Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Employees Receives Division Awards – Z93 Country (2024)

More than two dozen Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources employees have received special awards for outstanding service in 2023.

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Commissioner Rich Storm and Deputy Commissioners Brian Clark and Gabe Jenkins were on hand as directors from all seven agency divisions presented awards to deserving staff, including Administrative Services; Engineering, Infrastructure and Technology; Fisheries; Information and Education; Law Enforcement; Marketing; and Wildlife.

NOTE:To assist news outlets interested in localizing this material, each employee’s county of residence is included in the summaries, along with total years of service with Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. Photographs by Rachel Cummings, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIVISION

Administrative Excellence Award
John Akers, Program Coordinator (Shelby County), 33 years

Pictured (left to right):Assistant Director of Administrative Services Melissa Trent, John Akers, Administrative Services Division Director Lisa Cox, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

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Akers received this award for his outstanding service and dedication in 2023 in the Purchasing Branch in the Administrative Services Division, where he has worked for the last two years, but his work in multiple divisions for more than 30 years of service to Kentucky Fish and Wildlife was also recognized.

Lisa Cox, Administrative Services director, noted that although John is quick to credit his success to his teammates, “he was recognized for his exceptional commitment by running the agency’s successful live auction, the first in more than three years following COVID-19, a responsibility that had historically been coordinated by the branch manager position.”

Cox also credits Akers meticulous tracking and maintaining of the agency’s fixed asset inventory, fleet management, and confiscated items, as well as his initiative to streamline and enhance management procedures that contributed significantly to the overall efficiency of the agency.

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ENGINEERING, INFRASTRUCTURE AND TECHNOLOGY DIVISION (EIT)

Engineering Excellence Award
John Roberts, Information Systems Manager (Franklin County), 11 years

Pictured (left to right):Deputy Commissioner Brian Clark, Engineering, Infrastructure and Technology Division Acting Director Kevin Rexroat, John Roberts, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

Roberts received this award for a sustained level of exceptional job performance as Information Systems Manager for the Technology Branch. His section has seen substantial programmatic changes over the last three years while enduring staffing shortfalls from retirement and turnover. Despite challenges that produced an increased workload, Roberts performed diligently to implement programmatic enhancements within his branch, serving the current and projected needs of the agency and its customers.

Whether enrolling a child in conservation camp, registering for a quota hunt, or managing a hunting or fishing license profile, the public has benefited from Robert’s management of the agency website. Kevin Rexroat, acting director of the EIT Division said of Roberts, “his commitment and efforts provide wide-ranging, and often unspoken benefits to agency staff and thousands of virtual customers.” Roberts has been with the agency for 11 years.

Engineering, Infrastructure and Technology (EIT) Initiative Award
Richard Cook, Highway Superintendent (Bullitt County), 13.5 years

Pictured (left to right):​ Richard Cook and Engineering, Infrastructure and Technology Division Acting Director Kevin Rexroat.

Given to an employee who, without provocation, demonstrates willingness to perform duties above and beyond those that are required, Cook received this award for producing positive outcomes even when faced with challenges outside his control.

Despite losing full-time staff within his section that is responsible for constructing new boat ramps, in the middle of construction season in 2023, he was still able to assemble the necessary resources and complete three high-use, quality boat ramps at Pond River, Beaver Lake and Wilgreen Lake.

“His initiative on these three ramps represents his can- and will-do attitude even when faced with challenges beyond his control,” Rexroat said. Cook has served the agency and EIT Division for nearly 14 years in multiple technical roles prior to his current supervisory role. Rexroat noted that Cook “continues to be an extremely productive member and leader of our team.”

FISHERIES DIVISION

Director’s Award
Adam Martin, Fisheries Program Coordinator (Calloway County), 10 years

Pictured:​ Adam Martin.

As a program coordinator who has been with Kentucky Fish and Wildlife for more than 10 years, Martin was chosen to receive this award because he played an instrumental role in the creation and communication of the agency’s important Florida Bass and Alabama Bass FAQ documents, providing pertinent information to the public.

Martin is the Chair of the Fisheries Division Black Bass Management Team and he summarized the research results from the agency’s initial black bass genetics assessment gathered from multiple lakes across the state and Minor Clark Hatchery in Morehead. He also created multiple Facebook videos which he posted on the Western Kentucky Fisheries Facebook page.

