RFC Bart Hendrix Of Cherokee County Selected As Georgia's Wild Turkey Federation Officer Of The Year

11/14/08

SOCIAL CIRCLE, GEORGIA - The Georgia Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation recently honored Ranger First Class Bart Hendrix with the "Officer of the Year" award, announces the Georgia Department of Natural Resources' Wildlife Resources Division. RFC Hendrix, a conservation ranger assigned to Cherokee County, now also is eligible to receive the national award from the NWTF.

"RFC Hendrix is a true advocate and defender of the wild turkey resources in Georgia," says Wildlife Resources Division Chief Col. Terry West. "He not only has improved wild turkey habitat in his part of the state, but also has increased citizen awareness about the benefit of turkeys and the need for their protection."

During the 2008 turkey season, Hendrix demonstrated his dedication to bettering the sport of turkey hunting through education by logging more than 22 public outreach hours. He spends each meeting providing turkey hunting information and habitat improvement tips to groups in his area.

In addition to his outreach commitment, Hendrix also proved his dedication to the protection of Georgia's wild turkey resources by logging numerous hours patrolling the woods for violators. He made several quality cases on turkey poachers and confiscated two illegally taken turkeys. He also teamed up with rangers in surrounding counties for collaborative patrol efforts in Cherokee, Bartow and Fulton Counties.

Hendrix's love of hunting is apparent through his interactions with sportsmen. He constantly strives to help hunters and landowners make the most of their hunting areas, helping them work towards a better season. Through public interaction, he aims to promote better habitat and safe hunting practices for all turkey hunters.

For more information about the Georgia Chapter of the NWTF Officer of the Year Award, call (770) 918-6408. For more information on turkey hunting in Georgia, visit http://www.gohuntgeorgia.com .

Media Contact:
Jennifer N. Barnes, Sr. Public Relations and Information Specialist (770) 918-6795 or jennifer.barnes@gadnr.org