2026 PARK RANGER OF THE YEAR AWARD

The Florida Park Service Ranger Association is proud to present the 2026 Park Ranger of the Year Awards, generously sponsored by Tyler Technologies. Now in its fifth year, this distinguished award celebrates outstanding Florida Park Service employees who exemplify the spirit of “Ranger First”—a commitment to protecting natural resources and serving the public with unwavering dedication.

Visitors to state parks view all uniformed staff as park rangers, even though their job titles may differ. That is why this award is open to all Florida Park Service employees, regardless of their official role.

“Park rangers truly represent the heart and soul of Florida’s nationally recognized state park system,” said Warren Poplin, president of the Ranger Association. “This award allows us to shine a light on the exceptional individuals who go above and beyond every day to keep our parks safe, beautiful, and welcoming to all.”

Nominations can be submitted online through December 2, 2025. Anyone may nominate a Florida Park Service employee who was employed between November 1, 2024, and October 31, 2025. Self-nominations are not allowed.

Each nomination must include:

• The nominator’s name and email address
• The employee’s name, position, years of service, and park/office
• A 100-word description of the employee and their role at their park/office
• A 250-word explanation of how the nominee exemplifies the "Ranger First" attitude, including specific examples
• A 100-word statement from someone in the nominee’s supervisory chain, endorsing their worthiness.

Make a Nomination

The nomination period ends on Tuesday, December 2, 2025.