“Adam’s ability to lead and communicate led to important black bass information reaching the public in a timely manner which was critical to the Fisheries Division,” said Dave Dreves, director of the Fisheries Division.

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Initiative Award
Maddy Ruble, Fisheries Biologist II (Daviess County), 4.5 years

Pictured (left to right):Fisheries Division Assistant Director Jeff Ross, Fisheries Division Director Dave Dreves, Maddy Ruble, and Commissioner Rich Storm

Presented to an employee who demonstrates outstanding initiative, Ruble received this award for going above and beyond on her own projects as well as group projects across the state. “Maddy can communicate and interact with division staff in a way that makes her a natural leader,” Dreves said. “Maddy’s confidence in her communication skills allows her to take initiative when necessary to help push a project along.”

On two different projects, for fish habitat construction and the creation of an important Fisheries resource document, this Daviess County resident saw that a critical task that was needed to complete each project and jumped in to make sure it got done. Ruble has worked for Kentucky Fish and Wildlife for almost 4 ½ years.

Kerry Prather Award of Distinction
Rod Middleton, Fish Hatchery Manager (Rowan County), 30 years

Pictured (left to right):Fisheries Division Assistant Director Josh Pennington, Fisheries Division Director Dave Dreves, Rod Middleton, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

A resident of Rowan County, Middleton has been the Fish Hatchery Manager at Minor E. Clark Fish Hatchery for the past 17 years of his 30-year career with Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. During his tenure he has shown a strong commitment to creating the most cost-effective methods for the hatchery to efficiently complete fish production and stockings.

“Middleton has generously offered the hatchery facilities and crew to work with other divisions and branches, such as assisting in the mussel and hellbender rearing with the Wildlife Division, making space for the Law Enforcement Division, or providing staff and equipment to help with fish habitat projects and electrofishing,” Dreves said. “And the list goes on.”

Dreves also noted that Middleton’s long tenure, dedication and compassion to his staff makes him deserving of the Kerry W. Prather Award of Distinction.

Sustained Excellence Award
David Baker, Fisheries Biologist IV (Scott County), 18 years

Pictured (left to right):Fisheries Division Assistant Director Jeff Ross, Fisheries Division Director Dave Dreves, David Baker, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

A resident of Scott County, Baker is a nearly 18-year employee who has shown a high level of performance in his job duties over the years. He came to the Central Fisheries District from the Stream Research Section where he completed a significant amount of work on many streams across the state, including the development of a new stream access page on the agency’s website (www.fw.ky.gov).

Baker has annually planned, organized, and completed multiple habitat projects on district lakes, including construction and deployment of habitat structures, and the coordination of sportsman’s groups, boy scouts, and high school fishing teams to help with the construction. He has also led several bass management projects at district lakes, which has included up to five electrofishing boat crews and hatchery personnel. The projects have shown success in thinning numbers of crowded bass and improving overall growth in these lakes.

“These a just a few examples of instances where David has shown excellence in performance over time leading to improvements to fish populations and angler catch in the Central Fisheries District,” Dreves said.

Team Player Award
Kathryn Greene, Environmental Scientist II (Franklin County), 2 years

Pictured (left to right):Fisheries Division Environmental Scientist Kristy Stroud, Fisheries Division Director Dave Dreves, Kathryn Greene, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

A Franklin County resident who has been with the agency for only two years, Greene received this award for her eagerness to help wherever and however needed, including helping seasonal employees quickly learn the diverse and complex duties in the stream and wetland mitigation program.

Greene is credited for using her many skillsets to unselfishly to help others whether organizing projects, interpreting programming to help others get up to speed more easily, training new seasonal employees or staying extra hours in the field to get the job done.

Dreves noted that Greene “has the unique ability even at this early stage in her professional career of seeing the big picture. Her get-it-done attitude, cheerful disposition, and willingness to help wherever and whenever needed fosters a positive work atmosphere.”

Technical and Administrative Employee Award of Distinction
Caleb Bentley, Fisheries Management Foreman (Franklin County), 5 years

Pictured (left to right):Fisheries Division Assistant Director Josh Pennington, Fisheries Division Director Dave Dreves, Caleb Bentley, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

Bentley began his career with Kentucky Fish and Wildlife at the Peter W. Pfeiffer Fish Hatchery as a seasonal technician in March of 2019 and was quickly promoted to Fish and Wildlife Management Foremen. His duties at the hatchery involve supervising and coordinating fish stockings across the state including coordinating with all other state hatcheries, maintaining stocking contacts, and managing the maintenance and repairs of trucks for the hatchery.

