The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife’s Michele Butler is being recognized for her exemplary work as a wildlife officer. The Mississippi Flyaway Council is honoring Officer Butler with the Waterfowl Protection Officer of the Year award.
The Waterfowl Protection Officer of the Year award is presented to a law enforcement officer who exhibits exceptional dedication and service to protecting the Mississippi Flyway’s waterfowl populations. This award highlights officers who go above and beyond by protecting wetlands and waterfowl, educating waterfowlers, participating in waterfowl organizations, and promoting youth hunting activities.
Ohio Wildlife Officer Michele Butler is the Mississippi Flyway Council Waterfowl Protection Officer of the Year.
Erie County, where Officer Butler is assigned, sits along the Lake Erie shoreline and is one of the most heavily hunted waterfowl areas in Ohio. Officer Butler is a passionate waterfowl hunter and extremely dedicated to protecting Ohio’s wildlife. She works diligently to ensure hunters comply with regulations and educates the public about the importance of hunting and waterfowl.
Officer Butler is widely respected by her peers and the public and takes on additional roles outside her normal job duties. She is a founding member of the Women Officers of Wildlife program where female officers discuss challenges and provide insight to leadership. Officer Butler was recently appointed to the Division of Wildlife’s Honor Guard to represent the agency at ceremonies and events. She also participates in the Division of Wildlife’s Ride Along Program and serves as a health and fitness instructor.
The Mississippi Flyway is composed of 14 states and three Canadian provinces. The Mississippi Flyway Council was established in 1952 to coordinate the management of migratory game birds in the Mississippi Flyway and to promote those activities of its members that serve the long-term benefit to the resources and the flyway.
The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov (http://www.wildohio.gov) to find out more.
In 2024, join ODNR as we celebrate 75 years of protecting Ohio’s natural resources and providing outstanding and award-winning recreational opportunities.
