Kyle Johnson, a wilderness specialist at Glacier National Park, recently became the first Glacier Park employee in over 20 years to be awarded the National Park Service Director’s Wes Henry National Excellence in Wilderness Stewardship Individual Award.
The award is named after celebrated National Park Service wilderness manager Wes Henry.
Johnson, a Columbia Falls native, has worked at Glacier for 31 years. He has become known for his wilderness expertise and leadership in developing wilderness management plans, evaluation and reporting tools, interagency training, innovative backcountry volunteer and internship programs, according to the park.
“Kyle’s dedication to preserving wilderness values and expertise in wilderness management practices make him an invaluable asset to Glacier, the region, and the agency,” Glacier Superintendent Chas Cartwright said in a statement. “We are honored to have Kyle and his skills at Glacier.”
Johnson works cooperatively with interagency partners on projects such as the joint river management plan for Glacier National Park and the Flathead National Forest. He is an active collaborator for the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, establishing cross-border relationships which benefit international wilderness protection efforts. Through training and personal interaction, Johnson has instilled the importance of protecting wilderness resources and values with U.S. Border Patrol agents while appreciating the need to protect borders for the homeland security mission.
“It’s my honor to be a steward of Glacier National Park’s unique and special resources,” Johnson said in a statement. “I work with a dedicated team and together we’re able to preserve this beloved place.”
Johnson was awarded the National Park Service Intermountain Region Wilderness Champion Award in February. He received a commemorative sculpture and cash award in recognition of the national award.