Recognition of the 2026 Cohort of the Student Engagement Program

This year marked the 3rd Cohort of WAFWA’s Student Engagement Program. The primary goal of the Student Engagement Program (SEP) is to increase opportunities for professional engagement by embracing individuals with various lived experiences and perspectives, and by supporting students who have had to overcome barriers. SEP supports a variety of mentorship opportunities and focuses on using the WAFWA annual Summer Meeting as a place to enhance selected students’ professional growth. This allows ample opportunity for interaction and allows students to experience WAFWA and engage with a broad spectrum of conservation professionals and an expanded number of committees and events. This year’s cohort consisted of a delightful group of young brilliant professionals who are eager to contribute to the world of conservation.
Nicole Bartholomew, Madison Casey, Carina Frischauf, Raequel Picard, Krista Romero-Cardenas, Felice Yarbough, and Luisa Zamora Chavez.

Federal Conservation Partner of the Year Award

This year, we’re proud to recognize Jennifer Kaplan from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Jennifer Kaplan and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program have redefined collaborative conservation in Arizona through a “cooperation over regulation” philosophy that prioritizes long-term partnerships while delivering meaningful benefits for wildlife and working lands. By building trust among the Arizona Game and Fish Department, private ranchers, NGOs, and federal land managers, Jennifer has advanced landscape-scale conservation across Arizona’s complex mix of private, state, and federal lands. Her leadership has helped maintain critical migration corridors for pronghorn and mule deer in support of Secretarial Order 3362, while also improving habitat for grassland birds, pollinators, and riparian wildlife through native habitat restoration and enhanced water distribution. Notable efforts such as the Flying M Grassland Restoration Project and the Southeastern Arizona Fuels Reduction Project showcase her ability to unite diverse partners, funding sources, technical requirements, wildlife objectives, and wildfire mitigation goals into successful conservation outcomes. Through her dedication to bridging boundaries and fostering durable partnerships, Jennifer has strengthened landscape resilience across Arizona’s working lands and established a strategic, inclusive, and highly effective model for habitat restoration, making her exceptionally deserving of this recognition.

Outstanding Citizen Wildlife Contributor of the Year Award

Mark & Wendy Pratt. Mark and Wendy Pratt are this year’s recipients in recognition of their outstanding contributions to fish and wildlife conservation, habitat enhancement, and the advancement of outdoor recreation. They have dedicated their time, talent, and personal resources into this life-longs work. As multi-generation ranchers, they exemplify exceptional private land stewardship and demonstrate that productive ranching and strong wildlife conservation go hand in hand. Through Mark’s leadership in the Eastern Idaho Grazing Association, he pursued collaborative solutions to growing recreational pressures by working with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game and Idaho Parks and Recreation to enroll 27,000 acres of private land into the Access Yes! Program, ensuring continued public access for hunting and angling while protecting critical habitat for mule deer, elk, sage-grouse, Columbian sharp-tailed grouse, and numerous other species. Wendy played a pivotal role in Idaho’s landmark 10-year sage-grouse and grazing study, serving as a trusted bridge between researchers and ranchers and helping maintain both scientific rigor and practical application on working lands. Together, the Pratts have contributed thousands of volunteer hours and traveled extensively at their own expense to strengthen partnerships among landowners, scientists, agencies, and the sporting public, leaving a lasting legacy of conservation, collaboration, and stewardship across Idaho’s working landscapes.

Conservation Change Agent Award

Dr Dan Schill, Dr. Bruce McIntosh, and Liz Mamer are deserving recipients of the Conservation Change Agent Award for their extraordinary leadership in developing and advancing WAFWA’s groundbreaking YY Fish Program. Recognizing that brook trout invasions are one of the greatest threats to the long-term persistence of native cutthroat trout and that traditional management tools such as piscicides and electrofishing often proved insufficient they championed an innovative and elegant solution: the development and release of brook trout that produce only male offspring to gradually suppress invasive populations without disrupting entire aquatic ecosystems. With support from numerous WAFWA member states, Dan, Bruce, and Liz successfully navigated the scientific, regulatory, funding, and partnership challenges necessary to transform the Trojan YY concept into a fully operational conservation tool. Through their persistence in building and sustaining the YY Consortium, they created a powerful new approach to native fish conservation that has expanded beyond brook trout and cutthroat trout to influence research and management efforts around the world. It is rare for a team to introduce a truly novel and effective conservation tool, but their vision, dedication, and leadership have done exactly that, creating lasting benefits for native species conservation across North America and beyond.

