National Park Service Pacific West Regional Director Chris Lehnertz recently announced the 2012 Pacific West Regional Director's Awards for Natural Resource Management. Two of the recipients are based in Sedro-Woolley. Dr. Jon Riedel received the award for "Natural Resource Management" and Steve Gibbons received the award for "Professional Excellence in Natural Resources."
Dr. Jon Riedel, North Cascades National Park geologist, has been recognized for three significant accomplishments. First, he led the team that, over the course of four years, developed the Stehekin River Corridor Implementation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement. This comprehensive planning effort uses the best available science to protect natural and cultural resources, support the private community of Stehekin, and establish sustainable administrative facilities - all while continuing to provide high-quality recreational experiences for the public. Second, he developed the landmark North Cascades Glacier Monitoring Program. This program, which is in its 20th year, has set the standard for glacier monitoring in the National Park Service and is at the forefront of understanding the impacts of climate change on the North Cascades ecosystem. Third, he has passionately served as a teacher and mentor. He uses his extensive professional knowledge to serve as an informative and entertaining instructor for youth and adults. He also inspires youth to consider science-based careers through his work with the North Cascades Institute, including the nationally renowned Cascades Climate Challenge.
Steve Gibbons, National Park Service Pacific West Region natural resource specialist, duty-stationed in Sedro-Woolley, has been recognized for two significant accomplishments. First, during his 20 years as the Pacific West Region National Natural Landmarks coordinator, he has successfully collaborated with National Natural Landmark managers to earn matching grants totaling over $380,000 and accomplish over 35 projects that include interpretive exhibits, trail improvements, restoration projects, weed control, evaluation reports, signage, and informational books and brochures. Second, as co-coordinator for the Pacific West Region threatened and endangered species program, he has provided effective leadership and vision for the protection of federal and state-listed species managed in and near national parks.
There are two other recipients of 2012 Pacific West Regional Director's Awards for Natural Resource Management. William Dickinson from Lake Mead National Recreation Area received the award for "Superintendent of the Year for Natural Resource Stewardship" and Thomas J. Lemmer from Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area received the award for "Natural Resource Stewardship through Maintenance."
