Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards

Youth Conservationist of the Year
Brandon Bounds
  Brandon Bounds grew up with a passion for wildlife and the outdoors. He was raised helping his dad plant food plots and develop habitat for deer, turkey, and other wildlife on their family and local hunting club lands.  He has taken this lifelong connection to the outdoors and applied it with tremendous results.
  Described as a natural leader with a positive attitude, cooperative spirit, and great character, Brandon jumps at opportunities to share and serve when it comes to conservation related topics and activities. He has developed presentations on forestry and wildlife related topics and shared those with his 4-H Natural Resource Club at school, at local workshops for the general public, and even with the Tuscaloosa Kiwanis Club.  In addition, he has assisted the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries division by participating in a dove banding project to look at dove migration patterns.
  Brandon’s leadership and performance has been exceptionally apparent in his role with the Tuscaloosa County 4-H Forestry and Wildlife Judging Teams.  As Captain of the Wildlife Judging Team, Brandon led his team to win the State Wildlife Judging competition in 2010.  During that competition, Brandon placed 2nd overall in the individual category.  That team then competed in the national competition in New Mexico, finishing sixth in the nation.  Brandon had the third highest individual score in General Knowledge and Wildlife Identification as well as the fifth highest Overall Individual Score.
  As Captain of the 2011 Forestry Judging Team, Brandon led his team to a first place finish in the State Forestry Knowledge Bowl Championship.  In that competition, Brandon took first place individual honors in the forest insect and disease identification category.  And to top it all off, he plays a mean fiddle.
  For outstanding conservation accomplishments by a youth, we present the 2012 Youth Conservationist of the Year, Mr. Brandon Bounds.

Hunter Safety Instructor of the Year
Michael Gooch
  Since obtaining certification in 1999, Michael Gooch has become an excellent hunter safety instructor by combining his avid interest in firearms, his love of the outdoors, and his desire to teach the youth of Alabama.  In 2011 alone, Mike led or assisted with instruction in 13 classes over a four county area reaching over 400 youth and adults with the hunter safety message.  In addition to teaching these courses, Mike also regularly assists with activities like the National Archery in the Schools program and conservation expos.
  From 2000 – 2005, he served as the 4-H Shooting Sports instructor for Limestone County as well as the Vice President and Youth Coach for the North Alabama Shooting Sports Association.  From 2006 – 2009 he served as Treasurer for the Alabama Hunter Education Association and has also served as Special Counsel to the Board.
  As one of his peers stated, “I believe it is Mike’s love for hunter education which puts his instructor skills above most.  Mike is an instructor who genuinely cares about his community, the safety of the citizens of Alabama, and the future of hunting.  It is his passion to pass along his knowledge of gun safety and hunting to future generations of Alabamians.”
  For his outstanding commitment to Hunter Safety Education we present the 2012 Hunter Safety Instructor of the Year, Mr. Michael Gooch.

Judicial Conservationist of the Year
Judge Steven L. Whitmire, II
  Since becoming District Judge in 2002, Judge Whitmire has been a valuable asset to DeKalb County and the natural resources of our State.  He has made it clear to wildlife violators that appear in Court that natural resource protection and conservation is of great importance and vital to maintaining our rich hunting, angling, and outdoor heritage.
  As a landowner and outdoorsman, Judge Whitmire has a personal connection to the land and our wildlife resources. To him, dealing with conservation cases is more than just a job. He has continually shown his understanding and support of the work conservation officers perform to uphold the game, fish, and natural resource laws of our state.  When officers bring violators to his court, he is fair but firm and hands down penalties and sentences that provide for retribution while also serving as a deterrent to future violations.  Three cases alone in his court over the last two years have resulted in poachers facing fines of more than $13,000 and being stripped of their hunting licenses.
  In appreciation of his commitment to conservation from the bench, we present the 2010 Judicial Conservationist of the Year, Judge Steven L. Whitmire.

