Thanks to Rita Hussman and Skip Essman!

The Center would like recognize and thank two long time, former State Advocates for their commitment and dedication to the Leave No Trace program and promotion of responsible recreation. Without the efforts of these two volunteers the Leave No Trace would not have the success it does in Minnesota or Alabama!

Rita Hussman, Minnesota

Rita Hussman has led the charge of the Leave No Trace movement in Minnesota for over seven years. She played an integral role in the development of the Leave No Trace Minnesota Chapter, one of the Center’s first two state chapters. During her time as a State Advocate, Rita dedicated thousands of hours to promoting Leave No Trace and responsible recreation with various agencies and partner groups. She also received the President’s Volunteer Service award for her work with Leave No Trace and as a Minnesota Master Naturalist.

Skip Essman, Alabama

Skip Essman was one of the Center’s longest standing Advocates holding the position for over a decade. While in his role as State Advocate, Skip reached thousands of people with Leave No Trace education. He helped to bring on the Alabama State Parks program as an official partner of the Center and worked hard to promote Leave No Trace ethics within the parks. Additionally, he played a large role in helping Cheaha State Park obtain Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site status.

Thank you Skip and Rita for your unwavering dedication to Leave No Trace! Interested in becoming a Leave No Trace State Advocate? Click here to learn more.