Meet our Team: Meta Dittmer

Name: Meta Dittmer
Job Title: Communication and Education Program Coordinator

Where were you born/raised and what brought you to Teton County?

Born and raised in Berkeley, CA.
Worked as a Park Ranger in Yellowstone National Park for 3 seasons and fell in love with western WY.

What has been the most rewarding part of your job or a favorite project you've been a part of and why?

There are many rewarding parts of my job, but one of my favorites has been partnering with teachers at Munger Mountain Elementary School to provide science programs in Spanish and English in their dual immersion classes. I have studied science and foreign languages throughout my life. Now I get to teach kids the science behind what we do at TCWP and do it in Spanish! It has been my favorite part of this
job.

If you could rid Teton County of one invasive weed or pest, which would it be and why?

The pest I fear the most is not yet in Wyoming – Zebra and Quagga mussels. My husband is from Michigan and he describes how the lakes he grew up swimming in have changed since mussels were introduced. Wyoming is one of the few states that does not yet have these invaders and most recreators take our pristine waters for granted.

If you could influence every adult in Teton County to practice "Play Clean GO" which habit would you most advocate for and why?

I would influence every adult in Teton County to practice PCG while recreating around water, especially when they are visiting other areas on vacations. They need to drain, clean, and dry their boats and gear so they do not spread AIS into pristine waters.

Who has been the most influential person in your life and what have they inspired you to do?

My father has been the most influential person in my life. He taught me to march to my own drummer and to prioritize the things that bring me happiness.

What motivates you to work hard and why?

I am motivated to work hard if I feel what I am doing is important in the 'big picture' or will make the world better somehow.