Dept. of Game, Fish and Parks
For Immediate Release: Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2001
For more information:  Emmett Keyser, 773-4607

JEFF MCENTEE NAMED 2001 WILDLIFE OFFICER OF THE YEAR

PIERRE – Jeff McEntee, Mitchell conservation officer for the Department of Game, Fish and Parks, was recently named the 2001 South Dakota Shikar-Safari Wildlife Officer of the Year.

"McEntee is very deserving of this prestigious award, and the department is proud to have selected him as the recipient in 2001," said Assistant Wildlife Director Emmett Keyser. "Conservation Officer McEntee has been on the staff just a bit over 10 years, and he has already made a notable mark in his work district."

McEntee was assigned to Mitchell, S.D., which also happens to be his hometown. While that is an uncommon privilege, it brings with it the challenges of often personally knowing the people with whom he is dealing in law enforcement situations. "This could compromise the law enforcement efforts of an agency if the officer did not have high ethical standards, as well as being understanding and fair," Keyser noted. "Jeff has handled this situation and duty station extremely well. In addition, he has pursued a strong conservation law enforcement program while developing a positive public relations program for the agency in his district."

McEntee is also very involved in the Wildlife Division’s law enforcement training program. "He has been a Defensive Tactics Instructor for several years and a Field Training Officer since 1999. Jeff’s reviews from those he trains are always outstanding. He is a great mentor, teacher and motivator. His ability to bring the best out of his students is admired and appreciated by those he touches," Keyser said.

Jeff was recognized as the Mitchell Law Enforcement Officer of the Year in 1997. He has also been a valued member of Mitchell’s Emergency Response Unit for several years. "On this unit, his ability to work as a leader and co-worker is vital in protecting the public and members of his team," Keyser said.

Finally, Keyser says, "Jeff’s positive outlook, his friendly demeanor and professional conduct have earned him great praise from those he serves in his local community. Jeff is one of those rare employees who is truly outstanding in every respect and is most deserving of this prestigious honor."

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