Ken Torres

Ken Torres is the park manager at De Leon Springs State Park.

The mission of the Florida Park Service is: "to provide resource-based recreation while preserving, interpreting, and restoring natural and cultural resources." What role do you play in this mission?

As a park manager, I oversee the maintenance, administration, visitor service, natural resource management and overall protection of the park. Two of the most interesting parts of my job is finding funding for the improvement of the park facilities and working with the staff to make those improvements happen. This position has given me the opportunity of working with talented individuals. I am glad about the path I chose in the Florida Park Service.

How does your heritage influence your experience in the outdoors?

I was born and raised in Puerto Rico, where we spent most of our weekends at the beach. My father was a saltwater aquarium enthusiast, so collecting specimens for the aquarium was a part of our childhood. For me, this hobby evolved into a passion for animals and led me to get a bachelor's degree in Biology.

After working with captive animals in Homosassa Springs State Park for 14 years, I wanted to do more to help protect Florida's habitat. I now manage 962 acres of Florida habitat with an abundance of native wildlife species throughout the park, and that is as good as it gets.

Any advice for Latinx who are interested in a career in conservation or recreation?.

I heard before that when you love what you do you never work a day in your  life, being a park ranger is more of a lifestyle than a career. This lifestyle comes with new experiences, challenges and adventures every day.

If you love the outdoors and wildlife, then follow your dreams and join the Florida Park Service family.