The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Chief of Engineers has recognized the team at Lake Shelbyville for the 2015 Natural Resources Management project of the year.
Lt. Gen. Thomas Bostick, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, acknowledged this project for their accomplishments in management efficiency, public involvement, public safety, management effectiveness, and partnerships as related to all elements of the Natural Resources Management program.
“Lake Shelbyville works hand and hand with partners to meet common goals. Without the partnerships that have been created, we would not be successful in our mission,” said Ricky Raymond, project manager at the lake. “Knowing that public involvement creates new ideas and leads to a better understanding and appreciation, the staff has always put the visitor first.”
Col. Anthony Mitchell, commander of the St. Louis District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is understandably proud of the recognition for the staff.
“The staff at Shelbyville has developed innovative strategies to attract and retain a variety of partners,” Mitchell said. “The result is the ability to effectively utilize this multi-purpose project, and create a safe and enjoyable environment for the public.”
Among the partners involved at Lake Shelbyville are The General Dacey Trail partnership, The Central Illinois Mountain Bike Association (CIMBA), Trails for Illinois, Vandalia Prison, Lake Volunteer Association (LVA), Boy Scouts, and two nationally known not-for-profit organizations. Some of these diverse partnerships have been in place for years, others for concentrated seasonal efforts.
Lake Shelbyville has also partnered with Federal, State, and private partners, including the National Park Service, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Central Illinois Sportsman for Outdoor Accessibility (CISOA), Fox Redi Mix, Chips Marine Service, and Shelby Electric Coop.
For more information on the St. Louis District and Lake Shelbyville visit www.mvs.usace.army.mil, www.facebook.com/teamsaintlouis and www.facebook.com/LakeShelbyvilleUSACE.
Release no. 15-043