DNR Director Rebecca Humphries and the Natural Resources Commission today honored Conservation Officer Glenn Gutierrez, who was selected by Shikar-Safari Club International as its Michigan "Wildlife Enforcement Officer of the Year." This recognition carries with it the honor of being named Michigan’s Conservation Officer of the Year. The award was presented at the NRC’s regularly monthly meeting in Lansing.

Gutierrez began his career with the DNR Parks Division in 1990 and became a conservation officer in 1993. He has served his entire career in District 7, working in Clare, Gladwin and Ogemaw counties.

"Glenn’s performance as a field conservation officer is exemplary," said DNR Law Enforcement Division Chief Alan Marble. "His dedication to catching the genuine ‘bad guys’ is well-known and respected."

In addition to his day-to-day law enforcement responsibilities, Gutierrez has served his fellow officers through his many roles as a field training officer, firearms instructor and safety officer. Gutierrez also has received many commendations from many sources during his career. His courtesy and professionalism displayed during the recent audit of the deer and elk farming operations in his area were recognized by the Detroit Chapter of Safari Club International, a separate organization.

"CO Gutierrez is the 37th recipient of this prestigious award," Marble said. "Selecting one individual from the ranks is never an easy chore, but there is no more deserving recipient of this honor than Glenn."

Shikar-Safari Club International is dedicated to the protection, enhancement and preservation of wildlife, and places particular emphasis on endangered and threatened species through the advancement of enforcement of conservation laws and regulations.

The next regular meeting of the Natural Resources Commission is March 10 in East Lansing.