AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- Austin Parks and Recreation says its park rangers and monitors have been verbally and physically assaulted on at least six different occasions during the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting a call to "Spread Kindness, Not COVID."
The incidents include employees being yelled and cursed at, pushed into the lake, threatened with weapons, punched, and pushed to the ground, officials said.
"It takes a toll on individuals trying to share an educational message, to be personally attacked both verbally and physically," said Amanda Ross, PARD Division Manager for Natural Resources. "These employees are there to assist the public, not become an outlet for their frustration."
Park Rangers are trained staff who act as ambassadors to Austin’s park system – helping people who might be lost on a trail, sharing information about how to enjoy parks, and providing educational programming to visitors. They are not commissioned peace officers and do not carry weapons. Park Monitors are staff members who have been temporarily reassigned due to closures within their City divisions. They support Park Rangers by checking reservations, explaining health and safety guidelines, and offering basic park information to visitors.
"During these difficult times we would ask for some grace and understanding as the park system reopens," said PARD Assistant Director Lucas Massie. "This is new territory for us all."
Travis County Parks has also made modifications to their operations, and while they haven’t experienced incidents like the City has, they echo the same message.
"We understand it can be frustrating when Travis County Parks have to close once they reach capacity, but we have these measures in place to ensure everyone's well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic," said Charles Bergh, Travis County Parks Director. "Please know that our hard-working staff is there to help you enjoy Travis County parks safely and whenever possible. In return, we ask that you do your part by wearing face coverings when needed and staying six feet from one another as much as possible to help flatten the COVID-19 curve."
“If you see something, say something by calling 311, or 911,” said Austin Park Ranger Program Manager LeAnn Ishcomer. "Austin is an extraordinary community, and we have been through so much together this year. We are asking for your support in making our Parks and public spaces safe for everyone in this community."