Join me as we get to knowMaryland's Department of Natural
Resources as they prepare forthe Maryland Outdoor Recreation
(00:23):
Summit.
I'm your host, Missy Rentz, andthis is the Parks podcast.
I'm really excited to have SandyOlek, who is the director of
Outdoor Recreation at theMaryland Department of Natural
Resources.
Sandy.
Thanks for joining the Parkspodcast.
Sandi Olek (00:40):
Oh, thanks so much for having me.
Missy Rentz (00:42):
You are my neighbor in Maryland, so I love talking
about this land.
We start each episode, typicallyit's parks, stats, but in your
case, we're gonna call it parks,public lands, and Forest Stats
to talk about the work that youdo in the Department of Natural
Resources.
Maryland is home to 80 stateparks, currently 22 of the 24
(01:04):
counties in the state.
Have a state park, and the aimis so that every county
eventually has a state park,which I think is fascinating and
amazing and so great.
Maryland manages over 500 acresof public land, including
wildlife management areas, stateforests and more.
(01:24):
And there are over 1000 miles oftrails in the state.
Maryland is an outdoor state.
Sandi Olek (01:34):
We sure are.
We have a little bit ofeverything in Maryland, and
those are just the public landsthat Department of Natural
Resources manages.
We have regional parks and wehave some fantastic robust local
park systems too, and we have alot of federal lands like the
CNO Canal and smaller parks likeFort McHenry and things like
(01:56):
that, that are really importantto our landscape and the parks
in Maryland.
Missy Rentz (02:00):
is, it's great that you mentioned that.
'cause one of the reasons that Iwanted to chat with you today is
because Maryland does.
Bringing all these peopletogether and for a conference
and we'll get into that.
But parks are clearly importantto Maryland.
What value do they bring to thestate and local communities?
Sandi Olek (02:20):
So parks are so important for people, for
recreation opportunities.
It's important for habitat forour animal.
As a buffer to protect ourwaters and help clean our
waters.
But more than that, it's justthe backyard and gathering
spaces for so many of ourcommunities.
(02:40):
And as you mentioned, we havethat goal of having a park in
every, we actually have 23counties in Baltimore City,
which is its own jurisdiction.
It's the 24th.
And these spaces are just aplace for people to unwind.
Recharge.
We see so many communitygatherings, whether it's
christenings or weddings orfamily reunions that are
(03:02):
happening there.
But there are also places ofemployment and they're great for
local businesses.
We have outfitters, we haverental providers and then nearby
businesses, hotels, restaurants,breweries that really are
supported and benefit from theparks being nearby.
Missy Rentz (03:22):
You have a unique opportunity because in some of
these coastal states, I, me andVirginia, I have it, you have
it, you go from ocean tomountains and everything in
between.
How does Maryland manage thediversity of the types of parks
and people that use them?
(03:43):
Because it's not like a cookiecutter program.
Sandi Olek (03:46):
No, it's really not.
And between the parks and theforest service, we have those,
our state forest lands and ourwildlife management areas.
And they're all managed formaybe a slightly different user
group or in a slightly differentway where the parks are heavy
infrastructure and really agreat experience for people who
(04:07):
are new, getting outside orthey're just getting introduced
to outdoor recreation.
Or you'll have.
Parking and bathrooms and wejust take camping.
For instance, you have, carcamping in the parks all over
the state.
But then we have some reallygreat backcountry camping and
some of our state forest landsin the west.
(04:28):
And Green Ridge is one of themost popular camp sites or camp
places to camp across the state.
But.
We really try and make theintroduction easy for people
through our guided experiences,through our rangers, through our
staff, or interpretation.
And for someone that's new togetting outdoors, whether it is
(04:50):
the mountains to the bay, to theocean.
It's all new, so it's, it can bevery exciting.
We try and do things like, wehad just this past year, a 25 in
2025 challenge.
So self-guided by giving peoplea prompt to go visit, and this
was run through our MarylandPark service to go visit
(05:13):
different aspects, whether it'shistorical sites in our parks,
or visit one of our lighthouse.
And we have lighthouses all overthe bay and we have one at Point
Lookout that was just newlyrenovated, and it is beautiful
and fantastic and there's somuch history there.
And even when we went for theribbon cutting for the
(05:33):
reopening, there were peoplethere who had, connections to
the lighthouse keepers andfamily history and had donated
to the Historical Society hadeven.
Donated some of the furniture tobe housed there.
So it was really exciting towatch that.
And then when you get out toDeep Creek Lake, we just
celebrated the hundred yearanniversary of the lake.
(05:54):
So E, each one is really valuedby the local community.
And course, when you talk aboutsome of these state forest lands
and the opportunity to get backcountry and camp or do some
mountain biking and things likethat, people really value and
love these lands, and that'sultimately what we want because
(06:16):
you can't protect what you don'tlove and have never experienced
it.
So our Office of outdoorrecreation is all about getting
people on the land and thewaters too.
Missy Rentz (06:26):
So you have mentioned your department of
recreation, you've mentionedyour state parks, you've
mentioned the wildlife, you'vementioned forests.
How do all of these different,like what's the difference
between everything?
Because I think as a user of theoutdoors.
It's just outdoors.
What's the difference?
Sandi Olek (06:46):
So it's funny, I think we've even done some
social media work on this tryingto show the difference and it,
and it varies within each landmanagement system too.
But in general, I think youwanna think the about the
infrastructure.
So as I said, parks may haveconcessions or a.
Rangers that are staffed there,bathrooms access rentals to be
(07:09):
able to car camp.
Whereas state forest are managednot only for habitat, but
they're managed for forestry.
So you will see, cuts andreplanting and harvest
happening, but there's still alot of trails camping.
One of our most beautiful placesto go fly fishing.
Savage River state Forest in thewest.
(07:31):
And then our wildlife managementareas are often managed for
unique habitats or wildlife'swildlife, or they're managed for
hunting and for hunting grounds.
And which you get a lot ofhabitat restoration that goes
alongside of that.
So a lot of times the trails maybe less developed or less
marked, and whereas the parksare gonna be.
(07:54):
More of a grill and campingarea, but again, it's all on a
spectrum and it's all on arange, and with so many spaces
and half a million acres,there's so much to explore.
Missy Rentz (08:06):
Yeah.
It really is.
Okay.
One of the things I noticed isthat it seems that Parks kind of
this Parks for all mentality isreally important in Maryland
through, accessibility,inclusion and whatnot.
That seems to be one of yourcore values.
Am I reading that right?
Sandi Olek (08:24):
Oh, absolutely.
And we have great partners towork with on that.
We have a lot to learnourselves, and we are really
striving to improve our owninfrastructure, make our spaces
more inclusive, so that could beon.
