NMDGF Employees Receive 2024 National Awards
Department herpetologist Leland Pierce and big game program manager Nicole Tatman. Courtesy/
Department OHV program manager Desi Ortiz, second from left. Courtesy/
NMDGF News:
SANTA FE — The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) has announced that two of its employees recently received prestigious national awards in their respective fields.
Leland Pierce, the Department's herpetologist, received the Distinguished Service Award for 2024 from The Wildlife Society (TWS), while Desi Ortiz, the Department's Off-Highway Vehicle Program Manager, was named the OHV Program Manager of the Year from the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC).
"We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Leland and Desi for their well-deserved awards and look forward to their continued contributions to wildlife conservation and responsible recreation in New Mexico," Department director Mike Sloane said. "Their work helps set the standard for hard-working Department staffers throughout the state."
The award given to Pierce recognizes "individuals who have dedicated their careers to advancing the mission of TWS and exemplify a commitment to serving the organization," according to a release from The Wildlife Society. Pierce was also lauded for his mentorship of students and early-career professionals, as well as his efforts to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in wildlife management.
Pierce's Department colleague, big game program director Nicole Tatman, highlighted Pierce's exceptional contributions.
"Leland's leadership and longevity in his service to TWS are invaluable in guiding newcomers to board positions," Tatman said. "His enthusiasm for planning and participating in events that connect wildlife biologists is unmatched. To say Leland is 'always there' to support all levels of TWS is an understatement."
Ortiz was recognized for his significant contributions to responsible off-highway vehicle recreation at the annual NOHVCC conference last month in Minneapolis. Roger Pattison, president of the New Mexico Off-Highway Vehicle Alliance (NMOHVA), said Ortiz's eagerness to work together with various organizations has greatly helped improve the OHV landscape in New Mexico.
"Desi and his coworkers frequently attend the NOHVCC conferences to enhance their understanding of OHV recreation and its environmental impacts," Pattison said. "Desi has a unique ability to see the big picture in projects, fostering collaboration to maximize limited grant funding for larger initiatives. His communication and partnership with organizations like the NMOHVA lead to successful project outcomes. We want to give him special recognition for his stellar work and collaborative spirit."
