He’s been at the forefront of conservation and ecological research, applying the skills he developed at Cal Poly Humboldt to protect and manage one of the world’s most iconic landscapes. His early-life fascination with the natural world—sparked by nature shows like “Wild Kingdom” and “Undersea World” by Jacques Cousteau—evolved into a lifelong commitment to studying and preserving the natural world.
Now, as deputy superintendent, his role is dynamic and demanding. From managing park operations, working with multiple partners, addressing daily challenges, and advancing large-scale restoration projects, his days are full. However, Arguello finds fulfillment in shaping the park’s present and future.
“It’s a busy job,” Arguello says. “I get to make decisions that affect the trajectory of the park and its operations, in consultation with staff. It’s rewarding to share what’s been accomplished and envision what’s ahead.”
Growing up in San Francisco and attending high school in San Jose, Arguello had no idea he would one day dedicate his life to studying and protecting Northern California’s iconic redwood old-growth forests and landscapes.
His journey at Cal Poly Humboldt began in 1983 when he was recruited to play basketball.
Initially a wildlife management major, Arguello found his true calling during his third year when he enrolled in a botany course taught by the inspiring Botany Professor Mike Mesler.
“Dr. Mesler’s enthusiasm for plants, plant ecology, and his ability to highlight the beauty in small, often overlooked details of plant morphology was transformative for me,” Arguello says. His passion for plants deepened, leading him to switch his major to botany and later pursue a master’s degree in the same field.
While Arguello excelled academically, he balanced his studies with an active campus life, meeting a host of new people and ideas, and continuing participation in recreational basketball leagues. He fondly remembers his first-year dormitory on The Hill and the camaraderie he found in the local community. However, his true connection to Humboldt County was forged outdoors. Summers working at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area and Richardson Grove State Park introduced him to the majesty of the region’s redwood groves. Living on-site, hiking trails, and swimming in the rivers left a lasting impression.
“Those summers cemented my love for the outdoors,” he says.
In 1988, Arguello began his career with Redwood National and State Parks, initially as a seasonal employee and later transitioning to a permanent position. In 1989, he completed his undergraduate degree in ecology and started his graduate studies. His master’s thesis focused on the effects of prescribed burning in the Bald Hills, a system of coastal grassland and oak woodlands in Redwood National and State Parks, where he explored the impact on native and non-native grasses.
“I became the ‘grass guy’ for the park,” Arguello says, reflecting on his expertise in identifying local grass species and his knack for merging his interests in fire management and botany.
Promoted to supervisory botanist in 2000, he spearheaded innovative programs like forest restoration to revitalize degraded lands. By 2015, he had become division chief, overseeing yjr natural resource management program. A major milestone was the establishment of Redwood Rising, a collaborative initiative to restore forests and watersheds in partnership with California State Parks, Save the Redwoods League, and the Yurok Tribe. Restoring a vast and diverse landscape like Redwood National and State Parks requires careful planning and innovative thinking.
In 2023, he assumed the role of deputy superintendent, supervising key operational programs such as resource management, fire management, and planning/compliance programs, while continuing to lead large-scale projects like Redwoods Rising, the restoration of the Redwood Creek estuary, and collaborative efforts with Indigenous nations. These projects exemplify his commitment to ecological preservation and community engagement.
Looking back at his career, he credits Humboldt for equipping him with critical thinking and communication skills. The University provided a foundation for his career and personal growth, offering opportunities to explore, question, and develop solutions.
"Humboldt was a training ground for critical thinking and writing. It taught me how to write thoughtfully and consider what I was putting on paper,” Arguello says.
His advice to prospective students is to embrace education as a transformative journey, whether at Humboldt or elsewhere. "Don’t let others dictate your path," he says. "College is about learning how to think critically and communicate effectively—skills that serve you for life."
Today, he is grateful for a life filled with purpose, a loving family, and a career that has allowed him to protect and restore the natural world he cherishes. Through his work, he continues to inspire the next generation of conservationists and leaders.
Arguello’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the transformative impact of education. From his first botany class to his decades-long career with the National Park Service, his journey reflects the spirit of Humboldt: a deep connection to nature, a dedication to learning, and a commitment to leaving the world better than he found it.