EDGEFIELD, S.C. — For the fourth consecutive year, the National Wild Turkey Federation has joined the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Game Warden Graduation Ceremony to recognize and celebrate the newest class of wildlife officers — the frontline defenders of the state’s natural resources and hunting heritage.
After completing 30 weeks of intensive training, cadets were honored in a tradition that brings together family, friends and representatives from conservation organizations across the state. These groups attend to present awards, offer congratulations and express gratitude for the graduates’ commitment to conserving wildlife and enforcing conservation laws in the Golden State.
“The dedication of wildlife law enforcement officers plays a critical role in ensuring our mission continues on for future generations to partake,” said Krista Modlin, NWTF district biologist, who attended the ceremony on behalf of the NWTF. “The important work conducted by wildlife law enforcement officers aids in our mission to allow future generations to enjoy our hunting heritage, while also building tomorrow’s conservation advocates.”
As part of the ceremony, Modlin presented the 2025 Top Report Writer Award to graduate Daniel Rauch. This honor recognizes excellence in a skill that is often overlooked yet vital to successful wildlife law enforcement. Rauch received a handcrafted WoodHaven turkey call in recognition of his achievement.
“Report writing is a skill that is often underappreciated, yet extremely valuable,” Modlin said. “A well-written report can be the deciding factor in an investigation, leading to successful prosecutions and the removal of individuals whose actions threaten our mission to conserve wildlife. It’s a powerful tool in the conservation toolbox.”
The ceremony concluded with the badge-pinning tradition, where loved ones joined graduates on stage to place their new badges on their uniforms. This symbolic moment marked the official start of their careers as wildlife officers, sworn to protect California’s people, wildlife and wild places.
“The NWTF’s success depends on strong partnerships with organizations like the California Department of Fish and Wildlife,” Modlin added. “Showing up for events like this is a small but meaningful way to express our appreciation and support.”
About the National Wild Turkey Federation
Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 24 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The NWTF has also invested over $10 million into wild turkey research to guide the management of the wild turkey population and to ensure sustainable populations into perpetuity. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale through its Four Shared Values: clean and abundant water, healthy forests and wildlife habitat, resilient communities, and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues its work to provide Healthy Habitats. And Healthy Harvests. for future generations.
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