Richard Devries

Background

About Richard Devries

University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Specializes in management and restoration of natural habitats at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, a 1200 acre public garden. Responsible for the control of invasive species and reintroduction of native species in different ecosystems such as, but not limited to: prairies, wetlands and forests. Maintain the trail system, felling trees and clean up storm damage. Supervise and conduct prescribed burns in a safe and efficient manner. Direct crews and volunteers with a variety of tasks including planting, seeding, spraying, weeding, mowing and cutting trees. Manage, expand and improve the Maple Syrup program. Responsible for tapping 300 Sugar Maple trees and cooking high quality Maple syrup. Guide staff and volunteers in the process from start to finish. Educate the public by organizing open houses and conducting tours. Proficient at operating and trouble shooting a wide variety of large and small equipment from loaders to chainsaws. Minnesota DNR Suppress wildfires in the wildland-urban interface. Protect structures and fight fires of various sizes and fuel types. Work efficiently in large and small crews on wildfires as well as prescribed burns. Certified firefighter type 2 and sawyer type 3.