LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The Anderson Marsh Interpretive Association has been named “Cooperating Association of the Year” by the California League of Parks Association, or CALPA.

CALPA serves as a support organization for nonprofit associations such as AMIA that are affiliated with state parks throughout California.

The award was accepted by AMIA Board member Lisa Wilson at the recent CALPA conference at Anza Borrego State Park.

“Members of CALPA gather every year for educational conferences that offer workshops, speakers and a chance to network with other park organizations and State Parks personnel,” stated Wilson. “This year, I represented AMIA at the conference and was thrilled to accept the award for our association in recognition of AMIA’s outstanding efforts in keeping Anderson Marsh State Historic Park open and thriving during the recent State Parks budget crisis.”

Wayne Breece, California State Parks Cooperating Association Program director, praised AMIA’s efforts to keep the park open, stating that “the seven members of the AMIA’s board are passionate about the park. Their efforts to support the interpretation and maintenance of this unique site are an inspiration to all of us.”

“AMIA has been responsible for donating significant funds to State Parks that has allowed Anderson Marsh State Historic Park to stay open and thrive,” said Bill Salata, superintendent of State Parks Clear Lake Sector. “AMIA each year facilitates school field trips by hundreds of Lake County elementary school children and AMIA volunteers lead regular guided nature walks for the pubic and for senior tours. Without the dedication of the AMIA volunteers that lead these interpretive activities, it is doubtful that the robust interpretive program that exists at AMSHP could continue.”

According to Henry Bornstein, AMIA’s Treasurer, “AMIA continues to raise the funds needed to keep Anderson Marsh State Historic Park open and available to the people of Lake County and the Park’s many visitors. With the help of the local community, AMIA will be able to continue to offer its guided nature walks and tours, student field trips and other public events such as its annual old-fashioned ‘Christmas at the Ranch’ open house.”

For information about AMIA or the park, call 707-995-2658, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , or visit www.andersonmarsh.org or www.facebook.com/AMIA.org .