Joe Robison has received the 2009 Outstanding Conservationist of the Year Award from Michigan State Chapter of National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF).

Robison, a wildlife biologist and 14-year employee with the Department of Natural Resources, works at the Pointe Mouillee State Game Area DNR Field Office in southeast Michigan, where he is involved with management activities for a wide variety of wildlife species.

"Joe has developed exceptional relationships with constituent groups. He actively works with stakeholders on wildlife habitat projects, wildlife surveys, and successfully communicates with people about wildlife regulations," said Russ Mason, chief of the DNR's Wildlife Division.

Robison was cited as a biologist who is very effective at his job and as a key employee who is heavily relied on for his knowledge and his insight.

"We believe that Joe Robison is committed to making a difference for wild turkeys, waterfowl and Michigan's natural resources. In the 1990s, Joe helped with the southern Michigan wild turkey restoration program by capturing wild turkeys and selecting release sites when he was a laborer at the Muskegon State Game Area. In recent times, Joe has coordinated the successful wild turkey restoration activities in southeast Michigan," said Steve Sharp, senior field representative for NWTF. The international organization is involved in such recognitions of key wildlife professionals in natural resources agencies and is dedicated to the conservation of wild turkeys and the preservation of hunting heritage.

"This is an especially important honor to bestow upon a wildlife professional because recipients are chosen for this award by NWTF members based on recommendations from their wildlife employee peers," Sharp said.

Robison was commended for his inclusive management style and his ability to work with people on a variety of activities. He is chair of the statewide citizens waterfowl advisory committee and also serves on other wildlife-related committees and workgroups. It was noted that he was an employee that always gives over 110 percent in the performance of his duties.

Mason said Robison exemplifies an employee that communicates well with constituents and strives to improve habitat for wildlife. He is a biologist who understands the DNR mission and works to fulfill that mission, Mason said.

"We are proud to have one of our employees recognized for his contributions by a major conservation group such as the National Wild Turkey Federation," Mason said. "This award reflects positively on the employee and it confirms that key organizations appreciate quality employees like Joe Robison that work for the DNR."

The award was presented to Robison at the Michigan State National Wild Turkey Federation Convention meeting recently in Big Rapids. His wife, Gina Robison, is featured with him in the photo above.