FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 18, 2021
CONTACT: Elizabeth Ward, Chapter Director, Sierra Club Wisconsin, elizabeth.ward@sierraclub.org
Dane County Parks Awarded Sierra Club Award
Parks access and expanded programming make system more inclusive
MADISON - Last night, the Sierra Club Wisconsin Chapter presented the Dane County Parks system with the Torchbearer Award. This award is given to organizations and individuals external to Sierra Club who are championing innovative programs or processes that protect the environment. The Dane County Parks Division won this award for their work to expand programming to focus on youth, provide greater access to public lands via transit, and continue to identify ways to make the park system more inclusive.
Wisconsin Sierra Club Chapter Director Elizabeth Ward issued the following statement:
“Over the last 18 months of the pandemic, the importance of our parks and public lands to our individual and community health is more clear than ever. At the same time, we know that not everyone has access to these critical resources. Dane County Parks has been a leader in protecting over 17,000 acres of public lands and in identifying ways to make this land accessible to all. The work to make the Dane County park system inclusive, accessible and welcoming is ongoing, and the Torchbearer Award recognizes the efforts and commitment of parks staff and leadership in pursuing these goals.”
Dane County Executive Joe Parisi issued the following statement:
“We saw a record 4 million visitors last year, a new all-time level of popularity as more families got outside during the pandemic. We’re working hard to sustain this momentum through continued investments in our parks system and through expanded youth programming. The goals of our youth programs are to ensure that all youth feel welcome in our parks and to introduce them to recreational interests and career opportunities," said Dane County Executive Joe Parisi. "Thank you to the Wisconsin Chapter of the Sierra Club for recognizing our work and congratulations to all Dane County Parks staff for this honor. Our staff work hard to protect our natural resources and to provide sustainable access to our parkland.”
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Founded in 1892, the Sierra Club is America’s oldest, largest, and most influential grassroots environmental organization. The Sierra Club’s mission is to explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the earth. The Sierra Club – Wisconsin is made up of 18,000 members and supporters from throughout Wisconsin working to promote clean energy and protect land and water resources.