- Lyle

One Lucky Woman

       When I approached the dogs of Denali and met their handler, I assumed that she was simply hired on as a dog trainer or handler for the demonstrations. But when I struck a conversation with Emily Iacabucci, I found that it was “a whole different ball game” when the dogs were truly needed. The true nature of the job that Emily has is shown in her work during the winter, at which time the dog sled demonstrations end and the real gritty work begins for both dogs and handlers. During the winter, the rangers must go out into the snow and cold to make contact with any winter visitors and make sure that they are safe. The rangers must also transport supplies for the wilderness outposts and for building projects. Emily was introduced to the job she currently holds after filling out an application through the student conservation association, which earned her an internship, and volunteering in the winters. Emily graduated with a biology degree and came here from Massachusetts, and ”stuck on it.” She has worked with the rangers for three years, and spent all of them working with the Denali Rangers, except for one winter with the California Department of Natural Resources using her biology degree.
            Emily Iacabucci is a lucky woman. She has become hooked by one of the most beautiful places in the world, just as I have, and she would apparently have it no other way. She has not been hurt nor had any serious problems in the park. She has an amazing job working with animals, one that she loves despite the difficulties of it. She obviously finds great rewards in her work educating the public, helping those in the park who need it, and working with the amazing dogs of Denali.