This Franklin County resident has voluntarily taken on weekend and evening duties at the hatchery and contributes aweekly stocking reportfor KY Afield TV.

“He is always willing to help other branches as times allows and will be the first to step in when volunteers are requested,” Dreves said. “Caleb leads by example, and this shows with his high level of dedication and passion for the job.”

INFORMATION AND EDUCATION DIVISION

Director’s Leadership Award
Megan Bagby, Information Office Supervisor (Jefferson County), 10 years

Pictured (left to right):Information and Education Division Assistant Director Nathan Brooks, Information and Education Division Director Kevin Kelly, Megan Bagby, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

Known throughout Kentucky Fish and Wildlife for her positive attitude, hard work and dedication, Bagby received this award for creating increased efficiency and excellence leading the agency’s public-facing Information Center. In her role as supervisor, she helps serve the needs of all those who rely on the department’s programs and services and provides information on fish and wildlife matters from across the agency.

Bagby organizes biannual seminars to keep her staff updated on regulations and departmental efforts, maintains valuable resources to reference to better serve the public, and shares public feedback and inquiries within the agency’s communications team.

“Despite facing personal challenges, Megan volunteered this past year to support colleagues and important events,” said Kevin Kelly, director for the Information and Education Division. “Her exceptional service and selflessness exemplify the spirit of a dedicated public servant, earning her the well-deserved honor of the I&E Director’s Award.”

Director’s Leadership Award
Kevin Osborne, Conservation Camp Superintendent (Carter County), 25 years

Pictured (left to right):Information and Education Division Assistant Director Emily Hogue, Information and Education Division Director Kevin Kelly, Kevin Osborne, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

With more than 25 years of experience in state government, Osborne is the superintendent at Camp Robert Webb in Carter County. He was chosen to receive the Information and Education Director’s Award for his dedicated service to Kentucky Fish and Wildlife and the kids who participate in conservation camp every summer.

With his wealth of experience, Osborne excels at managing all the concerns that a conservation camp presents. He is also known for his knack of fixing just about anything, has specialized water treatment certification, and, with his food safety certification, he can assist in the kitchen to help keep active kids well-nourished and ready for more camp fun.

“I really admire Kevin’s dedication, his ability to squeeze every last drop of life out of equipment, and, most importantly, the kind of person he is,” Kelly said. “He’s active in his church and always ready to lend a hand in relief efforts. That kind of generosity and warmth rubs off on everyone around him.”

Educator of the Year Award
Lisa Johnson, Conservation Educator IV (Floyd County), 7 years

Pictured (left to right):Information and Education Division Assistant Director Emily Hogue, Information and Education Division Director Kevin Kelly, Lisa Johnson, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

Johnson received this award for her dedication and advocation for the integration of archery in Kentucky schools through the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP), and the Kentucky NASP annual state tournament that hosted more than 8,600 student archers from 442 schools in 2023.

Before joining Kentucky Fish and Wildlife in 2016, Johnson was a math teacher who introduced her students to NASP as part of their curriculum. As an educator for the agency’s R3 branch, she successfully executes the largest state tournament nationally, and has significantly elevated the success and impact of the Kentucky NASP program to more than 800 schools statewide.

“Lisa consistently demonstrates unparalleled dedication and expertise in her role, particularly in her outstanding management of the Kentucky NASP program,” Kelly said. “Her adept communication skills extend seamlessly to principals, teachers, coaches, parents, and students, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.”

Initiative Award
Nikki Nivison, Conservation Educator II (Franklin County), 5 years

Pictured (left to right):Information and Education Division Assistant Director Nathan Brooks, Information and Education Division Director Kevin Kelly, Nikki Nivison, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

Nivison has worked at the Salato Wildlife Education Center in Frankfort, Ky., for five years and received this award for her approach at enhancing the center’s visitor experience.

Despite lacking formal maintenance training, Nivison goes beyond her role as a conservation educator to utilize her problem-solving skills and creativity to implement cost-effective solutions to keep the center in good repair, enabling Salato to stay ahead of maintenance challenges and significantly enhance the quality of both indoor and outdoor spaces for visitors and the wildlife that live there.

