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Lessons Learned on the South Fork

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Time flies when you’re having fun—something I’ve heard too often, especially as of late. And although it’s a cliché, this summer has proven that phrase true. My 10-week South Fork Initiative internship has flown by faster than ever. Soon, I’ll no longer be at Conant boat ramp, but driving 40 hours home to Northern Maine. And as I look back on my time spent in Idaho, I have so many great memories to reflect on! With memories, though, come lessons. Not only have I learned some new ones, but others have been reinforced through experiences out West. That being said, here are some of my favorite lessons learned on the South Fork.

Woman in river near mountains

Don’t Fear Rejection!

During my time at Conant Boat Ramp working on our outreach program, Morning Bites, my mentor Devan encouraged me to reach out to people first. Although this method started out slow, it became second nature by the end of the summer. Over time, I found myself more and more comfortable communicating with people I had never met before. Not only did I enjoy it, but it also allowed me to effectively spread information about the South Fork Initiative. By the end of my internship, I felt confident in my communication skills and had made so many connections through Morning Bites! One of my favorite parts of my internship has been just that: meeting new people and learning what has brought them to the South Fork.

Of course, not everyone will want to hear about the South Fork Initiative. Some are beyond eager to get out on the river and start fishing—and that’s okay! I’ve learned that with communication comes rejection. But rejection shouldn’t stop you from doing your job. It shouldn’t shut down the idea of doing something you enjoy. Recognize it, and move on!

Walking in Waders...

Moving swiftly on, I don’t recommend walking long distances in waders… in Harriman State Park… or anywhere above water.

When tasked with the maintenance of seven temperature loggers, fellow intern Dela and I made the mistake of leaving our hiking boots in the car. A few loggers later, we found ourselves with blisters and sore feet. Although this occurred on the Henry’s Fork, I figured I’d share. Lesson learned!

Woman taking dirt samples
Woman wading in the river

Explore!

Before my internship began, I worried that my summer would be boring or lonely. As I mentioned in my last blog post, Swan Valley is small. I pictured myself living in a trailer alone and wondered what I would end up doing for my 10 weeks away from home. But as it turns out, there’s so much to see! Ten weeks is not nearly enough time to explore everything I wanted see.

That being said, if a future SFI Intern is reading this, I recommend wasting no time and exploring as soon as possible. Take advice from the locals, be safe, and try new things! Time will fly by, and before you know it, it’ll be your final week of your internship. Make it a summer to truly remember!

Mountain view

Spend Time with People Who Make It Worth It

I’ve fallen in love with the scenery that the West has to offer. I love the rivers, the mountains, the big sky, and everything in between. But as my internship winds down, I can’t help but notice the time I’ve spent around great company. I’ve learned that it’s not all about where you are, but who you’re with—and who you choose to spend your time around.

Connecting back to the first lesson, I’ve made so many meaningful connections this summer that have made my time out West one to remember. Swan Valley is small, but not once did I ever feel alone. Thank you to all who made this possible for me.

South Fork Initiative vendor tent
Group photo from conference
Group of people on the river
2 people in a boat on the river

Soon, I’ll begin my sophomore year at St. Lawrence University, where I’ll continue to pursue an Environmental Studies and Business double major. What’s in store for me next summer? I have no idea. But until then, time will continue to fly.

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