The DNR Division of State Parks recently honored volunteers, partners, and employees for their commitment to conserve, manage and interpret resources while creating memorable experiences for guests in 2020.
Partnership Awards recognize cooperative efforts by a property and a community organization to support projects and facilities that serve property guests. Two were presented which included a local award to:
• A Year to Volunteer was recognized for work on projects in partnership with Versailles State Park staff, including the construction of a large observation deck at Bradt Natural Area, trail construction, replacement of flooring in the group camp recreation hall, and other projects. This group, led by Char and Phil Roos, brought skilled volunteers from across the country to complete these projects.
Awards were also presented to several individual State Parks employees. Local awards went to:
• Billie Snell of Carrollton, Kentucky was Inns Field Employee of the Year for his skill set and work ethic, which saved Clifty Inn and Clifty Falls State Park dollars and time. His projects included new HVAC line/ducts in the kitchen, repairing roofs, and installing internet cabling.
• Garrett McAdams of Versailles was Assistant Property Manager of the Year for his leadership at Versailles State Park. He excelled in the oversight of property operations, including work with the Year to Volunteer group that spent a month serving at the park.
• Brad Walker of Madison was Property Manager of the Year for his leadership in spearheading major improvements in trails, comfort stations, energy efficiency, hazard tree removal and vista clearing to improve the guest experience of viewing waterfalls and Clifty Canyon.
