During a rain storm or snow melt, do you notice how efficiently the water runoff drains or how the detention ponds throughout Parker help prevent flooding? Meet Rick Dennett, who serves as a Stormwater Supervisor in the Town’s Stormwater Division.
Rick and the Stormwater Operations team work to make sure that all Stormwater systems in Parker are properly maintained to prevent flooding, protect water quality and preserve the natural creeks and gulches throughout the Town. The team maintains and inspects more than 333 Stormwater retention/detention ponds and all other related infrastructure.
Read on to learn more about Rick!
How long have you worked for the Town of Parker? Where did you work before Parker?
"I’ve worked for Parker for 17 years, prior to which I worked for the Forest Service fighting wild land fires in Montana."
What do you love most about working for the Town of Parker?
"I enjoy working in a community of Parker’s size because it has allowed me to really get to know the community and all of the infrastructure that I support. I also appreciate the variety that comes with having an outdoor job and four seasons of work."
What’s one thing that you feel sets Parker apart from other communities?
"Parker’s still a young town and I’ve been able to walk so much of the land and drainage ways in my job and see some beautiful territory and wildlife."
What’s the strangest thing you’ve done as part of your job?
"It would have to be rescuing many animals out the Stormwater inlets like baby doves, baby ducks, and a skunk from Railbender Skate and Tennis Park. Other items I’ve retrieved from drainage ways include keys, backpacks, skateboards and remote control cars!"
What’s one thing you didn’t expect about working for the Town of Parker?
"It would probably have to be the growth and changes that have taken place in Parker over the past 17 years."
What are you most proud of in your job?
"I’m most proud of the good managers and teamwork that brought me to a supervisor’s position and I really enjoys my work."
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?
"I enjoy cooking, mountain biking, swimming and attending outdoor concerts. One thing I can’t live without is time off to enjoy nature, people and hobbies!"
Thanks, Rick, for all you do for the Parker community!