On Saturday, September 14, NWRA's Vice President of Government Affairs, Desiree Sorenson-Groves, traveled to Huron, South Dakota to honor the very deserving Friends Group of the Year, the Friends of Maga Ta-Hohpi (pronounced Maha-ta-hopie) Waterfowl Production Area (WPA). The Friends of Maga Ta-Hohpi even received congratulations from Senator Tim Johnson with a message that read "Congratulations to the Maga Ta-Hohpi Friends Group on this tremendous honor! You all have helped connect countless people to wetlands and wildlife conservation through fun and educational events. This award speaks volumes about the dedication of your volunteers, the effectiveness of partnerships, and the importance of the Maga Ta-Hopi Waterfowl Production Area. Congratulations again, and keep up the great work!"

The Friends of Maga Ta-Hohpi is comprised of 40 members who support the waterfowl refuge located just a few miles west of Huron. These members work extremely hard to fundraise and sustain the refuge.

Frank Admundson, who accepted the award on behalf of the Friends of Maga Ta-Hohpi was interviewed by the Huron Statesman where he expressed his gratitude, especially to the members of the Group. "We have a fantastic working relationship with the National Fish and Wildlife Center," said Amundson. "But if not for our dedicated members none of this would be possible."

Because of federal budget cuts, national wildlife refuges everywhere have been struggling just to keep the doors open. Despite these immense challenges, the Friends of Maga Ta-Hohpi have stepped up to the plate to rise above the challenges and continue to raise money through fundraisers and donations. Amundson attributed this drive in his interview with the Huron Statesman to the understanding that they are doing this for the greater good. "It's all for the benefit of you. Our goal is to bring ourselves back to nature. I hope when you come out here on our trails you can take a walk around in nature."

The presentation of the award was done at Huron Prairie Fest, an event held at the Maga Ta Hopi Waterfowl Production Area, full of activities and hands on experiences with nature themes. The event was a fantastic way to honor this astounding group of and reflected the values that the Friends of Maga Ta-Hohpi hold. Amundson stated that "I want my grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and future generations to enjoy it" referring to the refuge.

Mrs. Sorenson-Groves was deeply impressed by all of the work the Friends have done. "Really the amount that they give back to this refugee is amazing. For a group of around 40 people it is pretty amazing. They're doing this because it's an American 'giving-back' ethic."

For the complete article, please visit http://www.plainsman.com/v2_news_articles.php?heading=0&page=72&story_id=20801

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