At the March 24 Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission meeting, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Executive Director Carter Smith recognized Texas Game Warden Ellis Powell as the National Wild Turkey Federation’s Texas Wildlife Officer of the Year.

Every year since 2000, the federation has recognized North American game wardens for enforcement activities related to wild turkeys. This marks the 16th year this award has been presented to a Texas game warden.

Powell graduated from the 50th Texas Game Warden Training Academy in June 2004. Upon graduation, he was assigned to Newton County, where he is currently stationed.

In his nearly 12 years in Newton County, which borders Sabine National Forest, Powell has developed strong relationships with the large hunting clubs bordering the forest. Because of Powell’s partnerships throughout the area, there have been hardly any game violations in the forest, which has one of the largest populations of Eastern turkey in the state. Additionally, Powell routinely assists these clubs with their management plan for both turkey and deer.

Powell is also active in his community, especially in activities involving youth participation in outdoor recreation. Powell consistently participates in numerous public programs throughout the year with local schools and civic organizations. He has also introduced many young adults to hunting and fishing through Operation Outdoor events held every year.