Marquette resident Don Britton has been nominated for a Governor's Service Award in recognition of his dedicated volunteerism over the past 13 years, Department of Natural Resources officials announced today.

Britton, who has volunteered for countless outdoor recreation causes in Marquette County, was nominated for Senior Volunteer of the Year by DNR Forest Mineral and Fire Management Gwinn Unit Supervisor Bill Brondyke.

"As a lifelong resident of Marquette, Don's vision has been to improve recreational opportunities right here in his community," Brondyke said. "In all these areas of volunteer work, Don has focused his energy as a tireless volunteer to develop, maintain and support all recreational opportunities in Marquette County while using tact and a sincere touch of humor. These qualities make working with Don a pleasure."

Some of the organizations Britton has volunteered for include the Marquette County and Chocolay Township recreational trail committees, Michigan U.P. Snowmobile Association, Western Upper Peninsula DNR Citizens Advisory Council, Iron Ore Heritage Trail Board and the City of Marquette Heartwood Advisory Board. Britton also served as a volunteer for both the Noquemanon Cross Country Ski Race and U.P. 200 Sled Dog Race, was a grant sponsor for the Hiawatha Trails Snowmobile Trail and also was a Chocolay Township trustee for 10 years.

"In all of these pursuits, Don has proven himself to be the living definition of volunteerism and it is my pleasure to nominate him for the Governor's Service Award," Brondyke said.

Governor's Service Award nominations are taken each year for eight categories that recognize the outstanding individuals, organizations and businesses serving their communities through volunteerism. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/mcsc/.