NYS Recreation and Park Society Award Recognizes Outstanding Effort to Sustain and Improve the Environment, Reduce Environmental Impact
Numerous Departmental Programs, Initiatives Lead to Recognition
ERIE COUNTY, NY— The Erie County Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry was recently recognized by the NYS Recreation and Park Society with the 2025 Environmental Leadership Award, presented to a park professional or agency who has made an outstanding effort during the last one to five years to sustain and improve the environment and reduce the environmental impact made by the agency. Numerous Park programs bolstered the department’s nomination for the award, including climate-friendly initiatives, the No/Low Mow and Natural Regeneration Area Program implemented systemwide in 2022, invasive species management, preservation of green space, the installation of electric vehicle charging stations, and many more.
Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Forestry Troy P. Schinzel said, “This award is validation of the hard work our department has been doing to maintain, preserve and protect our over 10,000 acres of park lands and ensure that they are here for future generations to enjoy. We are stewards of these natural assets today and we need to do all we can, so they are here tomorrow.”
Other Parks programs garnering attention for the award were the Department’s education and outreach efforts through the County Forester, Park Rangers and Environmental Compliance Specialist, the updated Forest Management Plan, energy and water conservation initiatives, dune preservation at Bennett Beach, and the first Pollinator Festival, which was held earlier this year.
“Our Parks system is an irreplaceable asset, a living and enduring jewel that educates and inspires us every day,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “I thank Commissioner Schinzel and his team for the work they are doing. It’s getting noticed and the residents of Erie County are better off for it.”
For more information:
On the Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry, visit https://www3.erie.gov/parks/
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