Mike Wilkins, District Ranger on the Nantahala Ranger District of Nantahala National Forest, recently received the Duke Power Citizenship and Service Award from the Franklin Chamber of Commerce in North Carolina. The award is a recognition of outstanding volunteer service and civic participation from individuals or groups who make a difference in their communities.

Wilkins recieved effusive thanks for his work enhancing recreation sites, pursuing and receiving grants contributing to improved tourism, and leadership and service during last fall’s historic wildfire season.