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Hobkirk Honored as Wildlife Officer of the Year
Michigan Ag Connection - 03/22/2018

Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officer Robert Hobkirk, a 17-year veteran serving in Huron County, has been named Michigan's 2017 Wildlife Officer of the Year by Shikar-Safari Club International. Hobkirk was recognized at Thursday's regular meeting of the Michigan Natural Resources Commission in Grand Rapids. The award is presented to officers who display exemplary conduct and initiative while performing their duties.

"Bob Hobkirk is a credit to his uniform," said Gary Hagler, chief of the DNR Law Enforcement Division. "He has earned the respect of his peers and the citizens he serves. Whether it's taking on additional duties or sharing his expertise with the community, Bob demonstrates every day that being a conservation officer is more than just a job. He genuinely cares about the natural resources and families he's sworn to protect. He is most deserving of this award and we're proud to have him in our conservation officer ranks."

Hobkirk began his career in Mecosta County and has been serving the people of Huron County for nearly 15 years. Hagler credited Hobkirk with going beyond his assigned responsibilities and contributing to the Law Enforcement Division's standard of excellence by serving as an instructor in driving tactics, firearms and basic marine enforcement. He also provides leadership for the Division's enforcement efforts on Detroit's Belle Isle, working patrols and taking on extra shifts when necessary.

Hobkirk plays an instrumental role in the training and development of new conservation officers. As a field training officer, he is highly regarded as an outstanding example to probationary officers and often develops a working relationship with them that continues long after the field training process has concluded.

A two-time recipient of the DNR Law Enforcement Division's Lifesaving Award, Hobkirk also was selected as the Division's Waterfowl Officer of the Year in 2015.

Since being assigned to Huron County, Hobkirk has regularly participated in a local radio call-in show to discuss items of interest to the community, such as fishing and hunting regulations and outdoor-related activities. Hobkirk was nominated by his colleagues for the Shikar-Safari Club International award, demonstrating the respect he has earned among his peers.

Hobkirk is a native of Bad Axe and a graduate of Central Michigan University. He and his family live in Huron County.


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