ECO Bartoszewski Recognized for Outstanding Efforts by NYS Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced that ECO Steven Bartoszewski, located in Jefferson County, DEC Region 6, was awarded the New York State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) Officer of the Year Award for spearheading a youth turkey hunt in the Watertown area during this past April’s youth turkey hunting weekend. At the New York State Chapter of the NWTF’s annual dinner on Saturday, January 8, 2011, in Waterloo, he was presented a plaque and wild turkey print and recognition that he embodies the spirit of an ECO who loves his work, is an accomplished turkey hunter himself, is a great organizer, gets involved with the local organized sportsmen’s groups and inspires youth.
ECO Bartoszewski developed an idea for having a youth turkey hunt and ran with it from conception to implementation. He worked with fellow officers, landowners, the Federated Sportsmen’s Clubs of Jefferson County and The Watertown Sportsmen’s Club and the youths themselves for what was an amazingly successful first turkey hunt for the kids involved. Regional Law Enforcement Captain Stephen Pierson said “Everyone involved in this event was impressed with Bartoszewski’s abilities and desire to promote youth turkey hunting. He has had a positive impact with the youths involved, other officers, hunters and the public.”
For the 2010 youth turkey hunt, Bartoszewski enlisted the assistance of three other conservation officers who also are proficient turkey hunters as mentors for the young hunters. Through a raffle organized by the Federation, eight young hunters were selected to participate. They were instructed in the appropriate rules and regulations and allowed to target practice during the weekend prior to the youth turkey hunt. The youngsters also were introduced to host farmers, who graciously allowed them to hunt on their property. The following weekend, four lucky young hunters took turkeys.
Bartoszewski continues to promote youth hunting events and is currently busy with planning this year’s activities. This spring’s youth turkey hunt is April 23 and 24, 2011.
Watch the video: “Turkey Hunting”
Tupper Lake, NY – The Wild Center’s Wild Winter Weekends continue with activities from now until the end of March. There is a program guaranteed to keep everyone in the family entertained, enlightened and warm during these long winter months.
As always, there are hikes on free snowshoes, animal encounters, feature films and great food offerings. Wild Winter Weekends are free for members or with paid admission. 