Legislative Conservationist of the Year
Senator Del Marsh and Representative Randy Davis
  Senator Del Marsh, President Pro-Tem of the Senate, and Representative Randy Davis are both avid outdoorsmen and conservationists.  As a result of their first-hand connection to and understanding of the outdoors, both have been strong allies for wildlife conservation and beneficial hunting and angling related legislation in their respective roles in the Alabama Legislature.  As legislative leaders they also know full well that a healthy and prosperous Alabama is underpinned by a healthy natural resource base – resources that must be managed with policies that strike the proper balance between use, management, and protection.
  In the 2012 Legislative Session both Senator Marsh and Representative Davis were strong advocates for the continued utilization of the Conservation Advisory Board to weigh decisions regarding seasons and bag limits and the utilization of wildlife professionals to weigh and recommend wildlife management policy in Alabama.
In the 2011 Legislative Session they were active as well.  Both Representative Davis and Senator Marsh provided critical actions in support of efforts to reauthorize funding for Forever Wild which secures public access lands for our citizens, wildlife management areas, and at the same time preserves a small portion of the incredible ecological diversity found in Alabama.
  Perhaps most important is the open door policy that they provide to the Alabama Wildlife Federation and our partners.  They are both willing to listen and take action on critical natural resource issues that we bring to their attention.
  In recognition of their legislative leadership on behalf of the wildlife and natural resources of our state, we present the 2012 Legislative Conservationist of the Year, Senator Del Marsh and Representative Randy Davis.

Conservation Enforcement Officer of the Year
Sergeant Donald Roach
  In his twenty one years as a conservation enforcement officer, Donald Roach has distinguished himself as a dedicated officer who applies the law with fairness and common sense. His co-workers describe him as loyal, dependable, and resourceful.
  Serving Dallas County, Sergeant Roach averages over 50 cases per year and is noted in particular for his efforts with serious violations.  His resourcefulness is evident in his successful use of surveillance aircraft at night to catch poachers.  On more than one occasion he has successfully coordinated ground troops and aerial surveillance to assist with night hunting violations.
  In addition to his Dallas County duties, Sergeant Roach also provides training to personnel throughout District 3.  From self-defense and firearms training to policy and procedures instruction, he is an invaluable asset to the entire department.  At the same time, he is extremely active in hunter safety education and has assisted with training more that 1000 hunter safety education students.
  In recognition of his service and dedication to conservation law enforcement, we present the 2012 Conservation Enforcement Officer of the Year, Sergeant Donald Roach.

Conservation Organization of the Year
Ducks Unlimited, Alabama State Committee
  For 75 years, Ducks Unlimited has been working for wetlands and waterfowl conservation throughout North America.  In Alabama, the Ducks Unlimited Alabama State Committee has been an integral part of the engine.
  As part of the Mississippi Flyway, wetlands in Alabama provide important wintering habitat for waterfowl produced in the Prairie Pothole and Great Lakes regions.  In that light, DU Alabama’s priority is restoring wetlands through partnership with federal and state agencies.
  To date, DU in Alabama has assisted with projects from as far south as the Mobile-Tensaw Delta Wildlife Management Area (WMA) to the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in north Alabama.  All in all, DU has assisted state and federal partners at 10 different project sites across Alabama totaling over 27,000 acres and representing an investment of more than 1.7 million dollars from DU supporters.  Project sites include Key Cave NWR, Swan Creek WMA, Wheeler NWR, Mud Creek WMA, Raccoon Creek WMA, Sipsey River Area, David K. Nelson WMA, Eufaula NWR, Mobile Delta WMA, and the Mobile-Tensaw WMA. 
  Whether it be wetlands acquisition or wetlands restoration, DU Alabama has and continues to be the leader in wetlands and waterfowl conservation.
  In recognition of their commitment to conservation in Alabama and in honor of their 75th Anniversary, we present the 2012 Conservation Organization of the Year, Ducks Unlimited.