Having an adaptive kayak launch,or we even have adaptive fishing
(08:47):
areas with a platform that'lltake you out towards the middle
of the river so you can get moreof that fly fishing experience,
not be on the shoreline orhandicap accessible hunting
blinds, trying to give peoplethat experience as well as a
variety of trail surfaces.
There's always a lot of work tobe done in that, and we are
(09:09):
learning more and more about theneeds of hearing impaired or
vision impaired and gettingpeople outside.
We couldn't do a lot of thiswork without partners, and we
have fantastic partners who doprogramming across the state,
including.
I have experience getting outwith the Lions Club of Deep
Creek and they've done a lot onblind children and adults and
(09:31):
working with families andgetting them skiing at our ski
resort and wisp on Wisk Mountainor camping at Deep Creek Lake
State Park or out on our lake.
And our friends of PatapscoValley do so much programming,
whether it's kayaking.
Or fishing or different kinds ofhiking programs.
And they do it in partnershipwith park staff and rangers, but
(09:52):
they're really known throughoutthe state and set a great
example.
And these are some of thestories that we're hoping to
share in the practices at thesummit.
And when we get people comingtogether, the synergy is great
too.
Two.
Missy Rentz (10:06):
I think one of the things that I've experienced,
I've I am no longer a beginner,but I am a beginner in a lot of
things when it comes to parks,and oftentimes I run into people
maybe it's their fear or theirlack of knowledge, and.
I think it's really important toknow that these rangers love to
(10:27):
introduce people to theoutdoors, and so the programs
that are put on, they wantpeople who are on the cusp
listening and just not sure theywanna teach you.
They wanna answer all of yourquestions, so I think, go out
and.
And take advantage of what, youSandy and your team, and your
colleagues, teams are puttingtogether to help introduce you
(10:51):
to opportunities in the parks.
Sandi Olek (10:53):
Yeah.
Yeah.
People who work in our, on ourpublic lands and on our public
waterways, they're doing itbecause they have a passion,
they have a love.
Someone reached out a hand tothem at some point and said, let
me show you whether it was afamily member or a friend or
something.
And so they wanna be able toshare that.
And also, if you.
Put yourselves in, the shoes ofa forester or a ranger or
(11:18):
wildlife specialist.
You don't always wanna be sayinglike, don't do that, don't do
that.
You can't hammock here, or youcan't fish here, or you can't
swim here.
And it should be a place whereyou feel at ease and really at
peace and you're.
In a knowledgeable way, learningto explore and learning to push
(11:38):
your own boundaries.
But, there's just so much to behad there from, listening to the
sounds of the trees or runningwater, things like that, that
you know is so great foreveryone.
Missy Rentz (11:50):
There was some research, and I'm gonna botch
who did it, so I'm not evengonna say it, but the majority,
and majority, 95% of people whouse the outdoors are beginners
or casual users.
And I think there's thisperception that everybody who
uses the outdoors is likehardcore climbing huge rocks,
(12:10):
running.
Centuries on trails and that'sjust not the case.
A majority of people are havinga picnic or going for a
leisurely walk on a pretty calmtrail.
And I think that we build upthis and sometimes I'm the worst
at going, I can't do that, but Ican.
'cause most people that use apark are not
Sandi Olek (12:31):
Absolutely.
Yeah.
And in the outdoor rec industry,I think there's definitely the
perception that, we're talkingabout very technical, outdoor
recreation, past times, whetherit's, you need a very expensive
mountain bike or you need toknow how to bow hunt or you need
to know how to, trap and prepareyour own food or things like
(12:53):
that.
But I, a, I love to tell peoplethat just taking a walk down the
path is outdoor recreation andthere is a space for everyone
and it's, viewing the water aswell as fly fishing.
It's just getting outside,journaling, listening to the
sounds, birding there's.
There's something on thespectrum for everyone, and don't
(13:15):
get me wrong, I love thoseadventure days and I've been
really lately learning moreabout mountain biking and
enjoying that, and I love longhikes that challenge me, but.
I think not everyone has thetime to carve that out, the
opportunity or can see themsome.
Some people are afraid of thingssuch as insects or just getting
(13:41):
away from the sound of ahighway.
I've worked in environmentaleducation and I've worked with
young adults who said if theycan't hear the highway, they're
nervous because to them.
It's they're getting into adanger zone and everyone comes
to nature from a different placeand with a different experience
(14:01):
or historical experiences fromtheir families, and it's,
there's a lot to
Missy Rentz (14:06):
And that's, I think, one of the things that's
so fabulous about Maryland andI'm learning and I'm gonna go
have to spend some time in yourparks.
But I think because of thediversity, you have things in
Baltimore City, you have thingsin Annapolis, you have ways for
people, you meet people wherethey are.
And I think that's so importantand so valuable.
When I started my outdoorjourney.
(14:27):
As a dream to camp around the usI never expected that my journey
would lead me to where I am,like the knowledge level and the
involvement that I have now.
But one of the things that isamazing to me is how.
Intricate in detail.
The outdoor industry is I nevereven thought it was an industry.
And recently there was researchthat$1.2 trillion.
(14:52):
That's what is attributed to theoutdoor industry.
And I know next week you arebringing the outdoor industry in
Maryland together.
Why is it important that all thedifferent facets come together
in one place for a couple ofdays?
Sandi Olek (15:07):
You touched on so much there.
Yeah.
First off, to create thatcommunity and to raise up.
The perception that Maryland isan outdoor wonderland, right?
As we said, there's so muchhere.
There's so many experiences tobe had and I think there, there
might be a perception sometimesthat you have to either leave
(15:27):
the state to go recreate andreally.
Spend time outside, or you haveto leave the center of the state
and either go to the themountains or the shore.
And some people who may notleave Baltimore or have the
opportunity to travel that much.
There's so much you can do rightaround Baltimore City.
(15:48):
And so we, for instance.
Patapsco State park PatapscoValley State Park is our oldest
and largest park, and it spansfour counties, 32 miles, a
river, and there's 200 miles oftrails.
And it comes right up to thecity, touches the city, the
waters, and Patapsco River.
(16:09):
And there's just so much to behad there.
And by bringing people together,we're hoping to form
communities.
That support each other, sharebest practices, and also create
a louder voice to talk about theneed for not only getting people
outside for health and communitysupport, but the resources that
(16:30):
we need to care for these publiclands, public infrastructure of
whether it's trail maintenanceor funding rangers or foresters
or others.
And, water access points andmaintenance it takes a lot and
there's a lot of communitybenefit to be had, but that's
one of the things we're hopingto get out of this.
Missy Rentz (16:51):
So who's gonna be there?
And what are you talking about?
What do the rest of us need tobe prepared for coming out of
it?
