Brett Feldman named Parks & Trails Council executive director

April 22, 2010 (St. Paul, MN) – The Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota is pleased to announce the appointment of Brett Feldman to the position of executive director. Feldman will lead the 56-year-old organization in its mission to acquire, protect and enhance critical lands for the public’s use and benefit.

Since 1954, the Parks & Trails Council has been instrumental in adding more than 10,000 acres of land valued at $29 million to Minnesota’s public parks and trails. Feldman will be working closely with the current 28-member Board of Directors to continue to save key lands and be a strong voice for parks and trails in our state. Feldman will be responsible for leadership, development, and management of all Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota programs and activities.

“Brett’s passion, energy, and vision combined with his appreciation for the organization’s past make him ideally suited to lead Parks & Trails to the next level,” said Board Chair Steve Thorne. “He will be a great leader as the organization continues to fulfill its mission, work strategically into the future and contribute to Minnesota’s outstanding outdoor opportunities.”

“It is an honor to serve Minnesota’s most influential parks and trails organization in this capacity,” said Feldman. “I look forward to our next and ongoing innovations as we enjoy Minnesota’s natural masterpieces and preserve them for future generations.”

A Minnesota native, Feldman holds a bachelor of individualized studies degree from the University of Minnesota and a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Feldman joined the Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota in 2005 as communications director, and has been acting executive director since August of 2009. Previously, Feldman worked in communications for the Minneapolis Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) and as a reporter for the Columbia Missourian and internationally in Jamaica and South Africa. As the son of a lifelong parks and recreation administrator, Feldman has conservation values instilled in him, with a keen understanding of the importance that parks and recreational opportunities play in improving the quality of life for all people.