#PeopleOfInterior: BLM - New Mexico Park Ranger Enrico “Rico” Smith

Join us in showcasing the rich diversity of the people fulfilling the mission of the Bureau of Land Management. We are proud of the people and the work we do and seek to highlight the professionalism and dedication of our employees.

The “#PeopleofInterior” tells the stories of our employees who are connected across the lands that we manage and conserve, who build on the strength we have as a diverse community of professionals, and who show why we are the best place to work in the federal government.

Today, we are highlighting BLM-New Mexico's Park Ranger Enrico “Rico” Smith.

Which public land is your favorite? Why do you love that place?

I’ve visited many beautiful and meaningful public lands in this country throughout my life for work and for leisure. First, as a member of the U.S. Coast Guard and now as a Bureau of Land Management Park Ranger, Wildland Firefighter, and Fire Information Officer. However, BLM-managed Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument (OMDP) is the closest to my heart. For over two decades, I have had special experiences here. I have climbed, hiked, camped, and mountain biked with friends and family. My friends, my son, and I have completed numerous mountain bike races on these trails. I love waking up before sunrise and going out to enjoy a ride in OMDP before work. The best part is that I can give back to my favorite public lands through my work as a ranger and help others enjoy it, too.

What is inspiring about working at Interior or What do you love about your work at Interior?

My work at Interior, and specifically the BLM, is about protecting the natural and cultural resources on public lands and improving access to public lands for ALL visitors. I am proud of being able to represent DOI and the BLM as a Black park ranger. There are not many people of color working in this field of recreation. It’s important for me to be visible and underscore the importance of diversity in the outdoors. My hope is that people are no longer surprised when they see me in my uniform and that young people of color know that America’s public lands are for them, too.