For his work in conserving wildlife and preserving hunting heritage, Master Officer Forrest Orr has been named by the North Carolina chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation as the state’s 2017 Wildlife Officer of the Year.

“As an officer, his positive attitude and self-motivation to initiate outreach programs is an asset to the community as well as the Commission,” said Sgt. Justin Mathis. “He is a professional officer who is dedicated to the mission of conservation, and I can think of no one more deserving of this award.”

The award was presented by Richard Plattenberger, president of the state chapter of the NWTF, and Zac Morton, the state chapter’s director of development, at the Federation’s annual awards banquet on Jan. 14.

"Master Officer Forrest Orr embodies the essence of what the National Wild Turkey Federation is all about,” said Scott Martin, the Federation’s regional director. “He is a superior wildlife officer who also supports the NWTF and its “Save the Habitat, Save the Hunt” initiative. He is an active member of the L. A. Dixon Local NWTF Chapter and a vital cog in our recruiting and retaining ethical hunters. We are most thankful for officers like Forrest who are everyday trying to protect our wildlife resources and hunting heritage.”

“Our most sincere congratulations go out to Forrest and his family,” Martin added.