CPW recognizes 29 employees with awards for their leadership, bravery and dedication to protecting Colorado’s natural resources and citizens

Joey Livingston
Statewide Public Information Officer
303-345-4658 / [email protected]

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), in collaboration with the Colorado State Parks Employee Protective Association (CSPEPA) and the Colorado Wildlife Employees Protective Association (CWEPA), recently honored 29 employees for their outstanding service and commitment to protecting the state’s citizens and natural resources.

These annual awards recognize CPW officers, rangers and staff who demonstrate exceptional dedication to preserving and enhancing Colorado’s outdoors and show a willingness to put their lives on the line protecting the people that enjoy them. Recipients are acknowledged for their expertise in biology, science, law enforcement, leadership, and wildlife or park management, as well as their strong public service ethic, bravery and the respect of their peers.

“Our employees are the heart of Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and their unwavering dedication to protecting our state’s natural resources and citizens is truly inspiring,” said CPW Director Jeff Davis. “These awards recognize not just their skill and professionalism, but their bravery, leadership and selfless service. Whether it’s saving lives, preserving wildlife, or fostering the next generation of conservationists, our team embodies the very best of public service.”

John D. Hart Wildlife Officer of the Year
Named after legendary wildlife officer John D. Hart, who retired as CPW’s assistant director in 1959, this year’s award was presented to Area 6 District Wildlife Manager Ross McGee. Officer McGee distinguished himself through community engagement, innovative conservation efforts, and his commitment to addressing complex wildlife challenges. He has fostered private-public partnerships that opened more than 4,500 acres for public hunting and wildlife surveys, while also managing significant big game migration corridor challenges. Officer McGee’s leadership, expertise, and firm yet humble approach to law enforcement make him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Outstanding Ranger of the Year Award
Established in 1986 and selected by fellow state park rangers, this award went to Park Ranger Corrine Servis, operations manager at the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA). Ranger Servis made significant contributions in 2024 by strengthening team collaboration, advocating for temporary employee wage increases, and mentoring new recruits. She also launched the “Rec Rangers” program, engaged in extensive public outreach, and promoted accessibility in outdoor recreation. Her leadership, field expertise, and unwavering dedication to CPW’s mission set her apart as a true role model.

Colorado State Parks Employee Protective Association Awards
The CSPEPA is a nonprofit organization established in 2003 to support CPW employees. CSPEPA offers its members retirement benefits, legal protection, serves as a liaison with management staff, and provides representation in matters concerning association membership. Additionally, CSPEPA recognizes outstanding employee and volunteer achievements through various awards. 2024 awardees include:

• Columbine Emerging Leader Award: Cheyenne Mountain Park Ranger Jasmine Wolcott was recognized for her exceptional performance and promise as a future leader, demonstrating skill and dedication beyond her years.
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Boyd Lake Park Manager Eric Grey was honored for his long-standing commitment, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to visitor safety and park preservation.
• Valor Award: Lake Pueblo Park Ranger Josh Klosheim was recognized for his courageous response to a shooting incident, securing the scene and providing critical medical care under dangerous conditions.
• Valor Award: Area 8 Assistant Area Wildlife Manager Darren Chacon, despite recovering from a knee injury, waded into the cold waters of Canyon Creek and saved a driver trapped in a submerged vehicle after a rollover crash.
• Lifesaving Awards: Fifteen employees were recognized for their heroic actions in rescuing individuals from life-threatening situations across Colorado’s parks and waterways.
  • Chatfield Park Ranger Tyler Hall and Chatfield Limited Commission Rangers Kyra Zerucha and William Wayman were honored for their life-saving efforts during a severe storm at Chatfield Reservoir, rescuing multiple individuals and pets under treacherous conditions.
  • Chatfield State Park Limited Commission Boat Ranger Danny Brown rescued a young girl from drowning at Chatfield Reservoir by pulling her from a paddleboard in a violent storm.
  • Lake Pueblo Park Ranger Erin Steinman pulled a disoriented, intoxicated kayaker from Lake Pueblo’s dangerous waters, preventing a near-drowning.
  • Lake Pueblo Senior Ranger Daryl Seder and Park Ranger Josh Klosheim located a missing boater in the dark, saving him from hypothermia and exhaustion.
  • Chatfield Park Ranger Karsen Krier and Limited Commission Ranger William Ellis revived an overdosed man using CPR, an AED, and Narcan.
  • Cherry Creek State Park Limited Commission Ranger Kendra Kimball and Boat Attendant Benson Adams rescued a driver from a sinking car at Cherry Creek State Park, preventing a suicide.
  • Chatfield State Park Ranger Kennedy Miller and Boyd Lake State Park Limited Commission Ranger Emmi Crider led a nighttime rescue at Boyd Lake, saving seven people from rough waters.
  • Chatfield State Park Ranger Timothy Abt and Cherry Creek Park Ranger Levi Reisinger rescued an injured skier by keeping him warm and carrying him to a helicopter landing zone.

