The Wyoming Weed and Pest Council awarded some of its top staff, including from Park County, during its 81st annual conference in Jackson last month, bringing together members of all 23 weed and pest districts across Wyoming. This year’s conference featured outdoor tours and classes for members to discuss noxious weeds and pests in the state, while also celebrating the accomplishments of some of their longest serving employees and board members.

WWPC hosts the conference each year to promote unified support and leadership for the management of weed and pests to protect the economic and ecological resources in Wyoming. The various districts began meeting on Monday, Oct. 27 and continued through Thursday, Oct. 30. Employees were welcomed by Teton County Commissioner Natalia Macker, with a keynote address highlighting Jackson’s rich history of wildlife conservation, delivered by Catherine Maguire of History Jackson Hole.

The topics of the conference included yearly strategic planning, agriculture and wildlife challenges, team building, education, outreach, prevention and safety. The meeting was also a chance to share effective programs and policies among the different weed and pest districts.

During an award banquet, WWPC awarded Fremont County Weed and Pest Supervisor Aaron Foster with the prestigious Everett Johnson Award. The award initiated by the council in 1995 in honor of Everett Johnson, an Albany County rancher and longtime Weed and Pest District board member, who has made significant contributions to Wyoming’s Weed and Pest program. It is given to recognize the service of a district employee who has demonstrated outstanding weed and pest management practices.

Dr. Tim Collier received the Harold P. Alley award for his contributions to biological control efforts with the University of Wyoming. The Guy Haggard award was received by Bob Budd, thanking him for his support and friendship to the Council. Garrett Valkenburg was awarded the Archie Lauer Award as an outstanding board member and now the newly elected president of the council.

Service awards were handed out to members who have given 25 years of service to the WWPC. Those recipients included Chuck Pellatz of Converse County, Dennis Hanson of Laramie County, Neil Holmes of Niobrara County, Josh Shorb of Park County, and Erika Edmiston and Sharon Parrott, both of Teton County. Mike Forman of the Park County Weed and Pest District board was celebrated for 40 years of service. 

To learn more about the Wyoming Weed and Pest Council and how to support its mission, visit wyoweed.org.