02/13/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/13/2024 11:54
"Volunteers are essential for the BLM to achieve our mission of sustaining the health, diversity, and productivity of America's public lands," said State Director Doug Vilsack, "For his dedication, enthusiasm, and hard work on our recreation resources, we're proud to recognize Chris Brandt as the 2023 BLM Colorado Volunteer of the Year."
Mr. Brandt's work with the Red Hill Council includes leading efforts to improve mud season messaging, including securing a Ski-Co grant to help fund a 'mud meter sign' for the Red Hill trailhead. The Red Hill Council is a non-profit group dedicated to promoting good stewardship, volunteerism, and good user ethics at the Red Hill Special Recreation Management Area. Mr. Brandt also led many other projects, including performing critical trail maintenance, educating users to clean up after their pets and designing trail maps to be placed throughout the Red Hill trail system. Mr. Brandt has volunteered for the BLM since 2009.
"It is nice to be acknowledged for something I've been doing without any expectation of getting anything back, aside from the satisfaction and positive feelings associated with doing something meaningful in our community," said Brandt. "I appreciate having had the opportunity to work with so many other passionate volunteers, and it is nice to have support from the BLM."
The BLM works with thousands of volunteers who offer their time, skills, and service to help care for the nation's natural and cultural resources. Volunteers contribute to many BLM program areas, including recreation, wild horses and burros, cultural and historical resources, and environmental education. BLM volunteers work to protect the significant resources in the diverse communities we serve.
For more information about volunteering for BLM Colorado visit https://www.blm.gov/get-involved/volunteers.