News Release

9-26-2024 Great Sand Dunes newest Chief Ranger Zachary Parkes

Chief Ranger Zachary Parkes with a view of the Sand Dunes

NPS Photo

News Release Date: September 26, 2024

Contact: Sierra Willoughby, 719-378-6341

Mosca, Colo. The National Park Service welcomes the newest Chief of Visitor and Resource Protection Zachary Parkes at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. The selection was made earlier this year by Superintendent Andrea Compton.

Chief Parkes is a 15-year National Park Service-veteran serving previously at Dinosaur National Monument and Everglades National Park. Most recently Parkes served as Law Enforcement Supervisor for field staff at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve.

Parkes will now lead the Visitor and Resource Protection division in law enforcement, emergency medical services, search and rescue, special use permits and commercial use authorizations.

Parkes had previously served as a supervisor at Dinosaur National Monument and a field training officer during his time at Everglades National Park.

Parkes has a Masters in Parks & Resource Management from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania.Parkes is excited to be in this new role and strengthen the relationships with surrounding agencies and communities.

Parkes is committed to promoting responsible recreation while balancing the needs of preservation and enjoyment.

-NPS