The South Dakota Division of Parks and Recreation recently recognized several individuals for their dedication and hard work to the state parks system. The awards were made at the division’s annual meeting held last month (Dec. 2023).
Awards of Appreciation were presented to Jim Henning and John Murphy.
District conservation officer supervisor John Murphy was presented with an award of appreciation for his role in coordinating law enforcement services for Pierre area parks. “John initiated several procedures that improved law enforcement efficiency, presence, and effectiveness,” said regional supervisor Pat Buscher, “He was a visible and committed presence in the parks, and he greatly appreciated by the park staff.”
Jim Henning was recognized for his outstanding dedication and commitment to the conservation and management of Good Earth State Park. “Jim is great at navigating the needs of visitors while still maintaining the park to the highest level and standard,” said district supervisor, Jason Baumann.
Distinguished Service Award.
Henning.
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A Teamwork Award was presented to Shane Swenson, Bailey Biegler, Jason Cox, and Mark Crawford, who organized a training event at Spring Creek Recreation Area north of Pierre. The event provided hands-on training in carpentry and general construction. “Two dozen park employees from across the state came together to help with the renovations of the two cabins at Spring Creek,” VanMeeteren said. “This training is beneficial to career development while making real improvements to a park that will be enjoyed by many visitors.”
Teamwork Award for training done at Spring Creek.
Crawford.
Image courtesy.
Teamwork Award for training done at Spring Creek.
Biegler, Cox and Swenson.
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Another Teamwork Award was presented to Chris Corder, Forrest Chapman, Doug Boes, Katelyn Mann, Paul Sedlmajer, Ryan Raynor, Kyle Potter, Keith Garrigan, and Carter Knecht, who worked together to improve fishing and boating in Ft. George, De Grey, West Bend, Joe Creek, Oahe Downstream, and Lake Louise. “The Division is very grateful and proud of these efforts,” VanMeeteren said.
Teamwork Award for creating better access to fishing.
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The 2023 Seasonal Employee of the Year is Tom Zerr. Tom worked seasonally at Indian Creek Recreation Area near Mobridge for 17 years as a campground supervisor. “Tom began his second career in parks after retiring as a school teacher,” said Indian Creek park manager Dan Richards. “He brings many of his teaching and education skills to bear in the form of providing programs for park visitors, working in the front office, and assisting park staff with his extensive knowledge of tree planting and maintenance. . Tom is always eager to show off the park. It is important to him that the first impression of visitors is positive.”
The Distinguished Service award was presented to Willy Collignon. Willy served the Division of Parks and Recreation for nearly 30 years working on the George S. Mickelson Trail, Angostura Recreation Area, and most recently as Regional Park Supervisor in northeastern South Dakota. “Willy is a leader in the Parks Division who has taken on many large projects this past year and can be relied upon to get them to the finish line,” VanMeeteren said. “He was also the first in line to try something new and go through the process of shaping it for the Division.”
John and Sue Hefner received the 2023 Volunteers of the Year award. The Hefners have volunteered as Pease Creek Recreation Area campground hosts for ten years. “During their service, they have contributed greatly to the success of Pease Creek by making connections with the surrounding community and the campers,” said district supervisor Kris Monroe. “John and Sue exemplify the dedication and importance of state park volunteers.”
Innovative Programming Award.
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Distinguished Service Award.
Image courtesy.
