Local Inyo National Forest employee recognized
Inyo National South Zone District Ranger, Margaret Wood, is pleased to announce a local Forest Service employee was recently recognized with a significant national award — Hern Crane has been selected as the winner of the 2012 ‘Ranger of the Year Award.’ National Forest Recreation Association President Warren Meyer stated that Crane represents the true spirit of a public private partnership by his professional demeanor, high quality standards, and strong emphasis on caring for both the land and for the visitors to the forest. Crane is currently the South Zone Recreation Manager for concession operations on the Inyo National Forest.
Kelly Moffitt from Recreation Resource Management nominated Crane for the award. “Our company is privileged to work together with Forest Service districts across the country, and we truly feel that Hern Crane exemplifies the spirit of cooperation and teamwork that is necessary for a partnership to be successful.” Moffitt further stated that, “We believe his exemplary contributions to the US Forest Service, to his community, and to the campground concession industry make Hern highly deserving this award.” Will Newman of WESTrek Services echoed these comments. I think he is a model FS representative for managing campground Special Use Permits.”
Crane began his Forest Service career in 1981 on the White Mountain Ranger District, Inyo National Forest trail crew. He since has worked as the developed site manager for the southern portion of the Inyo National Forest. He worked with some of the first campground concession operations in the country and has assisted with the preparation of numerous concession prospectus offerings for the Inyo. He has been the recipient of several Certificate of Merit awards from the Forest Service for his outstanding achievements in recreation management.
Crane was recently honored at the National Forest Recreation Association’s 64th Annual Conference, in Reno. NFRA’s ‘Ranger of the Year’ Award has been presented annually since 1982 to individuals who show personal dedication in the field of recreation management, and exhibit a true sense of partnership with recreation service providers.”This is our opportunity to show our appreciation of outstanding individuals who work ‘above and beyond’ to provide better recreation service to our visitors,” stated Meyer. The association congratulated Hern on this well-deserved recognition for his hard work and dedication. –Press Release