Conservation Communicator of the Year
Direct Communications
  Direct Communications is a public relations firm that has been involved with positive messaging about Alabama’s outdoors for the better part of a decade.  In particular, they have developed a talent for highlighting the financial contribution that outdoor recreation and tourism in Alabama contributes to our economy.  In addition to promoting the Alabama Quail Trail and Alabama Black Belt Adventures initiatives, Direct Communications has been the leader in positive messaging about the Forever Wild Land Trust.
  In 2010, Direct Communications led a positive messaging campaign highlighting the great places that Forever Wild has secured, the multitude of ways that Alabama citizens can utilize and enjoy Forever Wild Lands, and the contribution that activities on Forever Wild lands makes to the annual $2.2 Billion outdoor recreation and tourism industry in Alabama.
In 2011, Direct Communications led the earned media and coalition communication campaign for Protect Forever Wild.  This legislative effort led to passage of a Constitutional Amendment that will allow the people of Alabama to vote this November to continue funding for the Forever Wild Land Trust.
  In 2012, Direct Communications continues to champion the earned media effort for Alabamians for Forever Wild, the group that is spearheading the Forever Wild public education campaign.  Through this campaign the people of Alabama will be informed of the tremendous track record of the Forever Wild Land Trust, its positive contribution to Alabama, and the opportunity for Alabama citizens to VOTE YES on November 6, 2012 to continue the Forever Wild Land Trust.
  For their professionalism and dedication to conveying highly positive messages about Alabama’s outdoors, we present the 2012 Conservation Communicator of the Year, Direct Communications.

Conservation Educator of the Year 
Amy Clark
  Amy Clark’s passion for conservation education stems from her time spent outdoors growing up in rural Alabama.  Teaching at an urban school in Decatur, Amy found that most of her students lacked the opportunity to experience nature and the outdoors first-hand.  That motivated her to work with her principal and fellow teachers to turn a small courtyard area into an outdoor classroom where the students could explore nature and observe wildlife in a natural habitat.
  In 2007, Amy partnered with community volunteers to build their first outdoor learning station – an aquatic habitat area where students study a wide variety of wildlife including fish, frogs and dragonflies.  She also established bird feeder stations, which led to an unexpected experience for the children to witness the food chain first-hand.  A kestrel set up its home near the school so that it could poach the bird feeder for its meals.  Amy brought in experts to talk with the students about “Birds of Alabama” including raptors such as the kestrel.  To increase her students’ exposure to conservation, she also brought in a forester to teach the children about forest management practices.
  Over the years, through Amy’s diligence and fundraising prowess she and her students have been available to add a variety of learning stations to their outdoor classroom.  They converted a concrete koi pond into a turtle habitat.  Raised bed gardens were constructed where students plant their own seeds and watch them grow.  A bird house with a remote camera was installed that allows the students to watch bluebirds raise their brood each year.
  In sum and substance, Amy has turned an area that used to be the home of the “portable trailer classroom” into an oasis for wildlife where students not only get to observe nature, they get to experience it first-hand.
  For her untiring efforts for conservation education, we present the 2012 Conservation Educator of the Year, Mrs. Amy Clark.

Air Conservationist of the Year
Anniston Army Depot
  Anniston Army Depot performs maintenance on combat vehicles, artillery, bridging systems, and small caliber weapons.  In 2009, leadership at the Depot began a study to find a way to reduce hazardous air pollutants associated with their maintenance activities.
  Paint stripping processes at the Depot have historically been the major contributor to hazardous air pollutants.  This process historically utilized an acid-based paint remover that contained approximately 75% methylene chloride, a hazardous air pollutant believed to contribute to health risks.  During the study, three products were identified as potential replacements that could reduce or eliminate methylene chloride pollutants.
  After further study, a replacement product was chosen that would completely eliminate methylene chloride releases.  At the same time, the new product and process yielded lower annual operation and maintenance costs.  As a result, Anniston Army Depot is investing three quarters of a million dollars to change out the four vats utilized in the paint stripping process.  Work on two vats was completed in 2011 and work on the final two vats is currently underway.  The end result will be an 80 ton per year reduction in hazardous air pollutants.
  In recognition of their exemplary efforts on behalf of Alabama’s air quality, we present the 2012 Air Conservationist of the Year, Anniston Army Depot.

