University Lake Park
by Nathan Combs
Security Guard, AK State Legislature
What is your favorite park?
University Lake Off Leash Dog Park
Why is this your favorite park?
The combinations of water, tree, and mountain views you can see. I also like the trails in the woods -- you could say it's aesthetically pleasing.
Do you have a favorite University Lake memory?
I have some good memories of cross country skiing but the coolest memory I have from the park was when I was waking in the early morning and I saw this bull moose laying down. All of the sudden it started acting kind of funny, so I turned around and started walking away form it. About ten seconds later the ground started shaking, the trees were swaying back and forth and the ice on the lake started breaking and cracking. The earthquake was that big one that hit Anchorage a couple years ago.
How have you used the park?
I've used the park for cross-country skiing, jogging, and walking my dog.
How long have you been using the park?
I started using it when I went to UAA, so about fi ve years ago.
What are your hopes for the future of the park?
I was glad that they cleared out some of the brush but I hope they don't cut down the trees unless they absolutely have to.
How do you see the role of parks in your community?
Plants absorb carbon dioxide, so they are like a municipal air fi lter. They keep people in physical shape and are destressors.
Interviewed by Josh Berry