Winton receives national award for AEDC conservation management

  • Published
  • By Raquel March
  • AEDC/PA
ARNOLD AIR FORCE BASE, TENN. --  Wes Winton, a wildlife manager with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, received the 2016 National Military Fish and Wildlife Association Award for law enforcement March 17 in support of the Natural Resource Conservation Management on Department of Defense lands.

He was recognized during the NMFWA Workshop awards banquet in Pittsburgh, Pa.
Winton, who manages the AEDC Wildlife Management Area which includes 32,000 acres, was nominated by Shannon Allen, AEDC Natural Resource manager.
Winning the award was an unexpected honor for Winton.

"When Shannon Allen called me a few months ago to inform me of receiving the award, I was surprised that I had even been nominated and ecstatic that I had won it," Winton said. "I am honored and humbled to receive such a prestigious award. The award speaks highly of the long-standing relationship between Arnold AFB and TWRA, and [it] is evident that the partnership is working very well."

Allen stated that Winton's law enforcement management at AEDC included actions such as the investigation of walnut tree thefts for market resale; investigation of gate destruction and trespassing on federal property; and investigation of accidental electrocution of a federally protected bald eagle. Additionally, he provides officer support on Wood's Reservoir and Arnold roadways and other efforts as needed.
"Wes keeps everyone safer by supporting our Protective Services and protects Arnold AFB natural resources by educating constituents and enforcing game laws," Allen said.

Recreational visitors and hunters of deer, turkey, waterfowl and small game visit the AEDC Wildlife Management Area throughout the year. Winton's management of the area ensures visitors have an enjoyable experience, and he views his job as a "dream job."

"I have a job that gives me the opportunity to help take care of and work in God's creation every day," Winton said. "The duties of a Wildlife Manager are many and the tasks are varied which is the most enjoyable part of the job; I am doing something different each day. From law enforcement to habitat management work to administrative duties, there is a wide variety of tasks to be accomplished."

Winton has worked with TWRA for 15 years and eight years have been with Arnold. He, with his family, resides on the border of the base in a state owned property.

-AEDC-