Michigan DNR’s Ron Olson honored by Michigan United Conservation Clubs – Outdoor News
Ron Olson, the longtime chief of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Division, recently was recognized by Michigan United Conservation Clubs for his decades of service to conservation in a career that has had impact statewide and nationally. Olson was honored during MUCC’s annual convention earlier this month in northern Michigan.
Olson, who became chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division in January 2005, received the 50 Years of Service to Conservation Award during MUCC’s convention March 7-9 at Treetops Resort in Gaylord.
In its recognition of his “remarkable career spanning five decades,” the Michigan United Conservation Clubs said Olson “has made a lasting impact on Michigan’s parks and outdoor recreation … expanded the state park system, enhanced trail programs, and secured significant funding for infrastructure improvements. His leadership has shaped the future of Michigan’s outdoor spaces for generations to come.”
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In his role with the DNR, Olson is responsible for operations, budgeting, planning and strategic management of the division that includes 82 public harbors, 103 state parks and recreation areas, 13,400-plus miles of state-designated trails and more than a thousand public boating access sites.
Prior to joining the DNR, he served for 20 years as associate city administrator and superintendent of the Ann Arbor parks and recreation department, as well as filling in as Ann Arbor’s interim city administrator on two occasions.
He also held positions directing parks and recreation agencies in Maryland for 11 years and Indiana for two years.
“Ron Olson exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated steward of our precious public lands,” said DNR Director Scott Bowen. “His numerous contributions to conservation in our state, and commitment to promoting and protecting our natural and cultural resources, are unparalleled and deeply appreciated. We’re proud of this most recent recognition of all that Ron has accomplished. His positive imprint on parks and recreation and the visitor experience is immeasurable and will be long-lasting.”
Making his mark
Throughout his tenure at the DNR Olson has played a pivotal role in countless projects and initiatives, including spearheading the introduction of the Recreation Passport, a vehicle entry permit for Michigan state parks, recreation areas and boating access sites.
He’s also been a champion of Michigan’s state parks, leading a team that works tirelessly to ensure the continuity of an award-winning state parks system.
In 2022, a pedestrian bridge connecting visitors to an island at the Lower Falls at Tahquamenon Falls State Park was dedicated to Olson – the 142-foot-long bridge opened at the Upper Peninsula park and was named the Ronald A. Olson Island Bridge.
In the DNR’s announcement of this bridge dedication, it was noted that the structure was an “apt symbol for Olson, who has built a career around bringing people together and encouraging them to aim for destinations that can’t yet see.”
Olson, appreciative of the recognition, was quick to share the accolades with his colleagues throughout the DNR.
“I am honored to receive the 50 Years of Service to Conservation Award from the Michigan United Conservation Clubs at their recent convention, and I share this award with my incredible team members who work so hard and give so much of themselves each and every day in all that they do for our state’s natural and cultural resources,” he said. “We’re always striving to make a positive difference, and this award is an honor for all of us who dedicate our lives to preserving, protecting and promoting our public lands and outdoor recreation.”
Michigan state parks, trails and waterways welcome millions of residents and out-of-state visitors every year, providing adventures, interpretive programs and Michigan-centric experiences for people of all ages and abilities.
About the MUCC awards
Each year, Michigan United Conservation Clubs honors individuals and groups that further its mission of “uniting citizens to conserve, protect and enhance Michigan’s natural resources and outdoor heritage.” The organization’s annual event recognizes those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, advocacy and service to conservation.
Michigan United Conservation Clubs is the largest statewide conservation organization in the nation. Founded in 1937 and with a membership consisting of more than 40,000 hunters, anglers, trappers and conservationists, as well as 200-plus affiliated local clubs around the state, its mission is to unite citizens to conserve, protect and enhance Michigan’s natural resources and outdoor heritage.
