Congratulations Officer Kreider !
I read that the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) named Bradley Kreider as Pennsylvania's wildlife law enforcement officer of the year. Brad is the Wildlife Conservation Officer (WCO) for Northampton County. He works for the PA Game Commission, the agency which manages mammals and birds in the Commonwealth.
Brad is a great officer. He is also a wonderful educator. Brad has done programs at our Annual Picnic, with mostly adults. He has also worked many times with our Day Camps and the kids. His ability to connect with every age group is remarkable. His enthusiasm for his job and wildlife is infectious. He is also respected by his peers. When I have talked to WCOs from other counties and mentioned that I know Brad, the reaction is always positive. "He really knows how to communicate," is a common response.
One year, Brad was scheduled to do a program for Day camp. He showed up that morning towing a big green culvert trap behind his truck. Brad had captured a 350 pound male bear near Blue Mountain the night before, as part of the bear research project. He was nice enough to bring it to Day Camp for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. After he tranquilized the bear, we pulled it out of the trap. Then Brad demonstrated how he collects information for the study (things like weight, a tooth for aging, etc.). The children were then allowed to touch the sleeping bear wearing rubber gloves (for the bear's protection). After the program, Brad released the bear back into the wild, where he had captured it. It is an experience that I will never forget. It had a big impact on the children also.
Being named Pennsylvania's Officer of the Year makes Brad eligible for the national title given by the NWTF at their annual convention later this month. In my opinion, WCOs don't receive this kind of recognition nearly enough. Brad is certainly deserving.
So, congratulations Officer Kreider. Thanks for your hard work. Your dedication. And your willingness to share your enthusiasm with others.
