In Montana State Parks People Are Making The Difference

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State Parks showcase Montana’s historical, geological and recreational treasures, but people are one of the biggest assets at these parks according to Parks Division Administrator, Doug Monger of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. "State parks are a people intensive operation. From our 1,504 volunteers to our regular and part time employees -- there are many people behind the scenes making state parks the great recreational opportunities that they are." Monger recently recognized some of these individuals for their outstanding contributions. Marty Watkins, of Kalispell, received the Parks Professional of the Year Award for her continued innovative and enthusiastic promotion and stewardship of the parks. Watkins began as a front desk secretary, put herself through night school, and eventually graduated with a master’s degree in park management and administration. Today, as regional parks manager for northwestern Montana, Watkins is recognized for her outstanding performance and her perseverance in making this major career advancement. Bob and Margaret Moddison of Great Falls received the Outstanding Contributing Citizen Award in recognition of their generous support of Montana State Parks. Their company, North Country Media, produced video documentaries on some of the state’s major parks and then went on to donate most of the production costs as a gift to the state. Margaret Moddison continues her commitment to FWP, serving as a member of the FWP Foundation board of directors. Also recognized were Andy Roy and Katie Hall, FWP employees in Missoula, who received the Montana State Parks Safety Achievement Award for saving the life of a person who nearly drowned in the Blackfoot River downstream from the Round Up Fishing Access Site. Sue Daly, a Helena FWP employee, received recognition for her outstanding financial and legislative assistance. And Dick Ellis, a retired FWP employee living in Billings, received the Lifetime Achievement Award for superior work over his career. Kalispell FWP employee Jerry Sawyer took the Innovative Enhancement Award for his visionary approach to establishing the Flathead Lake Marine Trail. Ken Soderberg, Marcella Sherfy and Krys Holmes, Helena FWP employees and Dave Todd, FWP regional parks manager in Great Falls were recognized for their work in completing the Ulm Pishkun Visitor Center.