Outdoor Innovations: Susan Buxton

By Amber Hawes 

Our lab and the College of Natural Resources (CNR) had the honor of hosting Susan Buxton, the Director of Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) from November 18^th to November 19^th. This was incredibly significant for our lab and an excellent opportunity for students in our department to learn from such an experienced expert in the field. 

IDPR Director Susan Buxton presenting for the Outdoor Innovations Speaker Series at the Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre. Photo credit: Amber Hawes

Who is Susan Buxton? 

In addition to being the Director of IDPR since 2020, she also served as a member of the IDPR Board from 2012 to 2016 and Administrator for Idaho Division of Human Resources from 2016 to 2020. She is a proud graduate of UI College of Law and prior to joining state government, she had a successful legal career representing government and private clients in matters of law in the areas of natural resources, water, environment, real estate, land use, municipal finance, public works procurement and construction, contracts, business, employment, government relations, litigation, and outdoor recreation.  

What did she do while she was here? 

At 7 pm on November 18^th, Director Buxton gave a presentation at the Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre as part of CNR’s Outdoor Innovations Speaker Series. In her talk she discussed the following: 

• The importance of bringing outdoor recreation stewardship back into the UI CNR department. 

• The importance of having more undergraduate and graduate students in outdoor recreation 

• How COVID-19 drastically increased visitation in Idaho State Parks 

• IDPR’s mission to “Improve the quality of life in Idaho through outdoor recreation and resource stewardship"

• How IDPR is part of a broader leisure and hospitality industry, the second largest employer in the state.

• The economic value of outdoor recreation in Idaho.

• How she worked with state government in order to tackle the significant amount of deferred maintenance at park sites throughout the state including trail work, increased and improved lodging options, and many other park improvements that will make the parks a better place for visitors. 

Director Buxton shares stories of University of Idaho students with whom she has worked with. Photo credit: Amber Hawes

There was no shortage of student questions! With the little remaining time, Director Buxton was able to answer questions regarding tribal co-operation, climate change and increase in forest fires, accessibility, and minimizing human impact on wildlife.  

That is not all Director Buxton did while she was here however! She had a packed schedule. In addition to being an Outdoor Innovation Speaker, Director Buxton was able to meet with faculty and recreation and wellness staff, attend Kerrick Robinson’s dissertation defense, and have lunch with our lab before returning to Boise.  

PRL Lab members and Director Buxton share lunch at Maialina Pizzeria Napoletana. Photo Credit: Amber Hawes

What are the opportunities for learning from outdoor leaders in the future? 

Director Buxton was one of many Outdoor Innovations Speakers we hope to host in the coming semesters. Because the schedule is still being finalized, keep eye out on the PRL website for more information!