Two Department of Natural Resources biologists will be honored by the Michigan State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation at its Jan. 16 annual convention and banquet in Big Rapids.

Nik Kalejs, the wildlife habitat biologist at the Muskegon State Game Area will receive the chapter's Conservationist of the Year Award. A DNR employee since 1980, Kalejs has been instrumental in creating a youth mentoring program and special youth hunt at the area as well helping wild turkey restoration in the area.

Mark Sargent, who oversees the DNR Wildlife Division's Private Lands Program in Lansing, will be honored with the Outstanding Land Steward (Wild Turkey Woodlands) Award, largely for the multiple habitat improvements he's made on his own property. Sargent has used his land as a demonstration area for diverse wildlife management practices.

"Both these individuals are prime examples of the dedication to natural resources we see in the employees of the Wildlife Division," said Wildlife Division Chief Russ Mason. "These are guys who live their work."

DNR Conservation Officer Zach Doss, stationed in Van Buren County, will be honored as Conservation Officer of the Year.

The Michigan State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation will hold its 40th Annual Convention at the Holiday Inn and Conference Center, 1005 Perry St., Big Rapids. For information, contact Tom Karsten at 616-891-6000 or tkarsten@nwtf.net.