The State Parks Division of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, recently honored seven individuals for outstanding service.
“Our State Parks benefit from the help of many people, among them volunteers, local friends groups, interns, legislators, and a committed staff throughout Montana,” said Parks’ chief Doug Monger. "The combined efforts of people behind the scenes help make the State Parks system something Montanans can be proud of."
Award winners include:
*Debbie Cheek, Helena, “Career Achievement." Cheek, a 21-year State Parks veteran, developed FWP’s popular intern and volunteer programs.
*Howard Boggess, Billings, “Outstanding Volunteer.” Boggess is a member of the Chief Plenty Coups State Parks Advisory Council and a park volunteer.
*Doug Smith, Dagmar, “Outstanding Citizen Contributor.” Smith, a member of the new State Park Search Committee, helped identify future State Parks sites in northeastern Montana.
*Senator Dale Mahlum, Missoula, “Outstanding Legislative Contribution.” Mahlum championed legislation that offers residents free entry to State Parks by setting a voluntary $4 vehicle registration fee to help support parks operations.
*Bob Peterson, Decker, “Park Professional of the Year.” Peterson is park manager for Tongue River Reservoir and Rosebud Battlefield State Parks in southeastern Montana.
*Diane Tipton, Helena, “Dedication and Excellence.” Tipton is an FWP information officer honored for informing Montanans about parks’ history, culture and recreational opportunities.
*Steve Gilbert, Helena, "Lifesaving Award." Gilbert, an FWP trails specialist, recently saved an individual stranded on a raft at Redfish Lake in Idaho.
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