NDA is pleased to announce that two NDA Board members were recently honored by the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) for outstanding leadership and lifetime achievements in wildlife conservation.
Chuck Sykes of Alabama received the Seth Gordon Award, which recognizes the lifetime achievements of natural resource administrators who have worked steadfastly and effectively for the best use of North American natural resources and the public trust therein. Sykes serves as Executive Director for the Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports (CAHSS) and previously led the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division at the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Bob Ziehmer, Senior Director of Conservation for Bass Pro Shops, received AFWA’s Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing an individual from a non-governmental organization who has supported AFWA and advanced both its agenda and conservation outcomes within their own institution. Prior to joining Bass Pro Shops, Bob served over 25 years with the Missouri Department of Conservation.
AFWA’s annual awards highlight the broad coalition of agency leaders, non-governmental and industry partners, and policy professionals who drive results for fish and wildlife conservation across North America. The Council’s honorees reflect a shared focus on science-based management, public engagement, and effective policy. Congratulations to Chuck Sykes and Bob Ziehmer on these well-deserved awards.