Tia Parks. Photo provided

By Sammie Garrity - Boreal Community Media - September 10, 2024

Cook County’s Tia Parks was recently nominated for a Carol Mortensen Invasive Species Management Award from the Minnesota Invasive Species Advisory Council (MISAC). This honor is given to someone who has made great strides toward managing the spread of invasive species in Minnesota. Parks’ nomination is in response to her significant work protecting Minnesota's natural resources.

A Tennessee native, Parks traveled to the Midwest to study biology and sociology and worked summers on the Gunflint Trail. The beginning of her professional career reflected this tenacity as she worked as a wilderness guide, naturalist, and recreation director for a few years. 

Parks has worked as the Cook County Agricultural Inspector since May 2022. She is tasked with conserving natural resources in Cook County. An agricultural inspector ensures the safety and quality of agricultural practices. Whether protecting whole ecosystems or native plants, her role is critical to keeping Cook County agriculture safe. 

“I manage invasive species, plant and nurture native species, and direct many outreach efforts,” Parks told Boreal Community Media. 

Her job doesn’t stop there, however. Part of the reasoning behind her nomination is that she goes above and beyond. Taking on a more active role, she has amplified the program's visibility in an effort to engage with the community. This outreach is critical to the program's effectiveness and shines a light on the important work they are doing. 

“I think I've done a really good job at pulling together the efforts of agencies across Cook County to make us more effective as a whole,” said Parks. 

Up until this summer her work was done alone, which is a major undertaking. Being that Cook County is primarily made up of diverse ecosystems, it is quite a challenge to manage that solo. Now, Parks shares that responsibility and is part of a team coined the Cook County Invasives Team. They work with agencies like the USFS and DNR in order to curb the spread of invasive species. This collaborative effort is critical because the combination of all these resources can ensure the job gets done thoroughly and effectively.

“It's a multi-agency group that collaborates on invasive species management,” said Parks.

Whether Parks wins this award or not, being nominated is a huge testament to the important work she has been doing for years. Management of invasive species isn’t always glamorous work, and it doesn’t always get recognized for its importance. Being able to tackle such a large project alone—until recently—is extremely commendable.

“I still consider myself a rookie in many ways, but it seems like I am already making an impact,” said Parks. 

Parks and her team have been discussing starting programs involving biochar—a processed plant matter rich in carbon that is used to help grow crops—and a weed-free gravel pit. Both of which are important environmental efforts. Clearly not a rookie anymore, her work doesn’t stop with or without the award.