“The CSPEPA board is honored to be able to recognize the dedication and amazing work of our CPW officers,” said CSPEPA Board President and Cherry Creek State Park Manager Michelle Seubert. “Congratulations to all!”

Colorado Wildlife Employees Protective Association Awards
The CWEPA is one of the oldest employee associations in the state and is dedicated to supporting CPW employees. CWEPA offers its members death and retirement benefits, legal protection, and serves as a liaison with CPW staff. Additionally, the association provides scholarships to members' children pursuing natural resource-related fields and recognizes officers who perform acts above and beyond their duties. 2024 awardees include: 

• Lifesaving Medal: Statewide K-9 Program Coordinator Ian Petkash, formerly an Area 1 District Wildlife Manager, found an elderly hunter stranded in the snow, ensured his safety, and helped him recover from exposure.
• Medal of Valor: Area 18 District Wildlife Manager Stuart Sinclair was honored for his bravery in rescuing a dog and assisting a lone firefighter in controlling a structure fire.
• Jon Wangnild Memorial Wildlife Case of the Year: Area 2 District Wildlife Manager Sam Peterson and Area 14 District Wildlife Managers Aaron Berscheid, Tyson Floersheim received recognition for their exceptional investigative work on a complex poaching case, which led to significant legal actions.
• Horizon Award: Area 1 District Wildlife Manager Jacob Sonberg was recognized for his leadership, professionalism, and investigative excellence in wildlife protection.
• Cliff Coghill Career Achievement Award: Area 13 District Wildlife Manager Bob Carochi was honored for more than two decades of service, mentoring new officers, and advancing conservation efforts.
• Administrative/Support Staff Person of the Year: Area 1 and 5 Administrative Assistant Jenny Campbell was acknowledged for her exceptional contributions in managing CPW’s administrative operations and supporting staff across multiple regions.

“These awards represent the excellence in service our employee members provide to the public and to the natural resources of Colorado," said CWEPA Board President and Area 5 District Wildlife Manager Casey Westbrook. “It is a distinct honor to know and work alongside these outstanding individuals.”

More details about the awards and actions of CPW’s brave and dedicated award recipients below.

John D. Hart Wildlife Officer of the Year Award - Area 6 District Wildlife Manager Ross McGee
The John D. Hart Wildlife Officer of the Year Award was named after a legendary wildlife officer who retired as the agency's assistant director in 1959. This year, District Wildlife Officer Ross McGee stood out for his dedication to community engagement, tackling some of Colorado’s most complex wildlife issues, and exemplifying the timeless values of a Colorado wildlife officer. He makes conservation relevant by involving young people in projects like habitat restoration, achieving 100% hunter education enrollment for Meeker’s 6th graders, and recruiting seasonal staff. Officer McGee handles the state’s largest big game migration corridor challenges—such as solar development and reclamation at the 50,000-acre ColoWyo Coal Mine—while fostering private-public partnerships that opened up over 4,500 acres for public hunting and wildlife surveys. Known for his firm yet humble law enforcement approach, Officer McGee has resolved multi-state poaching cases and managed serious depredation incidents, all while building strong landowner relationships. As a firearms instructor, trainer, and previously decorated wildlife officer, he leads by example and never hesitates to help fellow officers, truly embodying the spirit of the John D. Hart Wildlife Officer of the Year.

