Hyde, Brown Honored by Parks Friends Groups

(From left) Nick Cochart, co-founder, Kinect M1; Teal VanLanen, co-founder, Kinect M1; Adam Peronto, executive project director, Kinect M1; Eric Hyde, superintendent, Peninsula State Park; and Tiffany Leist, who got to test out the chair last year (center). Submitted.

Door County park leaders stood out this year for their cooperation with voluntary state park Friends groups.

Just before Thanksgiving, the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks presented Outstanding DNR Land Manager awards to both Erin Brown Steder, land manager for Potawatomi State Park and Whitefish Dunes State Park; and Eric Hyde, superintendent of Peninsula, Rock Island and Newport state parks.

The Friends of Potawatomi State Park said Brown Stender “is highly dedicated to enhancing the visitor experience. She excels in communication with the Friends group, maintaining professionalism and supporting their efforts.”

Peninsula State Park Friends noted that Hyde oversaw the park property during the opening of the new wheelchair-accessible canopy walk to the top of the restored Eagle Tower, a remodeled nature center, an all-access playground and more at Peninsula State Park. 

Chris Holicek, president of the Friends of Peninsula State Park, said Hyde is responsive and easy to work with. “He’s very nice to his staff and the Friends and he really appreciates all the Friends do,” Holicek said. “He’s a busy guy and he takes time to talk to the campers and the camp hosts.”