Watertown Appoints Matt Brandsrud as New Parks, Recreation and Forestry Director

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - The City of Watertown has appointed Matt Brandsrud as its new Director of Parks, Recreation and Forestry, selecting a longtime department leader and Watertown native to oversee the city’s parks, recreation programs, forestry operations, cemetery services, and public amenities.

Brandsrud’s appointment was announced Tuesday by the Office of the City Manager.

A Career Built in Watertown’s Parks System

Brandsrud has spent much of his professional life serving the Watertown community. A graduate of the University of South Dakota with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, he began working seasonally for the city’s Parks Division as a ballfield maintenance worker while attending college.

After three years working outside Watertown, he returned in 2012 as a full‑time Park Technician. In 2019, he was promoted to Parks and Forestry Superintendent, a role in which he helped oversee maintenance and development of parks, trails, athletic facilities, and urban forestry.

City Manager Alan Stager praised the internal promotion, saying: “I am pleased to have found our new director of parks and recreation inside the city… the team has built an outstanding park and recreation asset in the community that truly shows the spirit of Watertown.”

Brandsrud Looks Ahead

Brandsrud said he is eager to continue strengthening the department and supporting its staff.

“We have an incredible team that cares deeply about serving our community, and I look forward to supporting them as we continue providing outstanding parks, programs, and facilities for residents,” he said.

He emphasized that parks and recreation are about more than maintaining facilities.

“Our department helps create places where families make memories, neighbors connect, and people develop a sense of pride in our community,” Brandsrud said.

About the New Director

Outside of work, Brandsrud enjoys hunting, fishing, camping, and spending time with his family. His wife, Cristina, is a special education teacher at Jefferson Elementary, and together they have two children, Addie and Bryson.

City Congratulates Brandsrud

The City of Watertown congratulated Brandsrud on his appointment and expressed confidence in his continued leadership as the department works to enhance recreation opportunities and public spaces across the community.

At a media conference today, Mayor Ried Holien commented that Watertown is fortunate to have had two excellent internal candidates, including Josh Maag, the current Recreation Superintendent.

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