The dedicated souls who keep Colorado's natural wonders thriving and safe for wildlife and people alike were justly celebrated recently. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), alongside the Colorado State Parks Employee Protective Association (CSPEPA) and the Colorado Wildlife Employees Protective Association (CWEPA), lauded 29 of their own for exemplary service. The award ceremony, not just a pat on the back, honored a diverse group of public servants, officers, rangers, and staff, whose commitment, literally life-risking at times, goes beyond the call of duty.
At the heart of Colorado Parks and Wildlife are the employees whose day-to-day actions actively shape and safeguard the state's lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems. CPW Director Jeff Davis articulated this sentiment well, "Our employees are the heart of Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and their unwavering dedication to protecting our state’s natural resources and citizens is truly inspiring," he said, as per CPW. These accolades, he emphasized, were not only a nod to their expertise but also a salute to their courage, leadership, and "selfless service."
Among the honored was Ross McGee, named the John D. Hart Wildlife Officer of the Year for his innovative conservation efforts and his keen handling of complex wildlife challenges. He played a key part in opening up significant acreage for public use and hunting, among other achievements. On the other end of the spectrum, you have the lifeguards and disaster responders like Park Rangers Tyler Hall, Kyra Zerucha, and William Wayman, who were awarded for their life-saving efforts during a severe storm at Chatfield Reservoir. Their extraordinary measures ensured the safety of individuals and pets amid treacherous conditions, as reported by CPW.
Delving into individual feats, CPW reported several astounding acts of bravery. One such story is that of Lake Pueblo Park Ranger Josh Klosheim, who courageously responded to a shooting, securing the scene and providing critical medical care under dangerous circumstances back in June 2024. Also deserving of high praise is Area 8 Assistant Area Wildlife Manager Darren Chacon, who, despite recovering from a knee injury, ventured to single-handedly save a trapped driver from a submerged vehicle after a crash. Such stories are a testament to the nerve and valor that CPW staff have to constantly muster in the line of duty.
Reflecting a commitment to nurturing future talent, Cheyenne Mountain Park Ranger Jasmine Wolcott received the CSPEPA Columbine Emerging Leader Award for her exceptional performance and potential as a future leader. On the other side of the career spectrum, Boyd Lake Park Manager Eric Grey was bestowed with the Lifetime Achievement Award for over a quarter-century of stewardship and visitor safety. Each story, each act of service, reveals the many ways CPW employees contribute to the community and the environment they cherish.
Wrapping up the honoree list are the CWEPA award recipients like Statewide K-9 Program Coordinator Ian Petkash, recognized for his lifesaving efforts after finding an elderly hunter stranded in the snow. The Medal of Valor was awarded to Area 18 District Wildlife Manager Stuart Sinclair for his bravery during a fire rescue. Innovation and dedication to wildlife protection were also highlighted, with the Jon Wangnild Memorial Wildlife Case of the Year going to a team lauded for their intensive investigative work on a poaching case.