Water Conservationist of the Year
Scott Bridge Company
  In April of 2011, the Tuscaloosa area was hit by a devastating tornado causing widespread destruction. Our governor, his staff, and the people of Alabama came together quickly to assist our fellow citizens. After those immediate needs were met, plans were then made to address a host of clean-up and restoration activities.
  Scott Bridge Company played a unique and exemplary role in the restoration of a historic train trestle over Hurricane Creek that was severely damaged during the storm.  The trestle, completed in 1913, was the oldest and longest hand riveted bridge in the south.  The challenge was how to remove the damaged material and reconstruct the bridge while protecting Hurricane Creek - a remarkable stream known for its scenic beauty and high water quality.  To top it off, the bridge was located in an area with extreme terrain.
  WATCO, the short line railroad company that owned the bridge, contacted Scott Bridge Company based on their reputation from emergency projects following hurricane Katrina.  From there, Scott Bridge representatives contacted local people to work with them on the project to carefully consider and plan for access to the creek, removal of the existing tangle of metal, and reconstruction of the bridge.  All while protecting the integrity of Hurricane Creek.
  Utilizing well planned construction roads and best management practices such as rip-rap, seeding, mulching, bio-filters, and silt booms, Scott Bridge began the project.  By January of 2012, the reconstructed bridge was again on-line and servicing train traffic – and with minimal disturbance to the stream.
  Friends of Hurricane Creek was actively engaged with the project from start to finish. They were so impressed that they chose to recognize Scott Bridge Company for their outstanding efforts to protect the creek during the project.  It is clear that Scott Bridge Company is dedicated to both work quality and natural resource protection - and believes that doing the right thing can be built into even complex construction projects.
  For their unique efforts and commitment to protect Alabama’s water resources, we present the 2012 Water Conservationist of the Year, Scott Bridge Company.

Soil Conservationist of the Year
Tim Scott
  Tim Scott joined the Cullman County Soil and Water Conservation District in 1999.  For the past 13 years, he has worked with landowners in Cullman County to implement beneficial soil and water conservation practices across the landscape.
  A farmer himself, Tim has organized and led programs related to everything from Organic Farming to Precision Agriculture to Irrigation.  In all of these activities, he promotes best management practices that conserve soil resources while also reducing the potential for negative impacts on water quality.  In fact, he serves as project manager for Section 319 demonstration projects that show how impaired streams can actually be improved.  He has also been instrumental in provided education and assistance to livestock owners to implement best management practices and strategies to reduce impacts associated with livestock operations.
  In addition to working with landowners, Tim utilizes his time and expertise to educate youth about soil and water conservation.  He is an annual presenter at the Cullman County Water Festival which shows K-6th graders how land use in the watershed can have positive and negative impacts based on the individual decisions that people make.  Tim also participates in the annual Forestry Awareness Now projects and Touring Farms for Kids.
  Tim has also been responsible for highly successful monitoring and best management practices implementation in the Duck River Watershed through monthly water quality sampling, annual biological sampling, watershed management planning, and one-on-one technical assistance and guidance to land users in the watershed.
  For his outstanding efforts to promote the proper use and protection of our soil and water resources, we present the 2012 Soil Conservationist of the Year, Mr. Tim Scott.

Forest Conservationist of the Year
Russell Lands
  Russell Lands began its timber business in 1916 when Benjamin Russell established the company to clear the forest from the area that would be flooded to form Lake Martin.  In addition, 25,000 acres of worn out farmland around Lake Martin were acquired and the planting of pine trees firmly established the timber legacy of Russell Lands. Over the years Russell Lands has continued its traditional timber growing model and still does today on a significant portion of its property.
  In recent years, as Russell Lands’ real estate business has grown, amenities to support that business have become increasingly important. Current Chairman and CEO, Ben Russell, viewed the block of property assembled by his grandfather as a precious resource that should be both utilized and preserved for future generations. With this in mind, Mr. Russell established Russell Forest” to make this unique forest resource available for the enjoyment of residents of Russell Lands On Lake Martin.  In addition to the traditional uses, the forest land would also provide home sites and recreational values.
  Russell Forest contains several thousand acres of natural and planted longleaf pine. An early supporter of native longleaf restoration, Russell Lands utilizes an active prescribed burning program to benefit the longleaf and the abundant wildlife found in Russell Forest. Clearing understory, thinning timber and regular prescribed burning along the travel corridors through Russell Lands’ property has served as an educational tool for forest management for multiple uses. Native flora and fauna abound in this actively managed environment.  Russell Forest also contains hiking, biking and equestrian trails that weave and wind for approximately 100 miles, providing almost unlimited choice for exercise and activity.
  It is clear that Russell Forest will strike the balance between the multiple elements of traditional forestry, wildlife management, recreation, and human amenities in a manner that presents and preserves the forest as a natural resource centerpiece. Russell Lands, through Russell Forest, will ensure that present and future generations of residents and visitors will experience these woodlands and the flora and fauna it supports, in a personal and rewarding manner.
  In recognition of their commitment to forest conservation, we present the 2012 Forest Conservationist of the Year, Russell Lands.