“Nikki’s unwavering dedication, innovative thinking, and proactive mindset exemplify her commitment to ensuring Salato remains both presentable and engaging for our visitors,” Kelly said. “Her contributions serve as a beacon of inspiration to others, rendering her a truly deserving recipient of this award.”

Manager of the Year Award
Clay Brummal, Conservation Camp Superintendent (Marshall County), 16 years

Pictured (left to right):Information and Education Division Assistant Director Emily Hogue, Information and Education Division Director Kevin Kelly, Clay Brummal, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

A steadfast presence at Camp John Currie for many years, Brummal progressed from a summer camp counselor to a full-time conservation educator, and eventually assumed the role of camp superintendent over his 16 years with Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. Known for his unique skillset and unwavering passion, he is recognized for the many camp improvements that have been made under his watch.

Brummal collaborates with camp staff to address concerns and implement suggestions to benefit operations and campers and employees, and he has expanded the impact of the Marshall County property during the off-season for other department activities and related events.

“Despite limitations in budget and resources, Clay demonstrates resourcefulness and determination every day, striving to make incremental improvements regardless of the challenges he faces,” Kelly said. “Most importantly, Clay has cultivated an environment of inclusivity and warmth, ensuring that all who visit feel welcomed.”

Technical Employee of the Year Award
Lee McClellan, Information Specialist II (Franklin County), 23 years

Pictured (left to right):Information and Education Division Assistant Director Nathan Brooks, Lee McClellan, Information and Education Division Director Kevin Kelly, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

A recognized voice for Kentucky Fish and Wildlife for 23 years, McClellan serves as the associate editor of Kentucky Afield magazine, co-host of the Kentucky Afield podcast, editor of various hunting and fishing guides, and is one of the most accomplished and versatile anglers in the region.

McClellan covers complex topics in a knowledgeable way while making the information more accessible to the public. He also takes the time to speak with multiple groups throughout the year covering magazine articles, fishing and kayaking tips and tricks. He goes out of his way to mentor others as well as lend a helping hand.

“Whether crafting a feature story for the magazine, penning a Kentucky Afield Outdoors column, or recording a podcast episode, Lee puts his heart and soul into every project,” Kelly said. “His genuine desire to help others achieve success in outdoor pursuits shines through in his work.”

“I appreciate watching Lee fish on a stream,” Kelly added. “It’s art.”

LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION

Kentucky Conservation Officers Lifesaving Award
Zack Carney, Conservation Officer Sergeant (Adair County), 7.5 years

Pictured (left to right):Law Enforcement Division Assistant Director Maj. David Marques, Sgt. Zack Carney, Commissioner Rich Storm, and Law Enforcement Division Assistant Director Maj. Greg Watts.

On July 7, 2023, Sgt. Carney saved the life of an infant girl while on patrol near Russell Springs in Russell County.

Traveling south on Highway 76, Carney noticed a vehicle behind him flashing their lights to get his attention. When they were stopped, two women in the car asked for help for a baby that was choking and unable to breathe. Carney performed back thrusts, then opened the infant’s mouth and performed a finger-sweep, dislodging a hard object he felt at the back of the infant’s throat. He took the baby to his patrol vehicle to monitor her breathing and to keep her in air conditioning until EMS arrived.

Sgt. Wayne Wilson, the Law Enforcement public information officer who nominated Carney for the award, spoke with the mother after the incident, who said the outcome would have been tragic if not for Carney’s life-saving action.

“She was very emotional when trying to talk about what took place on that particular day, and is extremely grateful for the actions of Sgt. Carney,” Wilson said. “She told me “‘I’m so thankful. He saved my child’s life.'”

National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) – Marvin “Butch” Potts Memorial Award-AND- United Bow Hunters of Kentucky Officer of the Year Award 2023* – “The Bud Reinizan Award”
Dylan Martin, Conservation Officer (Laurel County), 6.5 years

Pictured (left to right):Law Enforcement Division Assistant Director Maj. David Marques, United Bow Hunters ​of Kentucky representative Judy Roberts, Ofc. Dylan Martin, Commissioner Rich Storm, and Law Enforcement Division Assistant Director Maj. Greg Watts.