Sandi Olek (16:59):
So we have, this is the great thing about the summit
and as you mentioned, this isour second year.
We did the first one last yearand we didn't really know what
to expect.
And we started in westernMaryland where it's just the
heart and it's one of theireconomic development strategies
of.
Outdoor recreation and come,live and play in Western
Maryland.
And we had such a great time.
(17:20):
And the, as you said, theoutdoor industry is so big and
you could really break it downinto people who are the
producers of outdoor gear andinfrastructure.
Like our sponsors are, we haveLife Straw and Under Armour, or.
Also city bonfire people who areproducing things that help
people get outside, but we alsohave these providers of outdoor
(17:44):
experiences.
So we'll have land managers andpark staff, but also people who
are working as guides oroutfitters or, providing that
retail experience and gettingpeople outside.
And then there's theprofessionals who might do.
The mapping and teaching peopleabout invasive species or how to
(18:05):
use nature for health and healthbenefits.
We'll have people who work inthe creative.
Side too, such as yourself.
We have outdoor writers and wehave filmmakers.
And we're really excited tobring all these people together
because the conversation thathappens surprises even us.
(18:28):
And it was just great to see it.
Last year we had two women whowere both outdoor writers who
lived on the opposite ends ofthis.
State one down in WorcesterCounty near the ocean, and the
other one on the Del MarvaPeninsula and the other one,
deep Creek Lake.
And they met each other for thefirst time and got the chance to
share practices and theywould've never really had that
(18:50):
chance to meet have we notbrought them together at that
summit?
Missy Rentz (18:53):
Do you enter into hosting something like this with
a goal of what comes up?
Out of it?
Or are you just holding spacefor whatever organically
happens?
Sandi Olek (19:04):
That's a great question.
I think that it will evolve overthe year.
Over the years this is only oursecond, the first time was
again, like you said, holdingspace and creating community.
And I think there's hasn't beenthat collective voice.
You might have an equestriancommunity who represents their
interest, and they wanna makesure that there's space to ride
(19:26):
on trails.
And then there's mountain bikerswho may want technical features
on a trail, and there's boaterswho wanna make sure there's.
Water access or anglers whowanna talk about fishing limits
and commercial and recreationalfisheries.
But I think bringing that,those, these voices together.
(19:46):
Realizing that they're strongertogether and that they have a
lot in common was our firstgoal.
And we're furthering that thisyear.
And I think we're also this yearexploring the more of the health
connections and within the urbancontext and access.
Missy Rentz (20:03):
Yeah, that is something I'm really intrigued
personally in the healthbenefits of nature.
I think it's a hidden message ina lot of our podcasts is the
physical, mental and emotionalbenefits of being out in nature.
And that's a hot topic.
You guys have that woven throughseveral places on your agenda.
Why and how did that become sucha hot topic?
(20:24):
Why is that important now?
Sandi Olek (20:27):
I would say it's a stressful time for everyone
right now.
Whether it's budget constraintsor particularly here in Maryland
we have a lot of federalworkforce, but it's just
something that, you know.
We've seen trends in thesociety, whether it's social
media or screen time and thingslike that.
(20:48):
We know that less children aregetting outdoors as as much as
they, we would like for them to,and they, and as much as their
parents or their grandparentsdid.
I know myself, I don't.
I work in this realm and I don'tget outside enough.
So it is just, I think,something that people are really
starting to see.
(21:08):
It's a non-medicated way or it'sa way that there's just, can be
so healing.
We've done a lot here inMaryland on training our own
staff on how to welcome thepublic and maybe lead some of
these more.
Relaxing hikes in nature walks,where it's not so much a hike to
(21:32):
get there, but a slowdeliberative experience in
nature.
We've done even some training onour own staff because can be
very stressful.
These, our staff are constantlyin situations where.
We have to close parks due tocapacity, or we are trying to
make sure that our visitors aresafe and there's things that
(21:56):
might be happening in the parkand they carry that with them
and they care so much.
And so we've even done someresiliency training on the
outdoors and how the outdoorscan help our own staff recharge.
We're also gonna be announcingour Maryland outdoor equity
grants.
Coming up at the summit wherewe've done some small grants to
(22:19):
provide assistance to help buildcapacity for a lot of
organizations who are trying tohelp and really with health in
mind, for many of them, whetherit's veterans with PTSD or
children that have been infoster care or things like that
to help them with experiencesgetting outdoors and.
(22:40):
I think the research is reallygrowing.
People are really understandingthe benefits.
Missy Rentz (22:44):
Yeah I've read a couple of things recently about
in other countries wherephysicians actually can
prescribe time outdoors, and Ihope that makes its way here.
I think everybody would benefitfrom leave your desk and go,
just go sit outside.
Sandi Olek (22:58):
absolutely.
Missy Rentz (22:59):
Okay.
Obviously I want people to go toMaryland.
I wanna go to Maryland to spendtime outdoors.
for people who are coming andattending what can I expect?
What can they expect when theyattend?
Sandi Olek (23:10):
We're really trying to highlight.
The outdoors that is nearbynature to Baltimore City and the
surrounding areas of centralMaryland.
So we're not only gonna haveamazing speakers and talks and
panels, but we're gonna getpeople outside.
We're gonna have excursions andopportunities for people to
(23:30):
network while they are kayakingin the Baltimore Harbor or rock
climbing in Patapsco ValleyState Park.
Or we have one day where we'redoing an outdoor rec trek and
we're gonna have teams workingand visiting partners around the
harbor and Baltimore area,learning about things happening
in the harbor, all while doing afun competition with prizes.
(23:53):
Using our water taxi or learningabout oysters in the harbor or,
art and how art and nature canintegrate as well as bike safety
and things like that.
So we have some amazing trips,boat trips and field trips for
people and we're really excitedto show off what we're so proud
(24:15):
of.
Missy Rentz (24:16):
The themes of the business of outdoor recreation
with purpose and outdoor forall.
I think you really.
Cover so much that impacts thepeople that are attending, but
also those of us who are justoutdoor users.
how will a regular listener howwill they ultimately feel the
(24:37):
impact of what you're doing nextweek at the Maryland Outdoor
Recreation Summit?
Sandi Olek (24:43):
I really hope that this is gonna result in.
People Who are we?
We say the people who are cominghere are the connectors to
getting more people outside.
So if we're building thecapacity of those that are
getting more people outside,then hopefully the experiences
will be more abundant.
They'll be sharing of resourcesfiguratively and literally
(25:05):
because they're.
Be people announcing, or havegrants or tools or things like
that.
And so I think that making ourproviders feel more supported
and also if there are challengesthat are happening, I think it's
a great place to start theconversations.
