North Dakota's parks and recreation director has been honored by his peers with the Distinguished Service Award from the National Association of State Park Directors.

Doug Prchal received the award at the group's national conference at Boise, Idaho, Sept 4.

It's presented annually to recognize a state park director who has demonstrated a long-term record of professional accomplishment in the the field of parks and recreation management.

Prchal, a Killdeer native, has been with the department 25 years, 11 as a parks planner and the past 14 years as director.

He was nominated by his staff, who said he continues to protect and preserve many of the same projects he helped design.

Some of those projects include Cross Ranch State Park, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, the Pioneer Heritage Center, the Sunne Farmstead at Fort Ransom State Park and the reconstruction of Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park.

Doug Hofer, South Dakota parks director, said Prchal has shown outstanding leadership and vision on projects and issues common to both state.

"Doug is a true professional," he said.

"I have worked with Doug on a variety of issues … and have always been impressed with (his) commitment to his state and to our profession and believe he's very deserving of this honor."

Prchal said the award came as quite a surprise as his staff did an outstanding job of keeping the honor under wraps before the convention.

He gave credit to his staff and the many volunteer organizations and individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

In North Dakota, Prchal said there is a real alignment with volunteer groups working with agencies for the good of the state.

He said the Sodbusters event at Fort Ransom, now in it's 25th year, is a prime example.

"It's phenomenal when you think about it.

"We get to stand up and accept the awards," he said. "But working together with others we're able to deliver outdoor opportunities.

"We're a stage, a destination, if you will," Prchal said.

"When your peers select you, it really is an honor."