The only Kentucky Fish and Wildlife employee with the honor, Officer Martin was recognized with two achievement awards for 2023. He was awarded the NASBLA Butch Potts Memorial Award for outstanding service related to recreational boating safety, excelling in every potential aspect provided for in the award including search and rescue, heroic action, enforcement, education, outreach, innovation and investigation.

Given to a Kentucky Fish and Wildlife conservation officer of at least three years with a history of working with the sportsmen and clubs of their community, the United Bow Hunters of Kentucky Officer of the Year Award 2023* was given to Martin in part for his proven performance record for protecting wildlife and enforcing game laws.

With nearly seven years with the division, Martin has served as a field training officer, the hunting incident investigator for his district, and he has closed several big cases that have impacted the conservation of wildlife in his area. Most notably, Martin made a successful case against a hunter who was illegally hunting turkeys over bait and filming for his YouTube Channel. This resulted in hefty fines and a two-year hunting license suspension.

“Officer Martin strives to give back to my community and promote conservation and archery whenever possible,” said Col. Jeremy McQueary, director of the Law Enforcement Division. “He participates in local archery clubs as a lane official, speaks at Boy Scout Clubs about conservation and hunter safety, and speaks at local elementary schools about his career.”

*Due to a break in offering this award following the COVID-19 pandemic, the United Bow Hunters of Kentucky solicited nominations for Officer of the Year for 2021, 2022 and 2023 concurrently. See below for additional recipients.

National Wild Turkey Foundation State of Kentucky Officer of the Year Award
Carl Smith, Jr., Conservation Officer (Leslie County), 4 years

Pictured (left to right):Law Enforcement Division Assistant Director Maj. David Marques, Ofc. Carl Smith, Jr., Commissioner Rich Storm, and Law Enforcement Division Assistant Director Maj. Greg Watts

A Law Enforcement officer with Kentucky Fish and Wildlife for four years, Officer Smith has served in the Leslie County area since 2022, an area very popular for wild turkey hunting.

Throughout this time, Smith has consistently proved his capabilities as a wildlife officer and his support of wild turkey conservation and hunting. Each year, he has conducted numerous compliance checks and discovered illegal baiting sites, issued numerous citations and warnings, and he is recognized as a mentor to younger officers.

He has organized and participated in multiple Youth Turkey Season hunting events, including an event in Perry County where he worked to help secure shotguns for 20 youths to use and keep afterwards.

“As one of Officer Smith’s supervisors, I can tell you he is one of the most selfless, compassionate, and dedicated officers I have ever worked with,” said Maj. Greg Watts, deputy director of the Law Enforcement Division. “One thing that won’t show up in his activity is that he had a great turkey season for himself and got other officers involved.”

Smith previously received the agency’s Bravery Award in 2022 for heroic acts during the 2022 Eastern Kentucky floods, exhibiting his dedication to the people of his area.

Shikar Safari Officer of the Year Award
Trevor Lowe, Conservation Officer (Warren County), 7.5 years

Pictured:Ofc. Trevor Lowe.

Presented by the Kentucky Chapter of Safari Club International, Officer Lowe received this award for exemplary performance in his duties in the protection of wildlife, enforcement of game laws and implementation of conservation programs.

Lowe patrols several small and large water tributaries through Allen, Barren, Simpson and Warren Counties, and patrols wildlife management areas and private lands in Barren County. He has made cases and issued fish and wildlife citations to individuals in all the counties. He has worked hard to maintain a prominent law enforcement presence in the counties he has patrolled in his eight years of service.

In addition to the nearly 1,000 license checks he has performed during that time, Lowe has numerous arrests to his credit, including apprehending four convicted felons in possession of a firearm and one suspect in possession of a stolen handgun, three felony arrests on suspects for trafficking/drug possession, and 4 D.U.I. arrests in 2023.

“Officer Lowe has fielded numerous complaints from sportsmen and women about fishing violations, littering, public intoxication and drug activity at public ramps,” McQueary said, who added that Lowe “has done a great job in deterring criminal activity due to his patrol presence and enforcement action.”

Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (SEAFWA) – Officer of the Year Award
Greg Youree, Master Conservation Officer (Fulton County), 21 years

Pictured (left to right):Law Enforcement Division Assistant Director Maj. David Marques, Ofc. Greg Youree, Commissioner Rich Storm, and Law Enforcement Division Assistant Director Maj. Greg Watts.