And whether it's, this is achallenge we're seeing on our
(25:26):
public lands and how can you asusers, what would you like to
see?
Or the other way around or, thisis something that's happening on
the waters.
We really need a solution forthat.
And so starting with thecommunity dialogue, I think is a
great way to go when we'relooking at policy solutions
Also.
Missy Rentz (25:44):
I will put links to your socials and your website on
this episode page because Ithink if you're listening and
you wanna follow along with.
Progress not just next week, butwhat's going on.
Following you all on socials isa great way to do it.
I'm also going and I hope tohave a few episodes that come
out of the content, but as well,I'll try to do some posting next
(26:04):
week of like little teasers andmaybe I can pull some people
aside for some quick interviewsthat we can let people know
what's happening there.
But it's very exciting and it's,I'm grateful to be part of it
and to attend and witness it andbe in such a lovely location in
the Inner harbor for the week.
Thank you for sharing it withme.
You guys have definitely put aspark that I need to go spend
some quality time at parks inpublic lands in Maryland and I'm
(26:28):
really excited about it.
Thank you.
Sandi Olek (26:30):
You are very welcome here in Maryland.
Missy Rentz (26:32):
Thank you.
Thank you.
Okay, so we end each episode,Sandy, with a speed round, and I
know some of your staff hasrequested that I make sure you
do this with us.
So you two are getting the speedround.
Are you ready for this?
Sandi Olek (26:47):
I'm ready.
I'll try and be fast.
Missy Rentz (26:49):
What is your earliest park or public land
memory?
Sandi Olek (26:54):
I would say rock Creek Park and visiting Rock
Creek Park.
My mom grew up in DC and intrying to, I'm the youngest of
four trying to keep us all busy.
She would always take us back tothe park for afternoons.
And so spending time in RockCreek Park in DC
Missy Rentz (27:10):
What made you love the parks?
Sandi Olek (27:13):
At Rock Creek Park.
There was a nature center thathad an injured owl that was
there and on display, and Ithink that owl captured my
attention so much and thethought of animals living in the
woods there, I think is whatmade me love the outdoors.
Missy Rentz (27:33):
What is your favorite thing about Maryland's
parks, forests and public lands.
Sandi Olek (27:42):
The experiences are so different as we said, from
the mountains to the sea, but Ithink I love the cool
temperatures in the west and thesounds of the ocean in the
coastal area.
Missy Rentz (27:55):
And now what is your favorite thing to do in
Maryland's parks, forests andpublic lands.
Sandi Olek (28:01):
Okay, this, honestly walk with my dog and hike with
my dog in the park.
I particularly love when it hassnowed and you can see other
animal footprints and I love towatch my dog and her nose work,
and I always say when I can seethe animal footprints in the
snow, I can see what she smellsso I can see her tracking
(28:24):
things.
Missy Rentz (28:25):
What park have you yet to visit, but it's on your
bucket list and why?
Sandi Olek (28:31):
So we have a tremendous amount of water
trails in our in our system thatwe have mapped out where it's
access and you can take kayak orcanoe or a paddle and enter in
one place and visit somehistorical sites.
And I haven't had the chance toexplore all of our water trail.
So the Patuxent Water Trail isone that I'm really interested
(28:53):
in exploring, and I have paddleda lot on the Patuxent, but
there's a and this actually isnot our park.
It's, I think it's a PrinceGeorge's County Maryland
National Capital Park andPlanning Commission Park.
But there's a paddle in campsitethat I've always really wanted
to do.
You
Missy Rentz (29:08):
What are three must haves you pack for a.
Park public land visit.
Sandi Olek (29:16):
water.
A good snack and the rightshoes.
So summertime, maybe water,shoes, but usually hiking shoes
or boots,
Missy Rentz (29:28):
What is your favorite campfire activity?
Sandi Olek (29:32):
s'mores.
I know it's very basic, but Ijust love s'mores.
Missy Rentz (29:37):
Tent.
Camper, or cabin?
Sandi Olek (29:40):
I think that, I have to admit, I'm probably leaning
more towards cabin these days.
We have some fantastic cabinsthat I've had the privilege of
getting to stay in andexperience across the state.
And more recently, I've actuallygotten to stay in some of our
yurts, which has been an amazingexperience.
One night I stayed in the apark.
By myself in a yurt in thereally big storm.
(30:04):
And the sound of the rain on theyurt ceiling was just amazing
Missy Rentz (30:10):
Are you hiking with or without trekking poles?
Sandi Olek (30:14):
without,
Missy Rentz (30:15):
What is your favorite trail snack?
Sandi Olek (30:19):
A good trail mix.
But then a PBJ and a apple.
Missy Rentz (30:24):
What is your favorite animal sighting?
Sandi Olek (30:28):
My favorite animal sighting probably it did not
happen in Maryland.
I was in grand Teton in Wyoming.
Okay.
And we saw a mama moose and hercalf on the trail with my
children who had been warnedthat the most dangerous thing
you could see was a mama moose.
(30:49):
So we backed up, gave her space.
She followed us a little bit andwe just were very patient to,
until she allowed us to go downthe hill.
Missy Rentz (31:00):
What is your favorite sound in the park
Sandi Olek (31:04):
Running water.
Yeah.
From a stream creek.
Or it could be waves crashing,but I'd love hiking next to a
stream.
Missy Rentz (31:15):
and what is the greatest gift that the parks and
public lands give to us?
Sandi Olek (31:21):
I think the chance to reflect on the landscape and
look at.
Others look at the history ofwho has come before us and lived
on that land, whether it'srecent or our native indigenous
peoples and their history.
I'd love to look around andthink of what happened here
(31:41):
before, and that to preservethat and to be able to walk on
the same land, I think isamazing.
Missy Rentz (31:49):
Sandy, thank you.
You are helping one of myvisions come true'cause I've
wanted to do a 30,000 kind offoot look at a state and you are
doing that and I appreciatethat.
It was a great introduction toMaryland and I am.
Looking forward to seeing younext week, but also diving in
and doing more and maybebringing some of these stories
(32:10):
to life for listeners in futureepisodes.
So thank you for being with theParks podcast today.
Sandi Olek (32:15):
Thank you so much, Missy, and I look forward to
seeing you next week.
Missy Rentz (32:19):
Thanks for listening to this episode.
Until next time, we'll see youin the parks.
Thanks for listening.
If you enjoyed today's episode,please be sure to like and share
on your favorite podcastplatform.
Music for the parks podcast isperformed and produced by Porter
Hardy.
For more information, pleasefollow us on Instagram at the
parks podcast.
(32:40):
Or visit ourwebsite@theparkspodcast.com.
