Westland promoted to Supervisory Ranger at 'Ding' Darling NWR

Westland promoted to Supervisory Ranger at 'Ding' Darling NWR
Ranger Toni Westland, the environmental education specialist at J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, was recently reassigned to the position of refuge Supervisory Ranger, which was vacated in August 2008 by Ranger Kevin Godsea.

Westland has worked in environmental education since she graduated from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point with a major in natural resource management, emphasis on environmental education. She will continue to oversee the refuge's education program, which is heavily supported by "Ding" Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS).

"It was a difficult choice among highly qualified applicants from near and far, but Toni has demonstrated a great capacity to bring energy, innovation, leadership, and inspiration to the Visitor Services program," said Refuge Manager Paul Tritaik.

"I had mixed emotions about giving up my work with the kids, but we have agreed that I will keep my hands on that aspect as I take on new roles such as media contact, liaison for both DDWS and Tarpon Bay Explorers concession, and head of Visitor Services at the refuge," said Westland.

DDWS is a non-profit, friends-of-the-refuge organization that supports the Education Center, "Ding" Darling Days, and other educational programs at the refuge.

To join DDWS and become a friend to the refuge, stop in at the Refuge Education Center or visit www.dingdarlingsociety.org.