Newsroom_News Release_2025-07-02 Governor Announces Outdoor Industry Award Winners; Wisconsin State Park System Honored

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 2025-07-02

Contact: DNR Office of Communications
DNRPress@wisconsin.gov

Governor Announces Outdoor Industry Award Winners; Wisconsin State Park System Honored

Aerial view of a river with a motorboat pulling a person on an inflatable raft, other boats nearby, surrounded by lush greenery and a sandy shore. The Wisconsin State Park System was recognized for its exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities. Photo credit: Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, Wis. – Gov. Tony Evers and the Department of Tourism’s Office of Outdoor Recreation recently announced seven individuals and organizations as the first recipients of the newly created Wisconsin Governor’s Outdoor Industry Awards, and the Wisconsin State Park System was honored with Destination of the Year.

The newly created awards honor the outstanding accomplishments that drive economic impact and elevate the profile of Wisconsin’s thriving outdoor industry and of the state as a top outdoor recreation destination. Across seven categories, 75 nominations were received for individuals, destinations and organizations. Winners were announced and nominees were recognized at a special celebration on June 26, 2025.

Celebrating 125 years in 2025, the Wisconsin State Park System provides access to some of Wisconsin’s most unique and scenic landscapes, exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities and amazing experiences for visitors. For this anniversary year, the Wisconsin State Park System is bolstering activities and opportunities for those new to outdoor recreation.

"Our state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas are really something to be proud of here in Wisconsin," said DNR Secretary Karen Hyun. "Receiving this award is an honor and highlights how vital these natural spaces are in making Wisconsin a great place to live, work and play. Our staff are dedicated to conservation and creating wonderful recreation opportunities, and this is a testament to that."

Visit the DNR's state parks webpage to learn more about the Wisconsin State Park System and its 125th anniversary.

Other winners include:

  • Outdoor Business of the Year: Adventure Outfitters, LLC
  • Trailblazer of the Year: Bill Menke, volunteer
  • Tandem Award for Collaboration: Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin's Field Trip Program  
  • Big Tent Award: Bill Bertram, outdoor recreation organizer
  • First Ascent Award for Innovation: The Glide by Boulder Junction Parks and Recreation Board   
  • Rising Star Award: Kennedy Domerchie, Outdoors Development Manager, Visit Eau Claire 

Need an expert?