In this episode, we get a new perspective exploring
the parks, public lands, andforests of an entire state, and
how this state is creatingoutdoors for all and encouraging
recreation with a purpose.
Join me as we get to knowMaryland's Department of Natural
Resources as they prepare forthe Maryland Outdoor Recreation
(00:23):
Summit.
I'm your host, Missy Rentz, andthis is the Parks podcast.
I'm really excited to have SandyOlek, who is the director of
Outdoor Recreation at theMaryland Department of Natural
Resources.
Sandy.
Thanks for joining the Parkspodcast.
Sandi Olek (00:40):
Oh, thanks so much for having me.
Missy Rentz (00:42):
You are my neighbor in Maryland, so I love talking
about this land.
We start each episode, typicallyit's parks, stats, but in your
case, we're gonna call it parks,public lands, and Forest Stats
to talk about the work that youdo in the Department of Natural
Resources.
Maryland is home to 80 stateparks, currently 22 of the 24
(01:04):
counties in the state.
Have a state park, and the aimis so that every county
eventually has a state park,which I think is fascinating and
amazing and so great.
Maryland manages over 500 acresof public land, including
wildlife management areas, stateforests and more.
(01:24):
And there are over 1000 miles oftrails in the state.
Maryland is an outdoor state.
Sandi Olek (01:34):
We sure are.
We have a little bit ofeverything in Maryland, and
those are just the public landsthat Department of Natural
Resources manages.
We have regional parks and wehave some fantastic robust local
park systems too, and we have alot of federal lands like the
CNO Canal and smaller parks likeFort McHenry and things like
(01:56):
that, that are really importantto our landscape and the parks
in Maryland.
Missy Rentz (02:00):
is, it's great that you mentioned that.
'cause one of the reasons that Iwanted to chat with you today is
because Maryland does.
Bringing all these peopletogether and for a conference
and we'll get into that.
But parks are clearly importantto Maryland.
What value do they bring to thestate and local communities?
Sandi Olek (02:20):
So parks are so important for people, for
recreation opportunities.
It's important for habitat forour animal.
As a buffer to protect ourwaters and help clean our
waters.
But more than that, it's justthe backyard and gathering
spaces for so many of ourcommunities.
(02:40):
And as you mentioned, we havethat goal of having a park in
every, we actually have 23counties in Baltimore City,
which is its own jurisdiction.
It's the 24th.
And these spaces are just aplace for people to unwind.
Recharge.
We see so many communitygatherings, whether it's
christenings or weddings orfamily reunions that are
(03:02):
happening there.
But there are also places ofemployment and they're great for
local businesses.
We have outfitters, we haverental providers and then nearby
businesses, hotels, restaurants,breweries that really are
supported and benefit from theparks being nearby.
Missy Rentz (03:22):
You have a unique opportunity because in some of
these coastal states, I, me andVirginia, I have it, you have
it, you go from ocean tomountains and everything in
between.
How does Maryland manage thediversity of the types of parks
and people that use them?
(03:43):
Because it's not like a cookiecutter program.
Sandi Olek (03:46):
No, it's really not.
And between the parks and theforest service, we have those,
our state forest lands and ourwildlife management areas.
And they're all managed formaybe a slightly different user
group or in a slightly differentway where the parks are heavy
infrastructure and really agreat experience for people who
(04:07):
are new, getting outside orthey're just getting introduced
to outdoor recreation.
Or you'll have.
Parking and bathrooms and wejust take camping.
For instance, you have, carcamping in the parks all over
the state.
But then we have some reallygreat backcountry camping and
some of our state forest landsin the west.
(04:28):
And Green Ridge is one of themost popular camp sites or camp
places to camp across the state.
But.
We really try and make theintroduction easy for people
through our guided experiences,through our rangers, through our
staff, or interpretation.
And for someone that's new togetting outdoors, whether it is
(04:50):
the mountains to the bay, to theocean.
It's all new, so it's, it can bevery exciting.
We try and do things like, wehad just this past year, a 25 in
2025 challenge.
So self-guided by giving peoplea prompt to go visit, and this
was run through our MarylandPark service to go visit
(05:13):
different aspects, whether it'shistorical sites in our parks,
or visit one of our lighthouse.
And we have lighthouses all overthe bay and we have one at Point
Lookout that was just newlyrenovated, and it is beautiful
and fantastic and there's somuch history there.
And even when we went for theribbon cutting for the
(05:33):
reopening, there were peoplethere who had, connections to
the lighthouse keepers andfamily history and had donated
to the Historical Society hadeven.
Donated some of the furniture tobe housed there.
So it was really exciting towatch that.
And then when you get out toDeep Creek Lake, we just
celebrated the hundred yearanniversary of the lake.
(05:54):
So E, each one is really valuedby the local community.
And course, when you talk aboutsome of these state forest lands
and the opportunity to get backcountry and camp or do some
mountain biking and things likethat, people really value and
love these lands, and that'sultimately what we want because
(06:16):
you can't protect what you don'tlove and have never experienced
it.
So our Office of outdoorrecreation is all about getting
people on the land and thewaters too.
Missy Rentz (06:26):
So you have mentioned your department of
recreation, you've mentionedyour state parks, you've
mentioned the wildlife, you'vementioned forests.
How do all of these different,like what's the difference
between everything?
Because I think as a user of theoutdoors.
It's just outdoors.
What's the difference?
Sandi Olek (06:46):
So it's funny, I think we've even done some
social media work on this tryingto show the difference and it,
and it varies within each landmanagement system too.
But in general, I think youwanna think the about the
infrastructure.
So as I said, parks may haveconcessions or a.
Rangers that are staffed there,bathrooms access rentals to be
(07:09):
able to car camp.
Whereas state forest are managednot only for habitat, but
they're managed for forestry.
So you will see, cuts andreplanting and harvest
happening, but there's still alot of trails camping.
One of our most beautiful placesto go fly fishing.
Savage River state Forest in thewest.
(07:31):
And then our wildlife managementareas are often managed for
unique habitats or wildlife'swildlife, or they're managed for
hunting and for hunting grounds.
And which you get a lot ofhabitat restoration that goes
alongside of that.
So a lot of times the trails maybe less developed or less
marked, and whereas the parksare gonna be.
(07:54):
More of a grill and campingarea, but again, it's all on a
spectrum and it's all on arange, and with so many spaces
and half a million acres,there's so much to explore.
Missy Rentz (08:06):
Yeah.
It really is.
Okay.
One of the things I noticed isthat it seems that Parks kind of
this Parks for all mentality isreally important in Maryland
through, accessibility,inclusion and whatnot.
That seems to be one of yourcore values.
Am I reading that right?
Sandi Olek (08:24):
Oh, absolutely.
And we have great partners towork with on that.
