Volunteers Were Valuable To State Parks In 1998

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Volunteers once again proved extremely valuable to the operation of Montana’s state park system in 1998. They donated 47,235 hours of time during the 1998 park season to assist with services at Montana’s state parks. The numbers of volunteers have increased from just over 1,100 in 1997 to 1,395 this year. That assistance has saved Fish, Wildlife & Parks funds equivalent to the wages of nearly 23 full-time employees. According to Doug Monger, administrator of FWP’s Parks Division in Helena, the accelerated use of volunteers in state parks has allowed the state to efficiently stretch dollars during tough economic times, while maintaining some important public services. The volunteers serve as campground hosts, visitor center attendants, naturalists and helpers on special projects. "Their individual contributions range from a few hours of assistance to several months of work," Monger said, "and their support is greatly appreciated by both the visitors to the parks and park system employees." "This is a genuine reflection of the giving spirit of the American people," Monger continued. "When we ask our volunteers why they donate time to the Montana park system, both residents and nonresidents respond with similar answers: Montana is such a beautiful, unique and historical place, we want to help keep it this way so future generations may enjoy it as much as we have.’ That pretty much sums it up for all of us involved with state parks."