The PA Parks and Forests Foundation announces its 2013 award winners.  The Foundation established the awards program in 2007 to recognize outstanding service, programs and exemplary work in state parks and forests. 

Winners will be honored at the 7th annual banquet on May 7 at the West Shore Country Club in Camp Hill.

The Award winners by category are:

-- Cliff Jones Keystone Legacy Award, sponsored by Recreation Equipment Inc. - This year’s winner is the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy for their dedication to land, water and natural resource conservation; their commitment to beautification through gardens and tree plantings; and their conservation policy work.

-- President’s Award, sponsored by Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce - This year’s winners are John and Jan Halter for their work with Special Olympics kayaking in Codorus State Park.

-- Joe Ibberson Government Award, sponsored by Chesapeake Energy - This year’s winner is Rep. William Adolph (R-Delaware) for his commitment to recreation and conservation, and his leadership on the preservation of the Keystone Fund.

-- Park of the Year, sponsored by Saul Ewing LLP - This year’s winner is French Creek State Park for the staff’s commitment to recreation through diverse programming, trail development, maintenance of the park, strong ability to balance demands with conservation, and innovative partnerships.

-- Forest of the Year, sponsored by Dominion - This year’s winner is Tiadaghton State Forest for the staff’s work in educating the public about the recreational, environmental and cultural importance of state forests and the ability to balance the multiple uses of forest lands.

-- Friends Group or Volunteer Awards - three awards are given for recognition of achievements made by friends groups.  These include awards for volunteerism, improvement, and education.

Improvements Award, sponsorship available- goes to Paul Yost and the Friends of Milton State Park for their work in reestablishing the trails on the island and managing invasive plants

-- Volunteerism Award, sponsored by PPL- goes to Nockamixon Trail Group for their efforts clearing, blazing and improving trails in Nockamixon State Park

-- Education Award, sponsorship available- goes to Pat and Carl Leinbach for their assistance at King’s Gap Environmental Education Center and Michaux State Forest  guiding tours, leading hikes, and fundraising for programs and youth education

-- Young Volunteer Award, sponsorship available –This year’s winner is Hailey Freeman, for her assistance as a summer extern at Pine Grove Furnace State Park. She developed a historical walking tour, facilitated programs, and developed a park calendar.

Founded in 1999, the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation supports 120 state parks and 2.2 million acres of forest by coordinating volunteers, activities and donations through its 34 chapters. The nonprofit promotes outdoor recreation, healthier lifestyles and environmental education.

The Foundation invites interested citizens to visit the website to learn more about the banquet.  For information on sponsoring an award or the reception, please visit the Foundation website or contact Marci Mowery at 717-236-7644 or send email to: mmowery-ppff@pa.net.

NewsClip: Parks & Forests Foundation To Honor Volunteers

2/25/2013