Ballardite Bret Wirta has joined the Washington’s National Park Fund Board of Directors and brings with him a wide range of experience and leadership in conservation and business.

Wirta is thee owner and CEO of Wirta Hospitality Worldwide which builds, owns and manages community-inspired hospitality projects. His most recent project, The Holiday Inn Express and Conference Center in Sequim, features a 44-solar panel array on the roof of the new conference center. Wirta’s goal is to show fellow owners and developers that sustainability is economically compatible with affordability.

“Bret’s efforts in promoting environmental sustainability will be invaluable to the board,” said Washington’s National Park Fund Board President Greg Moga.

“I look forward to working with him in fulfilling our mission of preserving and protecting Washington’s National Parks.”

An avid hiker, Wirta especially likes the Olympic Peninsula. His latest project is launching a website designed to reach those who are not regular hikers or who may never have explored the Olympic Peninsula.

“As a community leader and business owner, Bret understands the special tie our national parks have to the area,” said Olympic National Park Superintendent Karen Gustin.

“His expertise will be beneficial as we work to strengthen the parks’ bonds to their communities and enhance the visitor experience.”

To learn more about Washington’s National Park Fund, visit www.wnpf.org.