Gary Reimer, BLM-Anchorage District Manager, was one of 15 National Take Pride in America Award winners recognized at a ceremony held on July 17, 2009 at the U.S. Department of the Interior in Washington, D.C.

 

“Gary exemplifies the BLM’s commitment to the sustainability of public lands for current and future generations," BLM Acting Director Mike Pool said. "Through his engagement of private and community-based groups, he has greatly increased public awareness of and participation in the issues related to the management of BLM-administered lands.”

 

Take Pride in America is a national partnership program aimed at increasing volunteer service on America’s public lands.  Its annual awards recognize volunteer projects and efforts in a variety of categories, highlighting events, projects, and programs that are targeted at maintaining or enhancing public lands.  A recipient in the category of “Federal Land Manager,” Gary was honored for his exceptional management and active commitment to community stewardship through the promotion of volunteerism, youth participation, and partnership development.

 

Serving as the BLM-Alaska Anchorage District Manager, Gary oversees the management of 25 million acres of BLM-administered public lands in Alaska.  He is dedicated to engaging the citizens of Alaska in the management of these lands and resources by fostering an environment of stewardship and responsibility among public land users.  In both rural and urban areas of the District, he makes time to attend public events, build relationships, and engage stakeholders. Under Gary’s direction, the Anchorage District hosted four successful Take Pride in America events in 2008, achieving record numbers for participation.