Honouring Park Volunteers
The Alberta government recognized eight individuals and one organization for their volunteerism, stewardship and hospitality at the annual Alberta Parks Volunteer Conference on September 19.
The year’s conference, with the theme Sacred Landscapes – Caring Spirits, celebrated the connection between land and people. Albertans were honoured for dedicating their time and talent in preserving, protecting and enhancing provincial parks as a legacy for future generations. Awards in four categories were distributed, based on nominations received from Albertans, parks staff, volunteers and partners.
2009 Provincial Award Recipients:
- Campground Host Hospitality Award: Leonard and Eleanor Rondeau (Granum)
- Campground Host Hospitality Award: Frank and Arol Longhurst (Calgary)
- Campground Host Hospitality Award: Ken and Pat Hatt (Trochu)
- Staff Lifetime Volunteerism Achievement Award: Don Cockerton (Calgary)
- Outstanding Individual Steward Award: Gertie Meyer (Onoway)
- Outstanding Group Steward Award: Medicine Hat College (Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership Program)
Each year, more than 2500 Albertans volunteer more than 100,000 hours of their time to assist with parks programs. Volunteers are involved in customer service and conservation efforts, including greeting park visitors, assisting in educational programming, and assisting with scientific research, maintenance and administration.
For more information about Alberta's provincial parks, visit www.albertaparks.ca.
(Back row: Robert Peake (alternate for Ken and Pat Hatt), Arol and Frank Longhurst, Leonard and Eleanor Rondeau, Gertie Meyer. Front row: Nicole Dancey (alternate for Medicine Hat College), Don Cockerton)
