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In 1978, I made a huge decision to leave my teaching job
in Ohio to move to Montana and see where life would lead
me. I worked seasonal jobs in Glacier National Park for
two summers and substitute taught in between. Then I was
hired permanently with the U.S. Forest Service as a mail
clerk. That job launched a 25-year career inspecting
tree-planting, stand exam, and thinning contracts,
planting trees, and doing other related work. It also
introduced me to my husband, Al Koss, who continues to
work for the Forest Service.
In the 1990s, part of my job involved conducting rare
plant surveys for the Flathead National Forest. Later
while working as the writer/editor for a planning team,
I was asked to start a native plant program for the
Forest. The program partnered with the Bob Marshall
Wilderness Foundation to rehabilitate wilderness
campsites. Between the rare plant surveys and campsite
rehabilitation work, I was able to see much of the Bob
Marshall Wilderness Complex (the Bob Marshall, Great
Bear, and Scapegoat Wildernesses). I consider myself
extremely fortunate to have spent so much time in such
amazing country.
While I explored the wilderness, Al spent 13 years
working at the Spotted Bear Ranger Station. Part of his
job included managing the Great Bear Wilderness trails
and recreation programs. We lived in the ranger’s house
at the Schafer Meadows Ranger Station where my book The
Ghost of Schafer Meadows takes place. I visited Al when
my work took me there or whenever I could hike in for a
weekend or longer. I now volunteer at Schafer Meadows or
other wilderness sites doing rehab work or native seed
collections. I consider Schafer Meadows and Spotted Bear
as extended homes.
I retired in 2004 to explore other passions. I love
hiking, especially with our dog, Dusty, and take every
advantage to visit the mountains of Montana and New
Mexico, where Al now works for the Gila National Forest.
I also enjoy cross-country skiing, reading, and travel.
Writing novels is new to me and very exciting. It has
opened new doors and has introduced me to many wonderful
and generous people whom I now consider my friends. Many
people have asked if I plan to write any sequels to
The Ghost of Schafer Meadows, and the answer is yes.
I have more adventures in mind for Jessie, Oriole,
friends, and family. I am pleased to have so much
interest in my stories.
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