Agent Leith Konyndyk is an exemplary wildlife officer within the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. For his dedication in creating the next generation of hunters and sportsmen, as well as his accomplishments in upholding the state’s game laws, he earned national recognition from the National Wild Turkey Federation.
The NWTF named Agent Konyndyk the Wildlife Officer of the Year at the 40th annual NWTF Convention and Sport Show. RAM is the official convention sponsor. Konyndyk also won the NWTF’s Tennessee State Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award.
The NWTF determined this year’s award winners based on how their work strengthens the organization’s Save the Habitat. Save the Hunt. initiative. Konyndyk is devoted to preserving our hunting heritage, conducting education and outreach events for more than 3,000 participants. This year, his Kids Hunting for a Cure event saw participation of more than 1,000 individuals and raised $50,000 for St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Konyndyk also is the sole wildlife officer for Lincoln County, Tennessee, a county that normally ranks in the top five for deer harvests in the state. Still, he managed to conduct 606 hunter, fisherman and boater compliance inspections resulting in 129 citations and 16 arrests. Ninety-one citations and 12 arrests came from deer hunting violations, alone.
“Agent Konyndyk is an outstanding example of someone who recognizes the importance of conserving wildlife and habitat, and preserving our hunting heritage,” said George Thornton, NWTF CEO. “His dedication to upholding game laws and reaching potential hunters is impressive. We commend his service and are proud to honor him with this award.”
About Save the Habitat. Save the Hunt.
The NWTF Save the Habitat. Save the Hunt. initiative is a charge that mobilizes science, fundraising and devoted volunteers to give the NWTF more energy and purpose than ever. Through this national initiative, NWTF has committed to raising $1.2 billion to conserve or enhance more than 4 million acres of essential upland wildlife habitat, recruit 1.5 million hunters and open access to 500,000 acres for hunting, shooting and outdoor enjoyment. Without hunters, there will be no wildlife or habitat. The NWTF is determined to Save the Habitat. Save the Hunt.