For immediate release February 21, 2006

MIKE SCOTT RECEIVES RANGER OF THE YEAR AWARD
FOR TENNESSEE STATE PARKS

Lake City, Tenn. – The Tennessee Park Rangers Association has honored Mike Scott, ranger at Norris Dam State Park, with the Ranger of the Year Award for Tennessee State Parks. In presenting the award, the association recognized Scott for his leadership and dedication to Tennessee State Parks, particularly in the area of environmental education.

“We are proud to have true parks professionals like Mike Scott working in the Tennessee State Park system,” said Environment and Conservation Commissioner Jim Fyke. “Mike’s dedication to our state parks and to teaching visitors about Tennessee’s special places not only benefits Norris Dam State Park and its visitors, but the entire state parks system.”

Scott is a 20-year veteran in the Tennessee State Parks system and has been a ranger at Norris Dam State Park since 1992. Since that time, he has implemented and led a number of educational programs including a raptor program and other programs featuring native animals, astronomy programs and wildflower hikes.

Norris Dam State Park offers a variety of additional educational programs, including pontoon cruises and cave trips. Ranger Scott was instrumental in working with the park’s friends group to secure a new pontoon boat to help those programs continue. In addition to leading programs at the park, Scott travels to local schools and libraries to teach children about the area’s animals and other natural wonders.

Scott graduated from the University of Tennessee – Knoxville. He began his career with Tennessee State Parks as a seasonal employee at Norris Dam State Park before moving on to Big Ridge State Park. He accepted his first full time position at David Crockett State Park in 1986 and worked there until returning to Norris Dam in 1992.

The Tennessee Park Rangers Association gives its Ranger of the Year award annually to a park ranger or manager who exhibits service above and beyond the call of duty. Scott was one of nine nominees among 210 uniformed officers.

For more information about Tennessee State Parks, visit the Web site at tnstateparks.com or call toll free 1-888-867-2757.

###

For more information contact:

Tisha Calabrese-Benton
(865) 594-5442 (Office)