Gary Caulk named SCI Conservation Officer of the Year

Gary Caulk Jr., a second generation wildlife officer with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, has been named the Conservation Officer of the Year by the Safari Club International Foundation. He will accept the award in ceremonies held May 6 in Arlington, Virginia, during the annual meeting of Safari Club International.

“You have been a true champion for conservation through policing wildlife protection laws that are in the best interest of wildlife and wildlife management. We appreciate your efforts,” said Joseph H. Hosmer, president of the Safari Club International Foundation in a letter announcing the selection. “This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made significant work achievements on behalf of sportsmen and sportswomen. Decorated officers are recognized each year for their contributions to the protection of habitat and species alike throughout the year. Congratulations!”

Safari Club International Foundation promotes science–based conservation through wildlife research, capacity building in governments, youth and teacher education, and humanitarian programs that show the importance of the hunting community in society. Since 2000, the Safari Club International Foundation has provided $47 million to conservation, wildlife education, and humanitarian programs around the world.

Some 200 wildlife officers work to enforce and educate North Carolina fish and game laws, which apply to all lands, public or private, throughout the state.

“This award recognizes someone who goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure game laws are followed and those who commit offenses are brought to justice, and Master Officer Gary Caulk certainly meets the criteria,” said Colonel Dale Caveny, chief of the Division of Law Enforcement, N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. “He is an outstanding reflection of the profession and this agency.”
Caulk, stationed in Moore County, followed in his father’s footsteps to become a wildlife officer. Growing up, he watched Gary Caulk Sr. during the course of his career and decided early on to do the same.

Gary Caulk Sr. started as a wildlife officer in 1975 and retired after 30 years with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission.

“Growing up, I saw how happy he was, doing what he did and that made an impression on me,” Caulk said. “He was the one who got me into hunting and fishing. And I saw the problems with poachers, which really rubbed me the wrong way, and made me want to help out, the same way he did.”

Gary Caulk Jr. became a wildlife officer in 2000 and got to serve five years in the same ranks, although different location, as his father.

“Looking at the work of Safari Club International and Safari Club International Foundation, I’m excited about their many programs, and I’m appreciative of them helping all of us to give back through education and enforcement,” Caulk said. “Receiving this award, I thank them but I owe a lot to a lot of different people. My dad for getting me started, my training and support of fellow officers, so I will have to accept it on their behalf.”