Outstanding Ranger of the Year Award - AHRA Park Ranger Corrine Servis
The Outstanding Ranger of the Year Award originated in 1986 and the recipient is selected by fellow state park rangers. This year, the honor went to Park Ranger Corrine Servis, the operations manager at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. Ranger Servis has excelled in 2024 by strengthening collaboration among staff, raising wages for temporary employees, and mentoring new recruits. She pioneered the “Rec Rangers” program—comprised of aspiring young professionals—who removed 4,072 gallons of trash and made over 2,200 public contacts. Ranger Servis also launched an internship program with local schools, helped unify park manager budget requests statewide by writing shared decision item narratives, and organized monthly park manager meetings, including an in-person summit in Salida. A three-time GOCO Directors’ Innovation Fund recipient, she continually promotes accessibility for all visitors, maintains her own field skills (rafting in summer, snowmobiling in winter), and does it all while raising three children and actively participating in big game hunting and fly fishing.

Colorado State Parks Employee Protective Association (CSPEPA) Awards
CSPEPA Columbine Emerging Leader
This award is presented to someone who is a promising early career employee, who performs at a level beyond their years of experience and whose drive and dedication reassures their colleagues with more experience that the agency will be in good hands going into the future, whatever challenges may arise. An employee must have been full time for 3 years or less to receive this award.

• Cheyenne Mountain Park Ranger Jasmine Wolcott - Ranger Wolcott’s infectious positivity and remarkable competence have quickly earned her respect and recognition within CPW. She consistently performs at a level beyond her years, exceeding expectations across the agency. Her early achievements and boundless potential made her a standout candidate for the Columbine Emerging Leader Award.

CSPEPA Lifetime Achievement Award - Boyd Lake Park Manager Eric Grey
This award is presented to someone who is a subject matter expert in the area of professional job knowledge, sets standards of performance for following generations, acts as a cornerstone of the local community, mentors others within CPW to serve the mission above expectation and has a minimum of 15 years of experience

• Boyd Lake Park Manager Eric Grey - Throughout his career, Ranger Grey has embodied the highest standards of professionalism as a ranger, mentor, trainer, and first responder. Known for speaking up when necessary and never choosing the easy path, he has always prioritized visitor safety and upheld a clean, welcoming park environment. His legacy of dedication and leadership will continue to guide those he has worked with, supervised, and inspired.

CSPEPA Valor Award
This award is presented to CPW employees or volunteers who acted in a courageous or selfless manner in a situation which presented inherent danger or risk to themselves in an effort to protect or save another.

• Lake Pueblo Park Ranger Josh Klosheim - On June 21, 2024, Ranger Klosheim responded to a shooting at Sailboard Beach, where he found two victims with gunshot wounds. With no clear knowledge of the shooter’s location, he secured the scene and performed critical medical care until EMS arrived. His composure and decisive action under such perilous circumstances exemplify true valor.
• Area 8 Assistant Area Wildlife Manager Darren Chacon - In March 2024, Officer Chacon arrived first on the scene of a rollover crash in Canyon Creek near Glenwood Springs, despite being on light duty from recent knee surgery. He waded into the creek, calmed a disoriented driver, and guided him out of the submerged vehicle. His quick thinking and selfless actions prevented the driver from potentially drowning.

CSPEPA Lifesaving Award
This award is presented to CPW employees or volunteers who acted in a manner that saved the life of another.