Kelly Adams exemplifies the spirit of the Conservation Change Agent Award through her creativity, leadership, and dedication to advancing conservation in Oklahoma and beyond. Since joining the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation as an intern, she has consistently identified opportunities to improve conservation outreach, public engagement, and organizational effectiveness by transforming innovative ideas into impactful programs and initiatives. Kelly expanded access to the outdoors through efforts such as Oklahoma’s first Family Hunts, WMA Field Days, Birding Basics, and the statewide Bear Aware campaign. She helped connect new audiences with wildlife conservation and responsible outdoor recreation. She has also played a key role in shaping the agency’s future by contributing to its strategic plan, branding initiative, and R3 plan, while establishing the R3 Champion Award to recognize employee leadership in recruitment, retention, and reactivation efforts. Her influence extends beyond program development through her leadership in modernization, which includes securing and administering the region’s first outreach grant following Pittman-Robertson Modernization, by creating a model now being followed by other states. Widely recognized for her communications expertise, Kelly oversees one of the most successful social media programs among state wildlife agencies and has served as a vital connector between ODWC, its Foundation, and partner organizations. Her collaborative work has expanded conservation resources and community engagement across Oklahoma. Her contributions to launching the Oklahoma Fishing Trail helped drive a 23 percent increase in nonresident fishing license sales within six months. Through innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence, Kelly has made a lasting impact on conservation and public engagement in Oklahoma.

Commission of the Year Award

Wyoming Game and Fish Commission. The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission exemplifies the Department’s mission of “Conserving Wildlife, Serving People” through its dedication to science-based wildlife management and responsible stewardship of Wyoming’s natural resources. The Commission has been a strong advocate for mule deer conservation and has consistently supported the Department’s efforts to improve habitat and address population declines. Investments in the Mule Deer Initiative, invasive annual grass treatments, and the Mule Deer Conservation Strategy have expanded conservation efforts across the state while helping secure additional funding from external partners. The Commission has also demonstrated a commitment to protecting Wyoming’s fisheries and aquatic resources through approval of a new cool and warm water fish hatchery that will enhance future fishing opportunities and reduce the risk of aquatic invasive species associated with importing fish from outside the state. Equally important is the Commission’s dedication to public involvement, the Commissioners regularly attend meetings throughout Wyoming, listen to concerns from hunters, anglers, landowners, and other stakeholders, and carefully consider public input when making management decisions. Their willingness to engage directly with citizens helps ensure wildlife management remains transparent and responsive to local needs. Through its leadership, guidance, and strategic investments, the Commission has contributed to meaningful and measurable benefits for Wyoming’s wildlife and the people who depend on these resources.

Outstanding WAFWA Contributor of the Year Award

Christina Malessa of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department is a deserving recipient of the Outstanding WAFWA Contributor Award for her exceptional leadership and service as Wyoming’s Federal Aid Coordinator. Christina played a critical role in administering the $5 million America the Beautiful Challenge Grant awarded to Wyoming in partnership with WAFWA, an effort that distributed funding to support wildlife connectivity and migration initiatives across 17 western states. She worked closely with WAFWA staff to ensure the grant application was accurate, compliance requirements were met, and all necessary documentation was submitted properly. Beyond her responsibilities in Wyoming, Christina supported grant administration across WAFWA member states and helped build a stronger community of practice among Federal Aid Coordinators by sharing technical expertise, administrative efficiencies, and effective management strategies. Throughout the process, she was consistently responsive, patient, and generous with her time, providing valuable guidance on compliance, invoicing, and reporting requirements. Her professionalism, collaborative approach, and commitment to helping others strengthened partnerships across agencies and jurisdictions while contributing to meaningful conservation outcomes throughout the West. Through her efforts, Christina has made a lasting impact on wildlife conservation that serves far beyond Wyoming.

As Deputy Attorney General, Kathleen Trever has provided exceptional legal and policy support to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game since 2007, serving alongside four directors, nine deputy directors, and numerous fisheries, wildlife, and enforcement leaders who quickly came to rely on her deep institutional knowledge and ability to navigate complex legal issues. Her influence extends far beyond Idaho, where she has been a key partner in implementing Columbia River Basin salmon fisheries under the federal U.S. v. Oregon litigation framework and a valued contributor to regional efforts addressing grizzly bear conservation and management. Kathleen has played a central role in Idaho’s longstanding effort to return grizzly bear management to state authority, helping develop and advance strategies involving litigation, administrative petitions, and legislative initiatives. She is also a trusted advisor to biologists, wildlife managers, and interagency teams. She plays a critical role in bringing clarity, practical insight, and sound judgment to discussions involving carnivore conservation, salmon recovery, and fishing opportunities. Throughout her career, Kathleen has helped shape wildlife and natural resource policies across the West by balancing conservation objectives with state management responsibilities. Kathleen has earned the respect of many colleagues and partners throughout the Western region.

