SOCIAL CIRCLE — The Georgia Department of Natural Resources' Wildlife Resources Division selected Cpl. Mike Binion of the Albany Law Enforcement office as the 2008 State Ranger of the Year. As runner-up, Ranger First Class Mitch Oliver of the Fort Valley office received the 2008 James R. Darnell Award.
"The state of Georgia is fortunate to have people such as Cpl. Binion and RFC Oliver who dedicate their lives to protecting our natural resources," WRD chief of law enforcement Col. Terry West said. "I commend both honorees for their dedication and contributions toward Georgia's conservation enforcement efforts."
As this year's recipient, Binion's work ethic and positive attitude inspires other officers who rely on him in difficult situations, West said.
This was Binion's sixth nomination for Ranger of the Year since joining the DNR in 1998. The Shikar-Safari Club International along with the DNR proudly recognized him as the 2008 winner. Binion also was recognized earlier this year when he received the Rocky Wainwright Award for his efforts in waterfowl conservation.
West also said Oliver is committed to educating the public on important conservation issues. He regularly leads educational sessions, often taking questions from the public after hours.
Oliver serves as a member of the DNR Critical Incident Reconstruction Team, and his work with Safe Kids Worldwide helps provide free life jackets for children in and around Columbus.
"The state of Georgia is fortunate to have people such as Cpl. Binion and RFC Oliver who dedicate their lives to protecting our natural resources," WRD chief of law enforcement Col. Terry West said. "I commend both honorees for their dedication and contributions toward Georgia's conservation enforcement efforts."
As this year's recipient, Binion's work ethic and positive attitude inspires other officers who rely on him in difficult situations, West said.
This was Binion's sixth nomination for Ranger of the Year since joining the DNR in 1998. The Shikar-Safari Club International along with the DNR proudly recognized him as the 2008 winner. Binion also was recognized earlier this year when he received the Rocky Wainwright Award for his efforts in waterfowl conservation.
West also said Oliver is committed to educating the public on important conservation issues. He regularly leads educational sessions, often taking questions from the public after hours.
Oliver serves as a member of the DNR Critical Incident Reconstruction Team, and his work with Safe Kids Worldwide helps provide free life jackets for children in and around Columbus.