What does it really mean to serve? It’s a question I’ve been repeatedly asking myself since my first day of orientation. Before I started at the Squam Lakes Association, I used to think of “service” as a series of obligations; tasks I had to knock out to get through the work week. But the longer I’m here, the more that definition starts to change. I’m beginning to realize that service isn’t really about a “checklist” at all. It’s more about the mindset I bring to the office every morning. It’s a quiet commitment to the watershed, a way of looking at this landscape as not just a place where I work, but as a living system I’m lucky enough to help look after.
My weeks here are rarely the same, which admittedly, took some time adjusting to. Some days are all about technical focus, like my recent SCUBA diving and Weed Control training. Honestly, those training sessions were definitely a challenge for me. It required a level of focus I haven't tapped into in a long time. Even though I myself haven't had the chance to remove Variable Milfoil yet, the experience taught me so much about the "behind-the-scenes" side of conservation. Learning to navigate and stay steady underwater is all about protecting the lake in ways that most people, even those enjoying the water right above me, will likely never see. It’s a humbling, quiet kind of work that I’m learning to appreciate.
Then there are the days I spend hosting out on the trails or the lake, and that’s a totally different experience. This side of the service is all about the people. I’ve realized that being a “face” for the SLA is just as important as the scientific work. Whether I’m chatting with a visitor about the importance of boat cleaning or talking with a hiker about a cool bird they saw on the trail, I’m building connections. It’s the difference between the "how-to" of conservation and the "why." If SCUBA diving is the technical side of the mission, this is the human side.
When I look at it all together, I no longer see two separate jobs. I see one big effort to be a good advocate for the Squam watershed. I’m learning to be flexible, to trust that I’m doing what needs to be done on any given day, whether that’s focusing on SCUBA diving or engaging with the community.
I’m still growing into this role, but I feel like I’m finally finding my rhythm. It’s not about doing anything heroic; it’s about showing up consistently and with heart. Every day here is a chance to play my part in preserving the beauty of Squam; one dive, one boat ride, and one conversation at a time.
Diego is serving with the Squam Lakes Association as an Education and Outreach Assistant. He is originally from New York and is a former audio engineer. He is now committed to a career in environmental conservation, with the goal of working for the National Park Service. Learn more about him here.