Bozeman, MT, March 11, 2024— The Custer Gallatin Bear Aware Program has received recognition at the second annual Golden Pinecone Award for its outstanding work in educating the public on bear safety and awareness. This award is presented by national leadership in recognition of exceptional efforts in conservation education.
“This award is very important for the forest,” expressed Randy Scarlett, Custer Gallatin Wildlife Biologist. He further added, “It emphasizes the commitment of our team to educate the public about bear safety. As we move forward, we intend to improve our efforts in accordance with the growing community and reduce conflicts between humans and bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and other regions.”
In 2023, the Custer Gallatin National Forest, in partnership with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, had nearly 8,000 public interactions by way of presentations, training sessions, TV segments, radio shows, and social media. This success was made possible through the dedicated efforts of several individuals, including biologists, bear technicians, and recreation staff.
The Golden Pinecone Awards celebrate the contributions of Forest Service personnel and collaborators involving the public in the agency mission through communication and outreach events. The annual ceremony acknowledges achievements documented in the Naturewatch, Interpretation, and Conservation Education database application for the fiscal year 2023. Award categories vary from acknowledging outstanding journalists and effective utilization of Forest Service symbols to appreciating creative public engagement related to other Forest Service initiatives.
The Custer Gallatin is committed to promoting ecological balance and preserving the natural habitat of wildlife. This Golden Pinecone recognition further emphasizes the Forest Service‘s ongoing efforts to create awareness among the public and the agency’s commitment to the cause. The Custer Gallatin looks forward to continuing its efforts to promote wildlife safety and conservation in the future.