We have a lot to learnourselves, and we are really
striving to improve our owninfrastructure, make our spaces
more inclusive, so that could beon.
Having an adaptive kayak launch,or we even have adaptive fishing
(08:47):
areas with a platform that'lltake you out towards the middle
of the river so you can get moreof that fly fishing experience,
not be on the shoreline orhandicap accessible hunting
blinds, trying to give peoplethat experience as well as a
variety of trail surfaces.
There's always a lot of work tobe done in that, and we are
(09:09):
learning more and more about theneeds of hearing impaired or
vision impaired and gettingpeople outside.
We couldn't do a lot of thiswork without partners, and we
have fantastic partners who doprogramming across the state,
including.
I have experience getting outwith the Lions Club of Deep
Creek and they've done a lot onblind children and adults and
(09:31):
working with families andgetting them skiing at our ski
resort and wisp on Wisk Mountainor camping at Deep Creek Lake
State Park or out on our lake.
And our friends of PatapscoValley do so much programming,
whether it's kayaking.
Or fishing or different kinds ofhiking programs.
And they do it in partnershipwith park staff and rangers, but
(09:52):
they're really known throughoutthe state and set a great
example.
And these are some of thestories that we're hoping to
share in the practices at thesummit.
And when we get people comingtogether, the synergy is great
too.
Two.
Missy Rentz (10:06):
I think one of the things that I've experienced,
I've I am no longer a beginner,but I am a beginner in a lot of
things when it comes to parks,and oftentimes I run into people
maybe it's their fear or theirlack of knowledge, and.
I think it's really important toknow that these rangers love to
(10:27):
introduce people to theoutdoors, and so the programs
that are put on, they wantpeople who are on the cusp
listening and just not sure theywanna teach you.
They wanna answer all of yourquestions, so I think, go out
and.
And take advantage of what, youSandy and your team, and your
colleagues, teams are puttingtogether to help introduce you
(10:51):
to opportunities in the parks.
Sandi Olek (10:53):
Yeah.
Yeah.
People who work in our, on ourpublic lands and on our public
waterways, they're doing itbecause they have a passion,
they have a love.
Someone reached out a hand tothem at some point and said, let
me show you whether it was afamily member or a friend or
something.
And so they wanna be able toshare that.
And also, if you.
Put yourselves in, the shoes ofa forester or a ranger or
(11:18):
wildlife specialist.
You don't always wanna be sayinglike, don't do that, don't do
that.
You can't hammock here, or youcan't fish here, or you can't
swim here.
And it should be a place whereyou feel at ease and really at
peace and you're.
In a knowledgeable way, learningto explore and learning to push
(11:38):
your own boundaries.
But, there's just so much to behad there from, listening to the
sounds of the trees or runningwater, things like that, that
you know is so great foreveryone.
Missy Rentz (11:50):
There was some research, and I'm gonna botch
who did it, so I'm not evengonna say it, but the majority,
and majority, 95% of people whouse the outdoors are beginners
or casual users.
And I think there's thisperception that everybody who
uses the outdoors is likehardcore climbing huge rocks,
(12:10):
running.
Centuries on trails and that'sjust not the case.
A majority of people are havinga picnic or going for a
leisurely walk on a pretty calmtrail.
And I think that we build upthis and sometimes I'm the worst
at going, I can't do that, but Ican.
'cause most people that use apark are not
Sandi Olek (12:31):
Absolutely.
Yeah.
And in the outdoor rec industry,I think there's definitely the
perception that, we're talkingabout very technical, outdoor
recreation, past times, whetherit's, you need a very expensive
mountain bike or you need toknow how to bow hunt or you need
to know how to, trap and prepareyour own food or things like
(12:53):
that.
But I, a, I love to tell peoplethat just taking a walk down the
path is outdoor recreation andthere is a space for everyone
and it's, viewing the water aswell as fly fishing.
It's just getting outside,journaling, listening to the
sounds, birding there's.
There's something on thespectrum for everyone, and don't
(13:15):
get me wrong, I love thoseadventure days and I've been
really lately learning moreabout mountain biking and
enjoying that, and I love longhikes that challenge me, but.
I think not everyone has thetime to carve that out, the
opportunity or can see themsome.
Some people are afraid of thingssuch as insects or just getting
(13:41):
away from the sound of ahighway.
I've worked in environmentaleducation and I've worked with
young adults who said if theycan't hear the highway, they're
nervous because to them.
It's they're getting into adanger zone and everyone comes
to nature from a different placeand with a different experience
(14:01):
or historical experiences fromtheir families, and it's,
there's a lot to
Missy Rentz (14:06):
And that's, I think, one of the things that's
so fabulous about Maryland andI'm learning and I'm gonna go
have to spend some time in yourparks.
But I think because of thediversity, you have things in
Baltimore City, you have thingsin Annapolis, you have ways for
people, you meet people wherethey are.
And I think that's so importantand so valuable.
When I started my outdoorjourney.
(14:27):
As a dream to camp around the usI never expected that my journey
would lead me to where I am,like the knowledge level and the
involvement that I have now.
But one of the things that isamazing to me is how.
Intricate in detail.
The outdoor industry is I nevereven thought it was an industry.
And recently there was researchthat$1.2 trillion.
(14:52):
That's what is attributed to theoutdoor industry.
And I know next week you arebringing the outdoor industry in
Maryland together.
Why is it important that all thedifferent facets come together
in one place for a couple ofdays?
Sandi Olek (15:07):
You touched on so much there.
Yeah.
First off, to create thatcommunity and to raise up.
The perception that Maryland isan outdoor wonderland, right?
As we said, there's so muchhere.
There's so many experiences tobe had and I think there, there
might be a perception sometimesthat you have to either leave
(15:27):
the state to go recreate andreally.
Spend time outside, or you haveto leave the center of the state
and either go to the themountains or the shore.
And some people who may notleave Baltimore or have the
opportunity to travel that much.
There's so much you can do rightaround Baltimore City.
(15:48):
And so we, for instance.
Patapsco State park PatapscoValley State Park is our oldest
and largest park, and it spansfour counties, 32 miles, a
river, and there's 200 miles oftrails.
And it comes right up to thecity, touches the city, the
waters, and Patapsco River.
(16:09):
And there's just so much to behad there.
And by bringing people together,we're hoping to form
communities.
That support each other, sharebest practices, and also create
a louder voice to talk about theneed for not only getting people
outside for health and communitysupport, but the resources that
(16:30):
we need to care for these publiclands, public infrastructure of
whether it's trail maintenanceor funding rangers or foresters
or others.
And, water access points andmaintenance it takes a lot and
there's a lot of communitybenefit to be had, but that's
one of the things we're hopingto get out of this.
