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Park Rangers 'Abolished,' Leader says
Carl Orth/SUNCOAST NEWS
Paul Van Schaick, the chief of the Pasco County park ranger program, at left in this photo from July taken at the Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, says the volunteer organization has been “abolished” as of Nov. 29. Seen with Van Schaick are rangers Harold Willard, center, and Dave Miller.
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Published: November 29, 2007
NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. - NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. - The Pasco County park ranger program apparently has ended abruptly today, according to the man in charge of the 4-month-old volunteer organization.
Chief Patrol Ranger Paul Van Schaick, a retired Massachusetts State Police officer, sent a letter to the County Commission Thursday announcing the cancellation of the ranger program, which had 18 volunteers.
"I am sorry to report that the Pasco County Ranger Patrol will cease operation due to a lack of support from the park director," Van Schaick wrote in his letter.
The Web site of the group shows a note in large, red lettering that says "Department Abolished 11/29/07."
It was unclear if just Van Schaick or all park rangers are quitting, or if the County Parks and Recreation Department will try to salvage the program in some other form.
As of mid-morning, Frederick J. "Rick" Buckman, the county parks and recreation director, had not responded to a request for a comment on the apparent end of the park ranger programs.
Updates will be filed as more information becomes available.
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