• Chatfield Park Ranger Tyler Hall, Limited Commission Rangers Kyra Zerucha and William Wayman - On June 27, 2024, at Chatfield Reservoir, Rangers Hall, Zerucha and Wayman faced one of the worst storms on record with 3- to 5-foot waves and howling winds. Their first boat rescue disabled Ranger Hall’s patrol boat, forcing quick resourcefulness to transport those victims to safety; they then rescued four additional people and two dogs from a capsized vessel before the storm became too dangerous. Their swift teamwork and courage undoubtedly prevented multiple fatalities.
• Chatfield State Park Limited Commission Boat Ranger Danny Brown - In June 2024, Ranger Brown raced by patrol boat to rescue a young girl clinging to a paddleboard in a violent storm at Chatfield Reservoir. Arriving just as she was losing her grip, he pulled her to safety, a lifesaving move among the many rescues he has performed there. His vigilance and bravery have directly prevented numerous tragedies on the water.
• Lake Pueblo Park Ranger Erin Steinman - On August 18, 2024, at Lake Pueblo, Ranger Steinman noticed a kayaker struggling in high winds with no life jacket on. She maneuvered her patrol boat, physically pulled the disoriented, intoxicated swimmer aboard, and averted a near-drowning despite his attempts to break free. Her decisive intervention and expertise in a dangerous situation saved his life.
• Lake Pueblo Senior Ranger Daryl Seder and Park Ranger Josh Klosheim - After a severe storm, Rangers Klosheim and Seder searched a lake in the dark for a missing boater who had been gone for hours. They discovered him late at night, clinging to his overturned boat, weak, hypothermic, and terrified. Their relentless efforts in challenging conditions saved him from certain peril.
• Chatfield Park Ranger Karsen Krier and Limited Commission Ranger William Ellis - On July 29, 2024, Rangers Krier and Ellis found a man who had overdosed and was neither conscious nor breathing. They quickly administered CPR, attached an AED, and gave Narcan—all while coordinating their efforts. Their fast action revived the victim and undeniably saved his life.
• Cherry Creek State Park Limited Commission Ranger Kendra Kimball and Boat Attendant Benson Adams - On July 23, 2024, at Cherry Creek State Park, Ranger Kimball and Boat Attendant Adams rushed to a call about a car sinking at the West Boat Ramp. They managed to extract the driver seconds before the vehicle fully submerged, thwarting what turned out to be a suicide attempt. Their swift response and determination gave the individual another chance at life.
• Chatfield State Park Ranger Kennedy Miller and Boyd Lake State Park Limited Commission Ranger Emmi Crider - On June 21, 2024, at around 9:45 p.m. at Boyd Lake State Park, Rangers Miller and Crider received a call about a paddleboarder in distress on rough, wind-whipped waters. They launched the patrol boat, rescued the initial paddle boarder, and soon discovered there were six more missing. With support from local agencies, the rangers orchestrated multiple rescue trips—ultimately saving all seven individuals from the lake’s dangerous conditions.
• Chatfield State Park Ranger Timothy Abt and Cherry Creek Park Ranger Levi Reisinger - While on snowmobile patrol, Rangers Abt and Reisinger received a call about an injured skier with a suspected broken hip. They found the man, kept him calm and warm by building a fire, and coordinated with backcountry rescue to organize a helicopter landing. To avoid worsening his injuries, they carried him by hand to the landing zone, demonstrating the courage and resourcefulness that ultimately saved his life.

Colorado Wildlife Employees Protective Association (CWEPA) Awards
CWEPA Lifesaving Medal 
To be awarded to any CPW employee who is directly responsible for saving human life.

• Statewide K-9 Program Coordinator Ian Petkash - On November 21, 2024, Officer Petkash was checking hunters near the Lost Park Wilderness when he discovered an 87-year-old man who had fallen and was lying in the snow away from his truck. Unable to call for help and left alone while his family went hunting, the man was in danger from the cold. Officer Petkash quickly checked for injuries, helped him warm up in his truck, and stayed until he was safe—an excellent display of quick thinking and compassion.

CWEPA Medal of Valor Award 
Those commissioned officers who perform service above and beyond the call of duty and display courage under conditions which manifest an imminent risk of death or bodily injury.

• Area 18 District Wildlife Manager Stuart Sinclair - On April 13, 2024, Officer Sinclair discovered a shed fully engulfed in flames and a dog tied to it while patrolling near Delta. He immediately called the fire department, freed the dog, alerted the homeowner, and even operated a fire hose alongside the lone firefighter—preventing the blaze from spreading to the house. His quick, heroic actions saved both lives and property, leaving him with only singed boots and earning him well-deserved praise for his bravery.

CWEPA Jon Wangnild Memorial Wildlife Case of the Year
Presented annually in memory of Jon Wangnild and the work he accomplished in Colorado, CWEPA has created this award to recognize hard worked or unique wildlife cases that have had a final disposition in the previous year.