Missy Rentz (16:51):
So who's gonna be there?
And what are you talking about?
What do the rest of us need tobe prepared for coming out of
it?
Sandi Olek (16:59):
So we have, this is the great thing about the summit
and as you mentioned, this isour second year.
We did the first one last yearand we didn't really know what
to expect.
And we started in westernMaryland where it's just the
heart and it's one of theireconomic development strategies
of.
Outdoor recreation and come,live and play in Western
Maryland.
And we had such a great time.
(17:20):
And the, as you said, theoutdoor industry is so big and
you could really break it downinto people who are the
producers of outdoor gear andinfrastructure.
Like our sponsors are, we haveLife Straw and Under Armour, or.
Also city bonfire people who areproducing things that help
people get outside, but we alsohave these providers of outdoor
(17:44):
experiences.
So we'll have land managers andpark staff, but also people who
are working as guides oroutfitters or, providing that
retail experience and gettingpeople outside.
And then there's theprofessionals who might do.
The mapping and teaching peopleabout invasive species or how to
(18:05):
use nature for health and healthbenefits.
We'll have people who work inthe creative.
Side too, such as yourself.
We have outdoor writers and wehave filmmakers.
And we're really excited tobring all these people together
because the conversation thathappens surprises even us.
(18:28):
And it was just great to see it.
Last year we had two women whowere both outdoor writers who
lived on the opposite ends ofthis.
State one down in WorcesterCounty near the ocean, and the
other one on the Del MarvaPeninsula and the other one,
deep Creek Lake.
And they met each other for thefirst time and got the chance to
share practices and theywould've never really had that
(18:50):
chance to meet have we notbrought them together at that
summit?
Missy Rentz (18:53):
Do you enter into hosting something like this with
a goal of what comes up?
Out of it?
Or are you just holding spacefor whatever organically
happens?
Sandi Olek (19:04):
That's a great question.
I think that it will evolve overthe year.
Over the years this is only oursecond, the first time was
again, like you said, holdingspace and creating community.
And I think there's hasn't beenthat collective voice.
You might have an equestriancommunity who represents their
interest, and they wanna makesure that there's space to ride
(19:26):
on trails.
And then there's mountain bikerswho may want technical features
on a trail, and there's boaterswho wanna make sure there's.
Water access or anglers whowanna talk about fishing limits
and commercial and recreationalfisheries.
But I think bringing that,those, these voices together.
(19:46):
Realizing that they're strongertogether and that they have a
lot in common was our firstgoal.
And we're furthering that thisyear.
And I think we're also this yearexploring the more of the health
connections and within the urbancontext and access.
Missy Rentz (20:03):
Yeah, that is something I'm really intrigued
personally in the healthbenefits of nature.
I think it's a hidden message ina lot of our podcasts is the
physical, mental and emotionalbenefits of being out in nature.
And that's a hot topic.
You guys have that woven throughseveral places on your agenda.
Why and how did that become sucha hot topic?
(20:24):
Why is that important now?
Sandi Olek (20:27):
I would say it's a stressful time for everyone
right now.
Whether it's budget constraintsor particularly here in Maryland
we have a lot of federalworkforce, but it's just
something that, you know.
We've seen trends in thesociety, whether it's social
media or screen time and thingslike that.
(20:48):
We know that less children aregetting outdoors as as much as
they, we would like for them to,and they, and as much as their
parents or their grandparentsdid.
I know myself, I don't.
I work in this realm and I don'tget outside enough.
So it is just, I think,something that people are really
starting to see.
(21:08):
It's a non-medicated way or it'sa way that there's just, can be
so healing.
We've done a lot here inMaryland on training our own
staff on how to welcome thepublic and maybe lead some of
these more.
Relaxing hikes in nature walks,where it's not so much a hike to
(21:32):
get there, but a slowdeliberative experience in
nature.
We've done even some training onour own staff because can be
very stressful.
These, our staff are constantlyin situations where.
We have to close parks due tocapacity, or we are trying to
make sure that our visitors aresafe and there's things that
(21:56):
might be happening in the parkand they carry that with them
and they care so much.
And so we've even done someresiliency training on the
outdoors and how the outdoorscan help our own staff recharge.
We're also gonna be announcingour Maryland outdoor equity
grants.
Coming up at the summit wherewe've done some small grants to
(22:19):
provide assistance to help buildcapacity for a lot of
organizations who are trying tohelp and really with health in
mind, for many of them, whetherit's veterans with PTSD or
children that have been infoster care or things like that
to help them with experiencesgetting outdoors and.
(22:40):
I think the research is reallygrowing.
People are really understandingthe benefits.
Missy Rentz (22:44):
Yeah I've read a couple of things recently about
in other countries wherephysicians actually can
prescribe time outdoors, and Ihope that makes its way here.
I think everybody would benefitfrom leave your desk and go,
just go sit outside.
Sandi Olek (22:58):
absolutely.
Missy Rentz (22:59):
Okay.
Obviously I want people to go toMaryland.
I wanna go to Maryland to spendtime outdoors.
for people who are coming andattending what can I expect?
What can they expect when theyattend?
Sandi Olek (23:10):
We're really trying to highlight.
The outdoors that is nearbynature to Baltimore City and the
surrounding areas of centralMaryland.
So we're not only gonna haveamazing speakers and talks and
panels, but we're gonna getpeople outside.
We're gonna have excursions andopportunities for people to
(23:30):
network while they are kayakingin the Baltimore Harbor or rock
climbing in Patapsco ValleyState Park.
Or we have one day where we'redoing an outdoor rec trek and
we're gonna have teams workingand visiting partners around the
harbor and Baltimore area,learning about things happening
in the harbor, all while doing afun competition with prizes.
(23:53):
Using our water taxi or learningabout oysters in the harbor or,
art and how art and nature canintegrate as well as bike safety
and things like that.
So we have some amazing trips,boat trips and field trips for
people and we're really excitedto show off what we're so proud
(24:15):
of.
Missy Rentz (24:16):
The themes of the business of outdoor recreation
with purpose and outdoor forall.
I think you really.
Cover so much that impacts thepeople that are attending, but
also those of us who are justoutdoor users.
how will a regular listener howwill they ultimately feel the
(24:37):
impact of what you're doing nextweek at the Maryland Outdoor
Recreation Summit?
Sandi Olek (24:43):
I really hope that this is gonna result in.
People Who are we?
We say the people who are cominghere are the connectors to
getting more people outside.
So if we're building thecapacity of those that are
getting more people outside,then hopefully the experiences
will be more abundant.
They'll be sharing of resourcesfiguratively and literally
(25:05):
because they're.
Be people announcing, or havegrants or tools or things like
that.
