Dan tells us, “As a young child growing up in southeastern Pennsylvania, I always had an interest and desire for the outdoors. Climbing trees, playing ball, and hiking at nearby Ridley Creek State Park. Fast-forwarding to retirement, I am able to contribute and give back to the health of our natural environment by volunteering in the great outdoors that I love.”
Dan was drawn to Florida by the promise of warm weather and pristine Gulf Coast beaches. No better place to begin a career in volunteering than in a Florida State Park. Dan started his volunteering with the Florida Park Service at Collier-Seminole State Park in November 2019 and has completed over 1,300 service hours.
In choosing to volunteer for the Florida Park Service, Dan saw a chance to expand his knowledge of the natural environment and the opportunity to assist park rangers in the never-ending tasks of resource management. He also loves the abundant natural wildlife found here.
Dan has many maintenance skills, including, but not limited to, vehicle maintenance, plumbing, painting, carpentry and basic electrical. He is always eager to take on new roles such as participating in programs hosted by the Friends of Collier-Seminole State Park.
You can find Dan in the campground making utility repairs to campsites, restrooms and other facilities. He also can be seen splitting firewood for campers.
Dan contributes to the park’s resource management goals through the treatment of non-native/exotic invasive plants such as Brazilian pepper, lygodium, para grass and the native but invasive sesbania grass.
Dan enjoys learning new tasks and he strives for perfection. According to Dan, “Rangers and park staff are very helpful and great to work for.”
When Dan is not on duty, you can find him at the park’s boat basin enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. It’s also a great place to walk with Curtis, a mixed-breed rescue dog. He also enjoys hiking and stargazing.
Collier-Seminole State Park is the perfect winter retreat for Dan. Mild winter-time temperatures allow Dan to enjoy most outdoor activities.
Looking into the future, Dan hopes to be involved in the upgrade to the park’s Seminole Indian Village. He also would like to see a ranger-guided swamp walk developed within the park.
Park Manager Matt Kruse says this about Dan:
"Volunteer Dan Huebner brings skill, experience and fresh ideas in tackling any project he is assigned. Always friendly and positive, Dan is eager to learn new skills. He participates in all necessary training to successfully and safely accomplish important project goals. He takes his work responsibilities seriously and has earned the respect of park staff and co-workers alike. Dan goes beyond his daily job tasks, often working beyond his required hours to complete each job. Dan is a crucial part of the Florida Park Service and Collier-Seminole State Park's team of volunteers. His service contributions to the park are vitally important, sure to reach far into the future for the benefit of all park visitors."
