As the Supervisory Park Ranger at Abiquiu Lake, in northern New Mexico, Eric Garner put an emphasis on building and sustaining partnerships, and growing the volunteer program. His tireless efforts led to a 300% increase in volunteerism. He involved the Santa Fe Audubon Society, The Espanola Wildlife Center, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, Ghost Ranch, Kansas University, youth groups and even private citizens in numerous activities including the Mid-Winter Eagle Watch and the development of the Abiquiu Lake Vista turnout. Increased volunteerism has led to more collaboration and a better understanding of policies by the public. One partnership led to a volunteer project that created a child’s board game and interpretive exhibit at the Corps Abiquiu Project’s Information Center. As a result of Eric’s volunteer undertakings and community outreach efforts, the people of northern New Mexico are starting to see themselves as stakeholders of the public lands and are giving back to their community.

FEDERAL LAND MANAGER – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Eric Garner

Deputy Secretary of the Interior, David Hayes, accepting the award is Eric Garner, joining him, the Chief of Operations for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mike Ensch, and Director of Take Pride in America, Lisa Young.