Washington D.C. (February 18, 2026)- The Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies (Association) proudly shares the news that Ron Regan, Executive Director of the Association, was recognized as the National Wild Turkey Federation’s (NWTF) 2026 C.B. McLeod Award recipient for his dedication to wild turkey conservation. Regan was honored at the NWTF’s 50th Annual Convention and Sport Show.
“Ron’s distinguished career in conserving our nations natural resources are defined with incredible achievements,” said Paul Johansen, Chief of the Wildlife Resources Section of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and President of the Association. “We are deeply grateful for his incredible contributions to our nation’s conservation success story.”
The C.B. McLeod Award, named after NWTF National Board member C.B. McLeod, who was a pillar in building the foundation of the NWTF, recognizes an outstanding NWTF volunteer who has dedicated his or her life to wildlife conservation and hunting heritage.
“It would be nothing short of an understatement to express my humble gratitude for this national recognition from a conservation giant,” Regan said. “I began my career as a wildlife biologist in 1979, working with wild turkeys as a seasonal technician, using relatively new radio telemetry technology, to assess the nesting fidelity of hens and to assess potential hunter disturbance in Vermont. Those were magical days and my career, now entering its 46th year, has been full of magic as well. My passion and joy in conservation and serving the hunting community has been grounded in part by the incredibly rich contributions and the professional friendships with countless NWTF volunteers and staff across the country.”
“I have known Ron for more than two decades, and his passion for wild turkey and wildlife conservation never ceases to impress me,” NWTF co-CEO Kurt Dyroff said. “It’s evident to everyone who knows him how passionate he is about the wild turkey, and the NWTF is honored to recognize his efforts, which started almost 50 years ago. We are proud of all Ron has accomplished and are happy to award him with this year’s C.B. McLeod Award.”
The Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies represents North America’s fish and wildlife agencies to advance sound, science based management and conservation of fish and wildlife and their habitats in the public interest. The Association represents its state agency members on Capitol Hill and before the Administration to advance favorable fish and wildlife conservation policy and funding and works to ensure that all entities work collaboratively on the most important issues. The Association also provides member agencies with coordination services on cross-cutting as well as species-based programs that range from birds, fish habitat and energy development to climate change, wildlife action plans, conservation education, leadership training and international relations. Working together, the Association’s member agencies are ensuring that North American fish and wildlife management has a clear and collective voice.
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