Press Release

Hartzog Named Conservation Enforcement Officer of the Year

January 26, 2012

Richard Hartzog has been named Alabama Conservation Enforcement Officer of the Year by the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (SEAFWA). Hartzog, an employee of the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF), currently serves as a Conservation Enforcement Officer in Bullock County. 

During his 38 years as a Conservation Enforcement Officer, Hartzog has served as an excellent example for co-workers with his enthusiastic and positive attitude. He is often the first to volunteer and the one who stays the longest on work details. Because of his strong worth ethic, Hartzog is highly respected by his fellow officers. 

Hartzog led his district last year by making 10 arrests for night hunting in January 2011. He made in excess of 40 arrests during the 2011 dove season. 

Officer Hartzog is very involved in his community and has been a volunteer firefighter for more than 30 years. In addition to teaching hunter education classes, Hartzog has taught hundreds of students participating in the Archery in the Schools program, and participates in many hunting and fishing events for children and the disabled. 

SEAFWA is an organization of agencies that have primary responsibility for management and protection of fish and wildlife resources in 15 states. 

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com. 

Photo: Officer Hartzog, with wife Hilda Fay, after recieving the SEAFWA award.

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