November 21st 2008 • HOME •

Superintendent Dillon Wins NPCA Award

Constantine J. Dillon, Superintendent of the Fire Island National Seashore, has been awarded the prestigious Stephen Tyng Mather Award by the National Parks Conservation Association.

The association considers Dillon an ally in its opposition to shoreline stabilization. Likewise, proponents of beach replenishment also consider Dillon to be an opponent of the proposed massive project being promoted by the Army Corps of Engineers. Commercial and real estate interests have been fighting guerrilla warfare against Dillon hoping to effect his removal from office. But according to NPCA President Thomas C. Kiernan, "he placed the welfare of the park above his own and fought for what was best for the resource against strong opposition." (Actually, Dillon has taken no individual public position on beach replenishment, awaiting a Department of Interior decision)

The annual $2000 prize, named for the first director of the National Park Service, recognizes "individuals who have demonstrated initiative and resourcefulness in promoting environmental principles and protecting the natural resources of a park in the face of adversity."

Source: National Parks, May/June 2000, p. 52-53.

Updated 1 June 2000