DCNR named new manager of Laurel Hill State Park complex in Southwestern PA
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has appointed Ben Monk as the new park operations manager for the Laurel Hill State Park Complex, which includes Laurel Hill, Laurel Ridge and Kooser state parks in southwestern Pennsylvania.
Monk steps into the role with more than a decade of experience at DCNR, most recently serving as park manager at Beltzville State Park. His background also includes work in the U.S. Army and the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.
The Laurel Hill complex spans thousands of acres across Somerset County and is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, Civilian Conservation Corps legacy, and public land partnerships. Monk now oversees a wide range of park operations, from visitor services to resource management.
The transition comes as former park operations manager Mike Mumau moves into a broader leadership role overseeing multiple state parks in the Laurel Highlands region, including the Laurel Hill complex, Ohiopyle and Keystone state parks.
Monk holds a degree in Park and Recreation Management from California University of Pennsylvania and enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and two sons.
DCNR continues to promote Pennsylvania's public lands through the 'Great American Getaway' campaign, encouraging outdoor recreation and tourism across the Commonwealth.
For more information on state park programs and events, visit www.dcnr.pa.gov.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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