State conservation officers receive awards

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News Releases
State conservation officers receive awards
(Released April 5, 2010)


The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has named Zumbrota-based State Conservation Officer Kevin Prodzinski as its “Officer of the Year.”

“Conservation Officer Prodzinski represents the finest qualities found in the ranks of the DNR’s Division of Enforcement,” said Col. Jim Konrad, DNR Enforcement Division director. “This officer has maintained an exceptional level of dedication, commitment, excellence and professionalism over the past 13 years. This officer typifies the model for all conservation officers.”

Over his career, Prodzinski has served in nearly every field capacity the division offers, including background investigator, field training officer and waterfowl task force member. His work has been of the finest quality, earning him awards for Waterfowl Officer of the Year, Mississippi Flyway Officer of the Year, and an award for North Dakota Case of the Year. He has received a life-saving award for rescue work during a record-setting flood.

His drive for excellence in protecting Minnesota’s valuable natural resources is well documented, said Lt. Dean Olson, Prodzinski’s supervisor.

“His incredible law enforcement skills and outstanding observation abilities are tailor made for this profession,” Olson said. “He takes these skills on the road traveling where he is needed across the state, partnering with other officers to assure a strong future for our natural resources.”

Other honors include:

CO Tyler Quandt of Red Wing - Education Achievement Award. This award recognizes an officer based on overall career performance, with emphasis on involvement in the division’s education programs; support and involvement with volunteer instructors; and educational efforts through the media and special presentations.
CO Phil Seefeldt of Moorhead - Waterfowl Enforcement Achievement Award. The annual award is presented to a conservation officer dedicated to protecting Minnesota’s natural resources, serving the public and preserving our waterfowl heritage.
CO Jeff Humphrey of Cloquet - Willard Munger Wetland Achievement Award. The award is named after the long-time legislator who died in 1999, leaving a 43-year record of extraordinary environmental activism to the people of Minnesota.
CO Aaron Kahre of Minnetonka - Boat and Water Safety Achievement Award. The honor is based on demonstrated leadership abilities and outstanding achievements in boating safety education, Boating While Intoxicated (BWI) enforcement, and service to other law enforcement agencies.