Mackinac State Historic Parks has received the first Michigan Department of History, Arts and Libraries' Teamwork Award for its revitalization of Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park near Mackinaw City.

The award was announced Tuesday, December 23.

The award was created to recognize the outstanding work of employees who best exemplify the value of teamwork. Teamwork, as defined by the department, means to focus on what can be done together, sharing information, resources, and energy.

"We are very honored to receive the first-ever HAL Teamwork Award for the Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park project," said Parks Director Phil Porter. "The award not only recognizes the success of the project but, more importantly, our teamwork process that emphasizes diverse and inclusive membership on our project committees."

The implementation in 2008 of the Adventure Tour and other interactive elements at the park was a culmination of three years of effort by the agency and its eightmember Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park Team. Representatives from all areas of the park, including museum programs, park operations, development and marketing, and administration, brought a variety of skills and knowledge to the project. From conceptualization of the new logo to finalization of the interpretive elements of the park, each step was debated and discussed by the entire team.

"The project provided an opportunity for staff from various work areas to think broadly about the entire site, from interpretation to food service," said Steven Brisson, chief curator and team chairman.

As a result of the revitalization of Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, there was a 31% attendance increase in the 2008 season, with more than 51,000 guests visiting the park and 18,500 visitors participating in the Adventure Tour, the parks reported.