—Long-time land steward to receive award at Second Annual AlpinFilm Festival—
[Jackson, WY, January 9, 2024] – The Teton Climbers’ Coalition announced that Linda Merigliano, Recreation Program Manager for the Jackson and Black Rock areas of the Bridger-Teton National Forest, is the recipient of its inaugural Local Hero Award.
The recognition celebrates Merigliano’s decades of contributions and unwavering dedication to wilderness stewardship in the Greater Teton area.
The TCC will present Merigliano with the award at the Center for the Arts on Saturday, January 20th, during its second annual AlpinFilm Festival.
Merigliano’s connection to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem began in 1979, when she started working as a volunteer backcountry ranger in the Targhee National Forest. That connection deepened in the 1980s through climbing, as she and her husband, Mike, spent extensive time on the mountaineering routes of the Tetons.
After completing graduate school, Merigliano returned to the Teton area, working at Grand Targhee ski area during the winters and in the Jedediah Smith Wilderness in the summers. In 1991, she was asked by United States Forest Service wildlife biologist Susan Marsh to transfer to the Bridger-Teton National Forest, beginning a career with the USFS unit that has spanned more than thirty years.
When asked to cite a highlight from her decades of public service, Merigliano noted the work she’d been able to do with citizens to develop wilderness plans for Teton, Gros Ventre and Bridger Wilderness areas.
“I do this job,” she said, “because it’s the ultimate democratic process — working on behalf of an amazing landscape with all kinds of people through all kinds of issues to make things better on the ground. Being directly involved in those conversations has been a real honor. It’s what keeps me here.”
“Linda is the ultimate steward,” said Christian Beckwith, Executive Director of the Teton Climbers’ Coalition. “Whenever a public land issue arises, she’s at the head of the conversation, shepherding multiple priorities toward consensus to ensure we’re able to enjoy this majestic place responsibly for years to come.”
“She never seeks recognition for her work,” he continued. “She does it because she believes it’s the right thing to do. We’re thrilled to be able to honor her profound contributions with this award.”
ABOUT THE TETON CLIMBERS’ COALITION:
The Teton Climbers’ Coalition is a 501c3 non-profit organization that stewards, advocates and engages on behalf of Teton climbers. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and at www.tetonclimbers.com.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Christian Beckwith
Executive Director