Officer Youree received this national award for his invaluable service to his fellow officers and his community working for the agency’s Law Enforcement Division for more than 21 years and serving nearly 34 years as a law enforcement officer.

Youree excels in his law enforcement duties, including leading a multi-state investigation into the illegal taking of deer and joining with private lands biologists to streamline systems in the first district.

He was also instrumental in the development of a new public boat ramp in Hickman Harbor and has led the project to rebuild and maintain more user-friendly pathways through Laterneau Woods at Obion Creek WMA, both in Fulton County. He partnered with Fulton County Emergency Management and the Fulton County Extension Office to teach preparedness for adults and youth in boating and hunting and has assisted with numerous youth hunts, among many other contributions.

“Officer Youree comes to work each day with an excellent attitude of customer service, ready to work, and able to take on any challenges he may face,” McQueary said. “He has desire to be part of a team, working across district, region and state lines to accomplish tasks. He leads by example.”

United Bow Hunters of Kentucky Officer of the Year Award 2021*- “The Bud Reinizan Award”
Sgt. Ben Fisher, Conservation Officer Sergeant (Hardin County), 8.5 years

Pictured (left to right):Law Enforcement Division Assistant Director Maj. David Marques, United Bow Hunters of Kentucky representative Judy Roberts, Sgt. Ben Fisher, Commissioner Rich Storm, and Law Enforcement Division Assistant Director Maj. Greg Watts.

The United Bow Hunters of Kentucky Officer of the Year Award 2021 was given to Sgt. Fisher in part for a proven history of working with sportsmen and clubs of the community in the eight years he has been with Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. Specifically, he was recognized for his creation of an annual disabled youth deer hunt in Nelson County during the youth-only weekend in 2016 entitled Little Heroes Disabled Youth Hunt.

Each year, Fisher works with fellow officers and the community provide equipment, transportation, supplies and lunch for the youth with a range of physical and mental disabilities. At times using advanced equipment such as cell phone-mounted scope cams and trigger mechanisms, officers have assisted nearly 30 youth with aiming their rifles or firing hands-free.

“Sgt. Fisher works very hard throughout the year to provide this opportunity to a special group of youth who may otherwise not be able to participate in outdoor recreational opportunities,” McQueary said. “He has always served his department with fairness, civility, honesty, unselfishness, respect of the rules, setting a good example and acting responsibly.”

*Due to a break in offering this award following the COVID-19 pandemic, the United Bow Hunters of Kentucky solicited nominations for Officer of the Year for 2021, 2022 and 2023 concurrently.

United Bow Hunters of Kentucky Officer of the Year Award 2022* – “The Bud Reinizan Award”
Sgt. Jason Ping, Conservation Officer Sergeant (Kenton County), 14.5 years

Pictured (left to right):Law Enforcement Division Assistant Director Maj. David Marques, United Bow Hunters of Kentucky representative Judy Roberts, Sgt. Jason Ping, Commissioner Rich Storm, and Law Enforcement Division Assistant Director Maj. Greg Watts.

The United Bow Hunters of Kentucky Officer of the Year Award 2022 was given to Sgt. Ping in recognition of his dedication and exemplary execution of his duties. An officer with the department for nearly 15 years, his successful case management, outstanding field training with newer officers and his work with the community represents the best in his field.

Most notably, Ping was able to make and win a nationally prominent case of a hunter who illegally harvested a trophy-level deer. With extensive investigation, Ping determined that the man shot the deer out of firearms season, and from the roadway at night with headlights, but attempted to cover up the illegal kill by creating an elaborate story and altering physical evidence of the crime.

“Sgt. Ping represents the core values for Conservation Officers within the Law Enforcement Division,” McQueary said. “He is a ‘high activity’ officer. His officers work extremely hard, and he is very proud of their accomplishments.”

McQueary continued, “He takes pride in his efforts to mentor young hunters. Every year he mentors youths as they take on the same pursuits he had at a young age.”

*Due to a break in offering this award following the COVID-19 pandemic, the United Bow Hunters of Kentucky solicited nominations for Officer of the Year for 2021, 2022 and 2023 concurrently.

MARKETING DIVISION

Michael Gray Most Outstanding Performance Award
Brenda Ward-Hill, Assistant Director of Marketing (Anderson County), 20 years

Pictured (left to right):Marketing Division Director Brian Blank, Brenda Ward-Hill, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

The first recipient of this award, named after a former staff member who pioneered how Kentucky Fish and Wildlife now promotes itself, Ward-Hill received this award for her significant contributions to the Marketing Division, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and especially the outdoors sporting enthusiasts, Kentucky Wild members, and all of those who enjoy Kentucky’s abundant natural resources.

