The PA Parks and Forests Foundation Monday announced the opening of nominations for its annual awards to recognize exemplary work in state parks and forests by staff and volunteers. Nominations are due December 19.

The awards program is designed to highlight service in the parks and forests that improves the quality of life in Pennsylvania and protects the state’s natural assets for future generations.

Nominations can include state parks or forests of the year, plus awards go to community leaders and volunteers who make a difference in the following areas:

-- Park of the Year—Recognizes a park for exemplary or innovative work in customer service; education, programming, or recreation; stewardship of the natural, cultural or historic assets; and/or accommodation of special needs of visitors.

-- Forest of the Year—Recognizes a forest district for innovative and exemplary work in both forest management and recreation for a wide range of activities including healthful, low-density recreation, information and assistance to the public and promoting and effectively using volunteers to enhance the Bureau of Forestry's objectives.

-- Volunteerism Awards—Up to three awards can go to organizations or individuals who have made a lasting, positive impression on a state park or forest and have advanced the mission of the PPFF and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.  The categories are: Volunteerism, Improvement and Education.

-- Young Volunteer Award—Recognizes a significant contribution to a park or forest by a person under the age of 25, including volunteer hours, a significant project or an innovative idea.

Award winners will be announced at the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation annual banquet next May at the West Shore Country Club in Camp Hill, PA.

Visit the PA State Parks and Forest Foundation Awards webpage to download the nomination form and eligibility requirements or contact Foundation President Marci Mowery at 717-236-7644 or send email to: mmowery-ppff@pa.net

11/17/2014