Mark Ackerman and Joyce Atkinson, the dynamic conservation ambassadors, have left an indelible mark on numerous national wildlife refuges, showcasing their unparalleled dedication and unwavering commitment. Supporting the purposes of 11 national wildlife refuges, including Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge in Colorado, Desert National Wildlife Refuge Complex in Nevada, and Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Oregon, they have volunteered over 10,000 hours of their time in the past seven years. This extraordinary feat speaks volumes about their unwavering commitment and dedication to supporting refuge programs. Their exceptional contributions have earned them the prestigious Volunteer of the Year Award for the 2023 Wildlife Refuge Awards presented by the National Wildlife Refuge Association.
On His Watch, National Wildlife Refuge System Remains Safe For All To Explore
Don’t mess with the National Wildlife Refuge System (Refuge System). If you do, Federal Wildlife Officer Robert Peloquin of Las Vegas is there to set you straight, with education, awareness and dignity. For his 20 years of service at the Desert National Wildlife Refuge Complex (DNWRC), dedication to the Refuge System and his record of accomplishments, Robert was recently named the National Wildlife Refuge Association’s Employee of the Year.