DATE: 2/1/05

CONTACT: Brian Callahan, (864) 878-1394

WRITER: Diane Palmer, (864) 656-4741

Clemson Extension agent wins wildlife award

PICKENS – Pickens County Extension Agent Brian Callahan received the South Carolina Wildlife Federation’s Wildlife Award Jan. 22 during the organization’s annual Conservation Awards Banquet at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia .

Callahan is also the state Master Wildlifer and Master Tree Farmer coordinator. More than 4,000 participants took the Master Wildlifer course the last time it was offered and more than 1,500 were in attendance during the last Master Tree Farmer school.

The S.C. Wildlife Federation was founded to facilitate effective habitat conservation and respect for outdoor traditions for current and future generations through statewide leadership, education, advocacy and partnerships.

Callahan has worked with S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) and many others to coordinate and deliver wildlife-related programs. He works with private landowners and land managers on a regular basis to develop wildlife management plans and options.

He serves as Pickens Forestry Landowners Association coordinator, volunteer instructor at the Abbeville 4-H Hunting and Wildlife Management Workshop and coordinator of 4-H 20 Lake Keowee Pontoon Classroom. He also serves on the 4-H Shooting Sports State Advisory Committee and the Jocasee Gorges Education Committee. He also writes monthly articles for the Upstate Outdoors magazine.

“Brian has the initiative, ability and creativeness to be successful in whatever endeavor he pursues,” said Skip Still, certified wildlife biologist for SCDNR. He nominated Callahan for the award. “We are very fortunate that Brian has chosen the option of helping the citizens of South Carolina protect and enhance the natural resources of this great state.”

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