The Park ranger is part of a scientific team involved in the study of many species of plants and animals; his many observations in the field - such as counting the ibex and chamois - are invaluable for research.

Sometimes his specialist botanical knowledge is called on for inventories in sensitive, fragile zones or for the care of the area around threatened species. As an experienced ornithologist, he also contributes to the knowledge of the moutain birds.
The park ranger plays his part in the reintroduction of species such as the ibex in the massifs of the Ecrins and the Vercors.

Protecting also means enforcing the Park regulations. The ranger makes sure that visitors respect the rules which protect the animals and the natural environment. He may have to employ dissuasive measures such as fines or prosecution. Getting to know and understand the environment is the best way for people to appreciate and take care of it, so the ranger does his best to transmit his knowledge and to welcome visitors to the park.

Working closely with the wardens of the park refuges, the ranger takes part in the missions to maintain and improve the buildings. He also ensures their supervision in winter when there are no wardens.
Before summer, he installs markers, signposts and footbridges.

Guided hill-walks and evening slide shows are organised. Finally, activities with school-groups are increasing, improving and diversifying.

Completely integrated into the local life, he plays a great part in many sports events and fairs as well as mountain rescue and the missions of the park to the communes of the peripheral zone. If you meet him as he is winding his way along a path or during an evening at the refuge, he may share his knowledge of the park, his job, the wild animals and his region.