August 27, 2024

For Oscar Rodriguez, nature has always been a sanctuary—a place of solace and discovery. His journey with the Chico Creek Nature Center, where he has been guiding night hikes, owl prowls, and other nature programs for nearly three years, is a testament to his lifelong passion for the natural world.

Oscar’s path to the Nature Center began with a search for a new direction in life. With a background in physical geography, pyrogeography, and natural resource management, he was drawn to the opportunity to share his knowledge through hikes and other nature programs. “I love working here. It provides a great avenue for doing other things,” he says, reflecting on his role that includes Full Moon and New Moon hikes, as well as daytime explorations of Upper Bidwell Park.

Oscar’s story is one of transformation and dedication. Growing up in a challenging environment, he found refuge in nature. Raised between San Isidro and Mexico, his connection to the outdoors was a natural extension of his upbringing. “Being outdoors is just a natural thing to me,” he explains. This early connection to nature shaped his career and his approach to guiding others.

Before joining CARD, Oscar worked with various organizations, including the Los Angeles Audubon Society and the La Brea Tar Pits, and even engaged in water quality testing with the Los Angeles Waterkeepers. These experiences enriched his knowledge and fueled his desire to give back to the community. “I want to be able to do my part,” he says, describing his journey from a homeless youth to a dedicated naturalist.

One of the highlights of his role at the Chico Creek Nature Center has been the chance to lead night hikes, where participants often encounter the unexpected. Oscar recalls a memorable moment when a young girl, experiencing her first snake encounter, was thrilled to touch a California king snake. “It was amazing because her teenage brothers got excited about it too,” he says, sharing the joy of igniting curiosity in others.

Oscar’s dedication to fostering a love for nature extends beyond CARD hikes and programs. He aims to inspire a deeper connection to the environment and encourage people to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors, both day and night. “I think it's important to get back to what it means to be human,” he says, emphasizing the value of reconnecting with nature in a modern world often dominated by technology.

His mentor, William Selby, played a significant role in shaping Oscar’s path. Having been a guiding force in his life, Selby’s influence is evident in Oscar’s teaching approach and passion for natural sciences. “He treated me like a son and taught me everything he knew,” Oscar reflects. The lessons learned from Selby continue to inspire him as he imparts his knowledge to others.

For Oscar, every hike is an opportunity to share his love for nature and to help others see the world through a different lens. Whether guiding an owl prowl or leading a group through Upper Bidwell Park under the stars, his enthusiasm for the natural world shines through. “It’s never unnatural for me to be out there,” he says. “I just want to instill that curiosity in others and help them appreciate the outdoors as much as I do.”

Oscar Rodriguez’s journey from a young explorer to a dedicated naturalist is a testament to the power of nature to transform lives. Through his work with CARD, he continues to inspire others to embrace the wonders of the natural world, one hike at a time.

Learn more about the Nature Center’s outdoor programs at chicorec.gov/nature-center, and join Oscar’s hikes at chicorec.gov/hikes. For more CARD updates, visit chicorec.gov and follow CARD on Facebook and Instagram @chicorec.

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About Chico Area Recreation & Park District

Founded in 1948, the Chico Area Recreation & Park District (CARD) is a California Special District focused on creating recreational opportunities that bring friends and families together to have fun and build lasting memories. CARD manages and cares for more than 12 community and neighborhood parks, four community centers, one swimming pool, the Chico Creek Nature Center, and other facilities. The PLAY Activity Guide highlights the numerous sports, classes, camps, special events, and more CARD offers. Learn more about CARD at http://www.chicorec.gov/.