Alfstad begins ‘dream job’ as naturalist
Montgomery County’s new naturalist is settling into her new position.
Naturalist Deb Karwal retired from the position on May 31 after 24 years at the post. The role is now filled by Cassandra Alfstad, who grew up in Indianola.
Alfstad said she has a love of the outdoors, though her parents don’t share a similar passion.
“My parents weren’t, and still aren’t, very outdoorsy people, but I always found a way to do what I love. My mother is a vice president at Wells Fargo and my father is a middle school and high school biology teacher. I was born in Des Moines,” Alfstad said.
That love of the outdoors, Alfstad said, is what encouraged her to pursue a degree in general biology, with a focus on zoology, wildlife ecology, and conservation.
“I have always been extremely interested and involved in conservation efforts. I have a huge passion for learning about animals, from microorganisms to elephants and everything in between,” commented Alfstad. “As I got older and got more interested in the conservation side of things, I realized the best way to get people to make an effort and start caring actively about our environment was to educate them about conservation efforts and how everything we do impacts the earth. So, I decided to double major in general biology with an emphasis in zoology, so I could still have my love of animals fulfilled, and wildlife ecology and conservation so I could better understand how to benefit our earth and communities.”
Alfstad took the position fresh from college. However, she spent the past two summers working as a naturalist for the Department of Natural Resources at Lake Ahquabi State Park. She said working with the DNR really sparked her passion for environmental education. Landing the position of naturalist at the Anderson Conservation area, Alfstad said, is a dream job.
“I saw the job posting and it was literally everything I have wanted to be. I wanted to be the face of a conservation board and educate the public about our practices. I love small communities, and talking with family and friends who were familiar with Deb Karwal, it just felt like this was where I belonged,” said Alfstad.
Karwal kept a rich history of programs at Anderson Conservation area to keep kids educated while engaging in fun outdoor activities. Alfstad said she hopes to continue with programs schools and groups have loved over the years.
“I have already created 10 new programs to meet the new core science standards. I would really like to see the center continue to grow as a spot for the community to feel welcome, so I would like to do a few more public programming for adults to enjoy as much as the kids. I love painting, so I would love to try to do a Bob Ross style “paint with me” session for adults to paint a canvas of our pond at the Anderson Conservation Area.”
One of the biggest events held each year is the Oregon Trail walk. Alfstad said she fully plans on continuing the event.
“ I am extremely disappointed we did not get to have it this year. Next year, we hope to make it a two-day event so this year’s students who missed out on it can still have their experience. A few of our presenters have said that this year was going to be their last year participating. It would be great to find a few new volunteers to help keep the impact of this event going strong. I think a few people are concerned that the Oregon Trail event will disappear since Deb has retired, but I am eager to keep the tradition going as long as we can,” Alfstad advised.
She added she is most looking forward to growing with the community and schools.
“I love creating friendships and lasting relationships with the community I am living in. I want the community to know that I am a resource for them and promote the needs and wants of Montgomery County,” Alfstad said.
Also, various summer camps will be starting up at Anderson Conservation Area. The first one is Critter Camp June 15-17 and is for 3rd- 4th grade kids. Folks can follow Montgomery County Conservation on Facebook for updates.