And so I think that making ourproviders feel more supported
and also if there are challengesthat are happening, I think it's
a great place to start theconversations.
And whether it's, this is achallenge we're seeing on our
(25:26):
public lands and how can you asusers, what would you like to
see?
Or the other way around or, thisis something that's happening on
the waters.
We really need a solution forthat.
And so starting with thecommunity dialogue, I think is a
great way to go when we'relooking at policy solutions
Also.
Missy Rentz (25:44):
I will put links to your socials and your website on
this episode page because Ithink if you're listening and
you wanna follow along with.
Progress not just next week, butwhat's going on.
Following you all on socials isa great way to do it.
I'm also going and I hope tohave a few episodes that come
out of the content, but as well,I'll try to do some posting next
(26:04):
week of like little teasers andmaybe I can pull some people
aside for some quick interviewsthat we can let people know
what's happening there.
But it's very exciting and it's,I'm grateful to be part of it
and to attend and witness it andbe in such a lovely location in
the Inner harbor for the week.
Thank you for sharing it withme.
You guys have definitely put aspark that I need to go spend
some quality time at parks inpublic lands in Maryland and I'm
(26:28):
really excited about it.
Thank you.
Sandi Olek (26:30):
You are very welcome here in Maryland.
Missy Rentz (26:32):
Thank you.
Thank you.
Okay, so we end each episode,Sandy, with a speed round, and I
know some of your staff hasrequested that I make sure you
do this with us.
So you two are getting the speedround.
Are you ready for this?
Sandi Olek (26:47):
I'm ready.
I'll try and be fast.
Missy Rentz (26:49):
What is your earliest park or public land
memory?
Sandi Olek (26:54):
I would say rock Creek Park and visiting Rock
Creek Park.
My mom grew up in DC and intrying to, I'm the youngest of
four trying to keep us all busy.
She would always take us back tothe park for afternoons.
And so spending time in RockCreek Park in DC
Missy Rentz (27:10):
What made you love the parks?
Sandi Olek (27:13):
At Rock Creek Park.
There was a nature center thathad an injured owl that was
there and on display, and Ithink that owl captured my
attention so much and thethought of animals living in the
woods there, I think is whatmade me love the outdoors.
Missy Rentz (27:33):
What is your favorite thing about Maryland's
parks, forests and public lands.
Sandi Olek (27:42):
The experiences are so different as we said, from
the mountains to the sea, but Ithink I love the cool
temperatures in the west and thesounds of the ocean in the
coastal area.
Missy Rentz (27:55):
And now what is your favorite thing to do in
Maryland's parks, forests andpublic lands.
Sandi Olek (28:01):
Okay, this, honestly walk with my dog and hike with
my dog in the park.
I particularly love when it hassnowed and you can see other
animal footprints and I love towatch my dog and her nose work,
and I always say when I can seethe animal footprints in the
snow, I can see what she smellsso I can see her tracking
(28:24):
things.
Missy Rentz (28:25):
What park have you yet to visit, but it's on your
bucket list and why?
Sandi Olek (28:31):
So we have a tremendous amount of water
trails in our in our system thatwe have mapped out where it's
access and you can take kayak orcanoe or a paddle and enter in
one place and visit somehistorical sites.
And I haven't had the chance toexplore all of our water trail.
So the Patuxent Water Trail isone that I'm really interested
(28:53):
in exploring, and I have paddleda lot on the Patuxent, but
there's a and this actually isnot our park.
It's, I think it's a PrinceGeorge's County Maryland
National Capital Park andPlanning Commission Park.
But there's a paddle in campsitethat I've always really wanted
to do.
You
Missy Rentz (29:08):
What are three must haves you pack for a.
Park public land visit.
Sandi Olek (29:16):
water.
A good snack and the rightshoes.
So summertime, maybe water,shoes, but usually hiking shoes
or boots,
Missy Rentz (29:28):
What is your favorite campfire activity?
Sandi Olek (29:32):
s'mores.
I know it's very basic, but Ijust love s'mores.
Missy Rentz (29:37):
Tent.
Camper, or cabin?
Sandi Olek (29:40):
I think that, I have to admit, I'm probably leaning
more towards cabin these days.
We have some fantastic cabinsthat I've had the privilege of
getting to stay in andexperience across the state.
And more recently, I've actuallygotten to stay in some of our
yurts, which has been an amazingexperience.
One night I stayed in the apark.
By myself in a yurt in thereally big storm.
(30:04):
And the sound of the rain on theyurt ceiling was just amazing
Missy Rentz (30:10):
Are you hiking with or without trekking poles?
Sandi Olek (30:14):
without,
Missy Rentz (30:15):
What is your favorite trail snack?
Sandi Olek (30:19):
A good trail mix.
But then a PBJ and a apple.
Missy Rentz (30:24):
What is your favorite animal sighting?
Sandi Olek (30:28):
My favorite animal sighting probably it did not
happen in Maryland.
I was in grand Teton in Wyoming.
Okay.
And we saw a mama moose and hercalf on the trail with my
children who had been warnedthat the most dangerous thing
you could see was a mama moose.
(30:49):
So we backed up, gave her space.
She followed us a little bit andwe just were very patient to,
until she allowed us to go downthe hill.
Missy Rentz (31:00):
What is your favorite sound in the park
Sandi Olek (31:04):
Running water.
Yeah.
From a stream creek.
Or it could be waves crashing,but I'd love hiking next to a
stream.
Missy Rentz (31:15):
and what is the greatest gift that the parks and
public lands give to us?
Sandi Olek (31:21):
I think the chance to reflect on the landscape and
look at.
Others look at the history ofwho has come before us and lived
on that land, whether it'srecent or our native indigenous
peoples and their history.
I'd love to look around andthink of what happened here
(31:41):
before, and that to preservethat and to be able to walk on
the same land, I think isamazing.
Missy Rentz (31:49):
Sandy, thank you.
You are helping one of myvisions come true'cause I've
wanted to do a 30,000 kind offoot look at a state and you are
doing that and I appreciatethat.
It was a great introduction toMaryland and I am.
Looking forward to seeing younext week, but also diving in
and doing more and maybebringing some of these stories
(32:10):
to life for listeners in futureepisodes.
So thank you for being with theParks podcast today.
Sandi Olek (32:15):
Thank you so much, Missy, and I look forward to
seeing you next week.
Missy Rentz (32:19):
Thanks for listening to this episode.
Until next time, we'll see youin the parks.
Thanks for listening.
If you enjoyed today's episode,please be sure to like and share
on your favorite podcastplatform.
Music for the parks podcast isperformed and produced by Porter
Hardy.
For more information, pleasefollow us on Instagram at the
parks podcast.
(32:40):
Or visit ourwebsite@theparkspodcast.com.
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