New county parks director selected

Following a nationwide search, Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu has selected Bennett Knox to take on the role of director of Whatcom County Parks and Recreation. His appointment requires confirmation by Whatcom County Council.

Bennett Knox worked for Louisville Metro Parks for 20 years, most recently as parks administrator for the natural areas division and Jefferson Memorial Forest.  For the past 9 years, Bennett also founded and managed the non-profit group Wilderness Louisville, whose mission is to fundraise and advocate for the Natural Areas Division of Louisville Parks and Recreation. 

Knox earned a B.S. in Natural Resource Conservation, followed by a M.E.M. at Duke University in Resource Ecology. He is also a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP).

Knox will begin in his new position after Labor Day. Michael McFarlane, the previous director, retired on June 21. Christ Thomsen, parks operations manager, will serve as interim director until Knox assumes the position.