• Area 2 District Wildlife Manager Sam Peterson and Area 14 District Wildlife Managers Aaron Berscheid, Tyson Floersheim - Officers Peterson, Berscheid, and Floersheim earned the Jon Wangnild Memorial Wildlife Case of the Year for their impressive teamwork on a complex poaching investigation that began with a Thanksgiving 2023 deer call in Teller County. What started as a single case led to a major search warrant on a well-known podcaster, resulting in the seizure of over 180 hard drives, SD cards, and multiple phones. Officer Peterson tirelessly reviewed weeks of footage, spotting illegal activity involving a 6x5 bull elk just days before the statute of limitations expired. Officer Floersheim drew on his local knowledge to pinpoint key locations for the elk and a large buck, crucial for corroborating the crimes. Meanwhile, Officer Berscheid managed a mountain of investigative leads, ultimately seeing the case through the judicial system. Their relentless dedication, precision, and swift action exemplify the spirit of the Jon Wangnild Memorial Wildlife Case of the Year.

CWEPA Horizon Award
Presented annually to a Colorado Parks and Wildlife Officer to encourage the professional development of recently appointed officers. A nominated officer must have demonstrated a genuine desire to protect the resource and develop professionally and demonstrate exceptional ability and initiative in the performance of their duties, including public education.

• Area 1 District Wildlife Manager Jacob Sonberg - New to Area 1 but already making a lasting impact, Officer Sonberg has shown exceptional leadership, collaboration, and professionalism—qualities that make him a standout for the Horizon Award. He demonstrates unwavering teamwork, stepping into any needed role and working with difficult stakeholders to strengthen agency partnerships. Officer Sonberg resolved a critical case involving a trophy 7x7 bull elk with such skill and discretion that it drew praise from veteran officers. His keen attention to detail also led to identifying a repeat trespass and illegal elk offender near Genesee, using diligent questioning and body-worn-camera footage to obtain key admissions. Beyond law enforcement, Officer Sonberg plays a pivotal role in restoring native greenback cutthroat trout in Pine and Evergreen, forging valuable alliances between CPW and local landowners. His dedication, decision-making, and commitment to conservation made him deserving of the Horizon Award.

CWEPA Cliff Coghill Career Achievement Award
CWEPA created the Cliff Coghill Career Achievement Award to recognize CPW officers who have provided many years of dedicated service to the wildlife resource of Colorado. 

• Area 13 District Wildlife Manager Bob Carochi - Starting his career in 2000 as a Wildlife Property Technician, then moving into a District Wildlife Manager role, Officer Carochi has consistently proven himself a steadfast protector of Colorado’s wildlife and a true multi-purpose wildlife officer. Over two decades in Cañon City, he’s tackled major poaching cases, championed habitat improvements, and fostered critical landowner relationships. His commitment extends to mentoring new officers through brutally honest yet caring guidance—a hallmark of his Field Training Officer style—and serving on the Firearms Board, where he prioritizes practical training and officer safety. As a past CWEPA president, Officer Carochi secured better legal coverage benefits for fellow officers and remains active in firearms instruction statewide. Dedicated to his family, Officer Carochi supports his daughters’ athletic and academic careers while still finding time to hunt with them. Honored as the 2012 John D. Hart Officer of the Year, he continues to reach new heights, epitomizing the spirit of the Cliff Coghill Career Achievement Award.

CWEPA Administrative/Support Staff Person of the Year 
This award is presented annually to a CPW administrative support staff member for excellent performance. Awardees exemplify commitment, dedication, and perseverance for the agency, the resource, the sportsmen/women of Colorado and CPW staff and are knowledgeable and willing to share their knowledge to help others succeed.

• Area 1 and 5 Administrative Assistant Jenny Campbell - Supporting Areas 1 and 5 in the Northeast Region, Jenny exemplifies the best qualities of an administrative professional. Not only does she manage purchasing and budgets for over 20 employees—ensuring financial rules are followed and preventing procurement errors—she also plays a key role in processing special hunts, outfitters’ permits, and front-desk inquiries. Jenny constantly improves procedures, from night hunting and dog tracking permits to fishing guide applications, creating smoother workflows for both staff and customers. Beyond her day-to-day tasks, she goes the extra mile after hours to stay connected with and check on coworkers after difficult days. Her combination of experience, dedication to CPW’s mission, and genuine concern for colleagues makes Jenny Campbell the standout choice for the CWEPA Administrative/Support Staff Person of the Year.