“Brenda’s standard of excellence this year has contributed to the agency’s outstanding achievements in revenue generating programs, and in growing support via our social and digital media channels,” said Brian Blank, director of the Marketing Division. “Brenda earns the customer’s trust and confidence one at a time in-person, or by the thousands via social and digital media.”

Ward-Hill has worked for Kentucky Fish and Wildlife for more than 20 years.

WILDLIFE DIVISION

Biologist of the Year Award
Ryan Taylor, Public Lands Wildlife Biologist (Breckinridge County), 16 years

Pictured (left to right):Wildlife Division Director Ben Robinson, Ryan Taylor, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

One of four peer-nominated awards, this honor was given to Taylor for his management of two agency properties southwest of Louisville, Yellowbank WMA and the Otter Creek Outdoor Recreation Area. He also served as the director for the public campground at Otter Creek, managing reservations and coordinating events including the Ragnar Trail Kentucky relay, two 5K events and a haunted forest.

Despite being extremely short staffed, Taylor coordinated multiple contracts for the use and management of each property, sought and received two outside grants for habitat improvement projects, and coordinated multiple wildlife and maintenance projects at the properties.

“In addition to his normal biologist duties, Ryan had to act as both a Wildlife Foreman and Wildlife Technician, and he did so without complaint,” said Ben Robinson, director of the Wildlife Division. “In addition, he was instrumental in the initial planning and site development of the new Belvedere Tract of Yellowbank WMA, and organized and led a crew of staff and volunteers to remove downed trees following a severe windstorm to reopen Otter Creek to the public.”

Director’s Leadership Award
John Zimmer, Purchase Region Coordinator (Crittenden County), 11 years

Pictured (left to right):Wildlife Division Director Ben Robinson, John Zimmer, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

Given by the Wildlife Division director to an individual providing outstanding leadership at the manager level, Zimmer was presented with this award for his oversight of Kentucky Fish and Wildlife’s properties in western Kentucky.

Zimmer frequently met with local officials in multiple counties to address access and boundary issues associated with public lands, and to discuss and develop potential partnerships. He has provided sound guidance on the regional Chronic Wasting Disease and turkey trapping efforts, as well as numerous regional habitat improvement projects.

“John was instrumental in the Purchase Region this past year, strategically handling numerous challenging issues while providing ‘lead by example’ direction to his local staff,” Robinson said. “He is also quick to assist the Wildlife Division director’s office when necessary, filling in as the acting regional coordinator for the Green River Region when that position was vacant, and coordinating regional workdays with his staff to assist with emergencies in other Regions.”

Game Management Foreman of the Year Award
Jarrod Arnold, Wildlife Management Foreman (Muhlenberg County), 16.5 years

Arnold received this peer award for leading a highly efficient team to manage Peabody Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in western Kentucky. He has excelled in the planning and implementation of numerous habitat and maintenance programs, all with minimal supervision and despite having less staffing.

Arnold has exhibited professionalism and many leadership qualities in directing and organizing special projects and purchasing, as well as achieving specific objectives for multiple department properties in the area and working with hunters and anglers in the area.

“While he professionally ensures the implementation of all daily activities, Jarrod greatly enhances these endeavors by imparting strong leadership skills and dedication to the resource and sportsmen and women,” Robinson said. “Jarrod has been able to develop valuable relationships with local vendors who expedite the maintenance and improvement of the area, and he also is instrumental in the biological oversight and planning for Peabody WMA.”

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Group Achievement Award

Pictured (left to right):Zack Couch (now Executive Director of Kentucky Nature Preserves), Wildlife Division Director Ben Robinson, Monte McGregor, John MacGregor, Trey Prather, Laura Burford, Michaela Rogers, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

• Laura Burford, State Wildlife Action Plan Program Coordinator (Scott County), 23 years
• Zack Couch, Non-game Program Coordinator (Franklin County), 19 years
• John MacGregor, Wildlife Biologist IV (Jessamine County), 32 years
• Monte McGregor, Fisheries Biologist IV (Anderson County), 22 years
• Trey Prather, KFWIS Program Coordinator (Woodford County), 2.5 years
• Michaela Rogers, Wildlife Biologist III (Fayette County), 6.5 years
• Kate Slankard, Wildlife Biologist IV (Anderson County), 16 years

One of three awards chosen by the Wildlife Division director, this group earned this award for exemplary performance for their tireless efforts in updating and modernizingKentucky’s State Wildlife Action Plan(SWAP).

