What does it mean to lead the largest national park in the United States—one that’s bigger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Switzerland combined? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ben Bobowski, Superintendent of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve in southeastern Alaska. With over 13 million acres of towering peaks, vast glaciers, and deep cultural history, this park is not only massive, but awe-inspiring.
Ben shares his journey through the National Park Service—from his beginnings as a wildlife biologist to leading teams at Rocky Mountain National Park and serving internationally as a Fulbright Global Scholar. We talk about his role in shaping national climate policy, his commitment to Indigenous food security, and what it's like to steward one of the world’s most remote and rugged landscapes.
This conversation is a blend of science, leadership, and pure wilderness wonder. Whether you're a park lover, climate nerd, or just dreaming of Alaska, this one’s for you.
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Who Runs This Park is produced by Maddie Pellman with music by Danielle Bees.