The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has announced that Sgt. Stephen Apodaca has been named the 2024 Shikar Safari Officer of the Year. This award is given annually to one conservation officer from each U.S. state and Canadian province, honoring exceptional service in wildlife law enforcement, conservation, and public outreach.
Sgt. Apodaca has been a conservation officer since February 14, 2015, and is the 56th recipient from New Mexico to receive this award since it began in 1968. He is among only ten current department officers to have received this honor.
"Sgt. Apodaca's outstanding work as an officer, leader and mentor makes him an excellent recipient of this prestigious award," said Col. Tim Cimbal.
Throughout his career, Sgt. Apodaca has worked in the Las Vegas Supervisory District and currently oversees four officers in the Pecos, Las Vegas, and Mora areas, including Game Management Units 42, 43, 45, 46, and 47.
Apart from his field duties, Sgt. Apodaca instructs Chapter 17 law at recruit school and is a graduate of several specialized training programs. His expertise in trapping has helped resolve numerous wildlife conflicts.
"Sgt. Apodaca embodies the work ethic, determination, knowledge and leadership all officers should strive for," Capt. Ty Jackson said. "He’s built a model district where officers thrive — and his commitment to leading from the front is unmatched."
The Shikar Safari Club International has been presenting this award annually since its inception in 1968 to recognize dedicated wildlife officers across the nation.
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