Wildlife Conservationist of the Year
Claude Jenkins
  In 1999, the Alabama Wildlife Federation had a simple idea – improve wildlife habitat and populations by providing Alabama landowners the opportunity to have a professional AWF wildlife biologist visit with them on their property and give them useful advice.  If they implemented the recommendations provided it would be good for wildlife and good for the landowner.  Before year’s end, AWF hired a biologist named Claude Jenkins and dubbed him “Land Stewardship Biologist.”
  Fast forward thirteen years.  Under the continuous leadership of Mr. Claude Jenkins, the AWF Land Stewardship Assistance Program has provided on-the-ground wildlife management assistance and recommendations to 1,000 landowners and more than 750,000 acres of land in Alabama.  Not only has he led a program that has provided benefit to landowners and wildlife in Alabama, he has perpetuated a reputation of both personal and organizational excellence in private lands assistance.  As a result of this exemplary history and performance, the Alabama Wildlife Federation has been the recipient of three significant grants from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for projects that were in need of an effective private lands delivery system.
  In 2008, AWF was awarded a three-year Longleaf Legacy grant, a joint project of Southern Company and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, to assist with Longleaf Ecosystem Restoration on private lands – an important habitat type for a diverse array of wildlife species in Alabama.  In 2010, AWF received a special grant to assist with Migratory Shorebird and Waterfowl habitat development on private lands.  This grant was awarded in conjunction with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundations Recovered Oil Funds for Wildlife project associated with the BP Oil Spill.  In 2011, AWF’s Longleaf Legacy grant was extended for an additional three years.  At the same time, AWF received an additional three year Power of Flight grant, a joint project of the Southern Company and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, to promote establishment of Native Warm Season Grass habitat to benefit quail and other early successional habitat dependant species. Combined, these awards total in excess of $600,000.
  The success of AWF’s Land Stewardship Assistance Program is the result of the high caliber person who leads this effort.  Known for his commitment to excellence, professional disposition, and effective one-on-one communication skills, Claude Jenkins has made a significant positive impact on the wildlife and wildlife habitats of our great state.
  For his dedication and commitment to excellence in wildlife conservation, we present the 2012 Wildlife Conservationist of the Year, Mr. Claude Jenkins.

Conservationist of the Year
Sam Upchurch
  Sam Upchurch has been connected to the land all his life. In 1996, Sam re-established the family’s original landholdings by purchasing a neighboring cattle operation along the Alabama River in west Autauga County.  Now known as Grey Rocks Ranch, he began major habitat renovations on the land with a particular emphasis on developing quail habitat.  Today, as a result of his proactive decisions and their resulting positive improvements for quail, over one hundred wild coveys reside on the property.  At the same time, species like white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, squirrel, rabbits, duck, and a host of other wildlife are flourishing on the property.  In 2005, Sam was recognized as Wildlife Conservationist of the Year for these efforts.
  But Sam did not stop there. He has continued to aggressively manage his land for wildlife and share the outcomes.  Today, in fact, Grey Rocks Ranch serves as a demonstration site for AWF’s Native Warm Season Grass project.
  Perhaps most importantly, Sam has been extremely active in the efforts to reauthorize Forever Wild funding.  As a result of his connection to the land and his understanding of the importance of a small portion of Alabama’s great landscape being available for public use and enjoyment, he was active in the 2011 legislative effort on Forever Wild funding.  Sam testified in every public hearing and maintained constant contact with his local legislators and key leaders.  As a result of the combined efforts of Sam and others, legislation was passed that will allow the people of Alabama to vote this November to continue funding for the Forever Wild Land Trust.
  Again, Sam did not stop there.  Immediately following the 2011 Legislative Session, Sam led the establishment of Alabamians for Forever Wild.  This 501c4 group, which Sam Chairs, is leading the campaign to educate the public to VOTE YES for Forever Wild on the November 6, 2012 ballot.
  Sam Upchurch has been tireless in the commitment of his time, talents, and resources to Alabama’s wildlife and outdoors.  We present the 2012 Conservationist of the Year, Mr. Sam Upchurch.