The South Dakota State Parks Division recognized several individuals for their dedication and hard work in the state parks system. The awards were presented at the division’s annual meeting held recently in Chamberlain.
“It is an honor to recognize these individuals,” said Jeff VanMeeteren, director of the Division of Parks and Recreation. “Our staff work hard, and visitors to South Dakota state parks and recreation areas appreciate their efforts.”
The Distinguished Service award was given to regional supervisor Pat Buscher, who has served the state of South Dakota for 29 years. Pat has spent most of his career in the Pierre area and exemplifies leadership, hard work, perseverance, heart, and dedication to the division.
Awards of Appreciation were presented to Ryan Wendinger and Rachel Comes.
Ryan Wendinger, habitat program administrator for the Division of Wildlife, was recognized for assisting the parks division with land trades, sharing his knowledge about purchases, grants, and county regulations, and helping with habitat restoration and improvement projects.
Volunteer coordinator Rachel Comes was recognized for her commitment towards a vital and successful volunteer program, including recruitment, placement, and recognition of our state park volunteers. Rachel’s dedication and initiative make her essential to the success of our organization.
Jim Henning, park manager at Good Earth State Park near Sioux Falls, earned the Innovative Programming Award for his initiative in developing a high school internship program in response to the growing number of internship requests in the Sioux Falls area. Seeing the opportunity to shape future talent, Jim designed a comprehensive 90-hour program that engages students with all branches of the department, providing them with a well-rounded and immersive experience.
Two Teamwork Awards were presented at this year’s division meeting.
The Game, Fish and Parks Fiscal Team, including Chris Petersen, Jeremy Tentinger, Rachel Switzer, Beth Leidholt, Julie Kongslien, and Jeff Gutenkauf, received a Teamwork Award for their collaborative effort assisting park staff during many changes the past year. The team is always sure to get the answers staff need and assist whenever needed.
The Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival Team was honored with the second Teamwork Award for their efforts planning and executing the 60th annual Buffalo Roundup. Hosting this event is no small feat–the Arts Festival had a record 168 vendors this year, while the Roundup continues to draw over 20,000 visitors.
The 2025 Seasonal Employee of the Year is Genee Dorn. Soon after starting her position at Lake Poinsett Recreation Area near Arlington, Genee understood the importance of clean bathrooms, happy customers, and working as a team. Genee brought a strong skill set to each task she needed to complete, enjoyed talking to people of all walks of life, and had fun with her coworkers.
Robert Rutten earned the 2025 Volunteer of the Year award. Bob recorded 450 hours as a maintenance volunteer at Pelican Lake Recreation Area near Watertown this season. He single-handedly took the initiative to clean up hundreds of trees after two severe storms hit the park this summer. His humble, “go get ‘em” attitude is invaluable to the park’s operation.
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