Revised and published every 10 years per federal requirement, the SWAP outlines conservation activities focused on Kentucky’s Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN), which includes rare and endangered species, but also common species in decline. Completion of this plan qualifies Kentucky for federal funding opportunities that help in the recovery of these sensitive species.

“The team identified 527 SGCN species within Kentucky, and provided habitat associations, range, identified threats, and conservation goals and actions for each individual species, as well as identified KY’s core Conservation Opportunity Areas in which resource managers can focus conservation actions to best benefit these species,” Robinson said. “One of the most significant undertakings by the group was to create an easily accessible/searchable online component to this revision of the SWAP ensuring that information about each SGCN species is readily available to resource managers as well as the public.”

Rookie of the Year Award
Sarah Christian, Regional Wildlife Biologist (Graves County), 2.5 years

Pictured (left to right):Wildlife Division Director Ben Robinson, Sarah Christian, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

Given to a newer employee who exhibits enthusiasm and a go-getter attitude, Christian received this peer award for her ability to work independently as well as in a team to get agency objectives completed. An employee willing to do anything necessary to get the job done, she has coordinated and managed resources and volunteers, and jumped in to provide physical labor on site tasks.

Her work on leading efforts to test for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in the Purchase Region in 2023 proved particularly valuable to Kentucky Fish and Wildlife efforts to monitor for this very important issue. While she had prior experience with CWD through an interim position, this program was much more tasking.

“Sarah managed our CWD efforts like a veteran biologist,” Robinson said. “Sarah’s ability to develop and maintain relationships with sportsmen, landowners, and agency partners has been invaluable to the agency with our current CWD operations.”

Technician of the Year Award
Kash Crum, Wildlife Technician II (Johnson County), 2.5 years

Pictured (left to right):Wildlife Division Director Ben Robinson, Cash Krum, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

Nominated and chosen by peers, Crum received this award for his ability to think and act beyond the requirements of his job, bringing an unexpected amount of knowledge and experience to his position. He exhibits an all-around ability to anticipate wildlife management needs and acts to support wildlife and fisheries biologists in surveys and land improvement projects in the Northeast Wildlife Region.

He was recognized for his teamwork as well as his ability to work independently making significant contributions to habitat projects on multiple public land areas, and he has worked to build relationships with outdoor recreationists in the community and local law enforcement.

“Kash thinks like a biologist in terms of wildlife habitat management and has many of the skills of a wildlife management foreman,” Robinson said. “Kash shares new ideas almost weekly about habitat improvements on various WMAs in the region, and his technical agricultural experience and preparedness has vastly improved efficiency related to completing habitat projects on our public lands.”

Thinking Outside the Box Award
Jacob Stewart, Private Lands Program Coordinator (Montgomery County), 18 years

Pictured (left to right):Wildlife Division Director Ben Robinson, Jacob Stewart, and Commissioner Rich Storm.

Awarded to someone who develops new approaches, innovative ideas and creative solutions in their position, Stewart was chosen for this award for his efforts to revitalize the agency’s Private Lands Program (PLP) after being promoted to the role in 2021.

Stewart has used creative new ways to attract and retain programmatic staff, including working with local universities to develop targeted curriculum and refocusing the PLP to make the job more habitat-oriented. These changes are partially responsible for growing the program from as low as 5 biologists to as many as 17 biologists.

Also the agency’s Fire Management Officer, Stewart has been creative in developing private landowners’ knowledge and skills to directly manage wildlife habitat themselves by initiating Private Lands “Learn and Burn” events across the state. This gives landowners the opportunity to join Kentucky Fish and Wildlife staff on prescribed burns to better familiarize themselves with the practice.

“Jacob’s efforts to revitalize the Private Lands Program have thus far been very creative and dynamic, especially in 2023,” Robinson said. “Jacob worked determinedly to identify and negotiate a new approach of funding the PLP with our federal partners, reformatting the existing partnership to save significant agency funds annually.”​