Alberta Parks' awards celebrate volunteerism

Recipients honoured at annual conference

The Government of Alberta recognized four individuals and one organization for their volunteerism, stewardship and hospitality at the annual Alberta Parks volunteer conference on September 14 to 16.

Nominations for Alberta Parks volunteer awards were submitted by park volunteers, staff and the general public. Award winners were honoured for dedicating their time and talent to preserve and enhance provincial parks as a legacy for current and future visitors:

Victor and Frances Grimbly (Onoway) - Campground Host Hospitality Award Victor and Frances Grimbly have put their hearts and souls into being campground hosts at Carson-Pegasus Provincial Park, north of Whitecourt, since they started volunteering ten years ago. They spend countless hours visiting with guests, offering advice on park activities and sharing their knowledge of the area. Whether coordinating events or picking up garbage, their passion for parks sets an example for all Albertans.

Hinton Nordic Skiers (Hinton) - Facility Enhancement Award
The Athabasca Lookout Nordic Centre, in William A. Switzer Provincial Park northwest of Hinton, was founded in 1985 with the support of the local community. This world-class facility provides 35 kilometres of well-maintained cross-country ski trails, plus a day lodge and warm-up shelters. The facilities, events and programs hosted there are a credit to the Hinton Nordic Skiers. This volunteer organization promotes Nordic skiing as a healthy, environmentally friendly activity that encourages Albertans to get outdoors and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Jeff Burgess and Denis Grenier (Grande Cache) - Facility Enhancement Award Jeff Burgess and Denis Grenier have been helping to make sure users have access to the trails in Pierre Grey's Lakes Provincial Park, east of Grande Cache, for more than 20 years. Despite busy schedules, they find time in the fall to clear trails. During evenings and days off, all winter long, they operate track-setting equipment to allow cross-country skiers in the area to have a safe, dependable location to ski.

Each year, more than 2,500 Albertans volunteer more than 100,000 hours to assist with provincial parks' programs. Volunteers are involved in customer service and conservation efforts including greeting park visitors and assisting in educational programming, maintenance, administration and scientific research. If you would like to volunteer in provincial parks, email parks.volunteer@gov.ab.ca.

The Alberta Parks system covers 27,678 square kilometres. These parks preserve important ecological areas and provide places where people can enjoy and learn about Alberta's natural heritage. For more information, visit www.albertaparks.ca.