Welcome to StrangeArea.com! I’m thrilled to have you here, and I’d like to share a bit about myself and the journey that led to the creation of this site.

Who Am I?

My name is Steve Bates, and my background is in Search Engine Optimization (SEO). I’ve spent years helping businesses enhance their online presence and connect with their audiences. One of my most rewarding collaborations has been with my friends Ryan and Michell King, who own Quest Outdoors—what I believe to be the greatest outdoor store in the Universe. Working with Quest Outdoors has deepened my love for the outdoors and all the incredible gear that makes adventures possible.

The Birth of StrangeArea.com

In my quest for a domain focused on gear, I stumbled upon StrangeArea.com. The name immediately resonated with me—not only does it cleverly contain “gear” right in the middle, but it also evokes a sense of adventure and curiosity about the world’s many unique places. It felt like the perfect fit, a site where I could combine my passions for outdoor gear, strange and wonderful locations, and creating content that makes a difference.

Our Mission

At StrangeArea.com, we’re not just about showcasing and reviewing outdoor gear. We aim to inspire exploration, promote environmental stewardship, and provide you with the best information to make your adventures safe and enjoyable. This site is a blend of my interests: the great outdoors, being on the water, exploring strange areas with my kids, saving the planet, and, of course, drones and all things gear-related.

A New Path Forward

I’m at a pivotal point in my career. Rather than focusing solely on business success, I’m committed to making a positive impact on the world. This has led me to pursue a GIS certificate at Oregon State University, which will be a stepping stone toward a PhD in Environmental Science. My goal is to use remote sensing technology and data to solve pressing environmental issues and contribute to preserving our planet.

Funding Education and Paying It Forward

This site is also my way of funding my education. Every time you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, the earnings go directly toward my tuition at OSU. Once my education is paid for, any additional earnings will be used to help others fund their education—paying it forward to support the next generation of environmental stewards.

Join Us on This Journey

I appreciate every reader, every click, and every act of kindness you extend to others. Your support not only helps me pursue my dreams but also contributes to a larger mission of exploration, education, and environmental preservation.

Thank you for being a part of the StrangeArea.com community. Together, let’s explore the strange, cherish the wonderful, and make a positive impact on our world.

I put a lot of work into Strange Area, if you find this information was helpful in your purchasing decision, I encourage you to purchase through one of our affiliate links, at zero extra cost to you. This support allows me to continue providing the best deep dives, reviews and content for you. I appreciate your support!