President’s Award

Julie Carter has been a driving force in advancing fisheries conservation partnerships across WAFWA and the broader fisheries community. Her leadership has been instrumental in strengthening collaboration, supporting key programs, and helping move important conservation efforts from concept to action.
Julie played a critical role in facilitating the transfer of the Desert Fish Habitat Partnership to WAFWA and continues to serve on the Steering Committees for both the Desert Fish Habitat Partnership and the Western Native Trout Initiative. She also helped lead the recruitment and hiring of new coordinators for both partnerships and represents WAFWA on the National Fish Habitat Partnership Board of Directors.
In addition, Julie was instrumental in creating WAFWA’s Fish Habitat Partnership Working Group, which provides an important forum for strengthening collaboration, building relationships, aligning priorities, and improving the effectiveness of WAFWA’s fish habitat partnerships.
Her service extends well beyond WAFWA. Julie serves as President of the American Fisheries Society Fish Management Section, is a member of the Fish Management Chemicals Committee, co-teaches the annual AFS Rotenone Training Course, chairs AFWA’s Subcommittee on Water, and serves on the AFS Special Committee on Fish Names. She has also been actively involved in AFWA and AFS efforts to maintain the use of rotenone as an important fish management tool.
Through her work with WAFWA, AFWA, AFS, the National Fish Habitat Partnership, and the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Julie has made lasting contributions to fisheries conservation, partnership development, and aquatic resource management. Her leadership, commitment, and service make her highly deserving of the 2026 President’s Award.

Pogue-Elms Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award

This award memorializes Idaho Fish and Game officers Bill Pogue and Conley Elms, who were killed in January 1981 while trying to arrest a poacher in a remote region of southwestern Idaho.
Honorees for this award exemplify the lifelong commitment that game wardens and conservation officers across the country dedicate to their work.

Lieutenant Specialist Logan Garber of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife has distinguished himself as an exceptional leader in wildlife law enforcement through his work in Ports Enforcement at some of North America’s busiest ports of entry. His investigative expertise has been instrumental in uncovering large-scale wildlife trafficking operations and complex unlawful importation cases, including investigations involving hundreds of wildlife violations. Logan combines innovative investigative techniques with a strong commitment to education and compliance, helping improve accountability while strengthening relationships with industry partners and regulatory agencies. His technical knowledge, collaborative approach, and dedication to officer safety have made him a trusted resource both within the Department and among partner organizations nationwide. Through Lieutenant Garber’s leadership Ports Enforcement has become more effective and influential, contributing to stronger wildlife protection efforts and enhanced enforcement capabilities across California. In addition to his investigative accomplishments, Logan continually serves others through training, mentorship, emergency response, and specialized support roles. His professionalism, humility, and an unwavering commitment to conservation law enforcement made him deserving to receive the 2026 Pogue-Elms Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award.

Professional of the Year Award

Dave Zafft has dedicated 35 years to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, building a distinguished career defined by leadership, innovation, mentorship, and service. Beginning as a seasonal technician, he advanced through numerous fisheries and management positions before ultimately serving as Deputy Chief of Fisheries. Throughout his career, Dave has earned widespread respect for his scientific expertise, thoughtful leadership, and ability to address complex conservation challenges. His work helped advance fisheries research and monitoring practices, strengthen native species conservation efforts, and expand opportunities for future wildlife professionals through mentorship and collaborative research. Dave has played an important role in regional conservation initiatives, contributing his expertise to interstate partnerships and working groups focused on the conservation of aquatic species and habitats throughout the West. His commitment to science and professional service is further reflected in decades of involvement with the American Fisheries Society, where he has contributed to research publications, fisheries standards, and organizational leadership. Dave’s dedication to conservation, mentorship, and collaboration, has left a lasting impact on Wyoming’s fisheries resources and the broader conservation community.

WAFWA’s Lifetime Achievement Award

The final and most prestigious award of the evening. WAFWA’s Lifetime Achievement Award is named for Phillip W. Schneider of Oregon, whose legendary commitment to fish and wildlife resources spanned more than 40 years in a career in which he served as director of the state’s game and fish agency, and later as a commissioner and commissioner emeritus of Oregon’s Fish and Wildlife Commission. This award recognizes an individual who has dedicated his or her entire career to conservation of fish and wildlife resources in the West.

Greg Power exemplifies a lifetime of dedication to fisheries conservation through more than 40 years of service with the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. Rising through every level of the Fisheries Division to become Fisheries Chief, he guided fisheries management with a science-based, practical approach that balanced ecological sustainability with high-quality recreational fishing opportunities while keeping regulations simple and accessible for the public. Throughout his career, Power advanced numerous conservation initiatives and programs, including fisheries monitoring, habitat enhancement, stocking programs, and the expansion of public fishing waters in North Dakota from 186 in 1990 to more than 420 today. He also contributed to major efforts such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Master Manual, the Bureau of Reclamation’s Garrison Diversion Project, and the creation of North Dakota’s Aquatic Nuisance Species program. Strong partnerships with federal hatcheries helped create new fishing opportunities for anglers across the state. As a leader and mentor, Power fostered a culture of scientific rigor, collaboration, and public service, helping shape the next generation of fisheries professionals. He was also known for his accessibility and commitment to public engagement, carefully considering public input and ensuring fisheries issues were thoughtfully addressed. Equally important is Power’s forward-looking perspective on fisheries management. Greg recognizes the evolving challenges facing aquatic resources, including changing environmental conditions, increasing public demand, invasive species, and the need for adaptive management. He consistently encourages innovation and long-term planning within North Dakota’s fisheries program.