2024 Bob Parlette Award Honors Diane Priebe for Outstanding Service

Bob Parlette (1941-2017) was a tenacious visionary whose commitment to public service and outdoor recreation left an indelible mark on North Central Washington. The Bob Parlette Award is an annual recognition given to individuals who demonstrate similar dedication to public service and outdoor experiences in our region.

The 2024 Bob Parlette Award was presented to Diane Priebe at TREAD’s 4th Quarter Ex Officio Roundtable meeting in November. Bob Parlette’s widow and former Washington State Senator, Linda Evans Parlette was in attendance to honor her late husband's legacy of public service and community engagement.

Diane is an Outdoor Recreation Planner with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM), where she is responsible for managing and maintaining BLM recreation assets across Central Washington. She has dedicated nearly her entire career to BLM, with over 20 years of service out of the Wenatchee Field Office.

"Diane serves her community both through her professional work and personal life," said Lisa Foster, Associate Director of TREAD. "She is a leader in the world of outdoor recreation and stewardship, and I have learned so much from working with her."

According to her supervisor, Assistant Field Manager Jon Meier, "Diane has been the primary force behind transforming the once lawless, undeveloped, and neglected Yakima Canyon campgrounds and boat ramps into a clean, safe, and desirable destination that attracts over 500,000 users annually."

"Diane’s boundless energy and positive attitude make her a pleasure to supervise and work with," continued Meier. "Her passion for providing excellent experiences for all recreationists on public lands is inspiring."

In addition to her work in recreation management, Diane has been instrumental in forging partnerships to increase capacity and enhance educational opportunities on BLM lands.

“She has addressed equity and access on public lands long before many recognized the barriers that exist for some people in outdoor recreation,” said Elisa Lopez, Engagement Manager with the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust.

Diane’s commitment to public service and outdoor recreation, combined with her dedication to stewardship and community engagement, reflects the values that Bob Parlette championed throughout his life. Her contributions will have a lasting, positive impact on the region for years to come.