Lord Named NWTF Alabama Law Enforcement Officer of the Year
OutdoorHub 06.29.11
The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) has named Conservation Enforcement Officer Keilan Lord of Centre, Ala. its 2011 Alabama Wildlife Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. Lord was recognized for the award during the Federation’s 35th Annual Convention and Sport Show Awards Banquet in Nashville in February. The NWTF is a national conservation organization dedicated to conserving wild turkey and increased access to public hunting land.
Since joining the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) in 2006, Lord has distinguished himself in the field as a conservation enforcement officer. For example, between January 2009 and September 2010 he made 179 arrests and issued 45 written warnings for wildlife violations – a heavy workload considering Lord is the only officer assigned to Cherokee County.
Lord, who stays busy working fishing activities at Weiss Lake, also makes working turkey hunting activities a priority. During the last two turkey hunting seasons Lord made eight turkey hunting arrests, six of which involved hunting with the aid of bait. All suspects in the arrests pleaded guilty or were found guilty in court.
“Officer Lord is committed to the conservation of wildlife in Alabama,” said Allan Andress, ADCNR Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Enforcement Chief. “His successful efforts are due to his ability to foster meaningful relationships with the public. Hunters and landowners trust him.”
In addition to his regular enforcement duties, Lord also teaches hunter education classes in his assigned county and volunteers to teach in other counties. Lord has been an active member of the Alabama National Guard since 2001 and was promoted to Sergeant in 2010. He also plays saxophone as a member of the 151st Army National Guard Band.
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com.
