Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources Chair Suzanne Case has chosen Curt Cottrell to serve as the next administrator of the State Parks Division.

Cottrell, who has worked for DLNR the past 25 years, will replace retiring administrator Dan Quinn, according to a DLNR release late Wednesday.

“Curt’s selection to lead State Parks capitalizes on a long list of accomplishments and experience, as he has worked in a variety of capacities since joining DLNR in 1991,” Case said in the release.

“He has developed a deep understanding of policy, regulation, and community engagement through the years,” she said. “I’m delighted Curt will build on the leadership created by his mentor, former State Parks Administrator Dan Quinn.”

Cottrell said he’s honored to accept the position.

“My leisure activities keep me centered and connected to Hawaii’s unique and diverse outdoor environment, and include cycling, kayaking, trail running and outrigger canoe paddling,” he said.

“I am passionate about fostering in my kids (two daughters) and future generations, a sense of appreciation for Hawaii’s natural and cultural resources that are really exemplified in Hawaii’s state trails and parks,” Cottrell said in the release. “It is a rare privilege to now be in a leading stewardship position to care for parklands that encompass Hawaii’s most unique and precious natural and cultural resources.”

Cottrell started as the Oahu trails and access specialist in the Division of Forestry and Wildlife. Most recently, he has served as assistant administrator of the State Parks Division.