Florida Honors Outstanding Land Managers as 2024 Jim Stevenson Resource Managers of the Year

Celebrating Excellence in Conservation

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In a powerful reflection of commitment to preservation and innovation, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) have honored three land managers as the 2024 Jim Stevenson Resource Managers of the Year. This accolade recognizes individuals who exemplify leadership and public service, positioning Florida as a national model in natural resource management.

The recognized professionals hail from the DEP’s Florida Park Service, FDACS’ Florida Forest Service, and the FWC. Their dedicated efforts highlight how Florida’s resource managers leverage expertise and strategic innovation to foster healthy ecosystems, protect wildlife, and elevate conservation standards across the country.

Profiles of the 2024 Honorees

Patricia “Patty” Wilbur, Biological Scientist II, Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

With over 20 years dedicated to Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, Patricia “Patty” Wilbur has spearheaded transformative habitat restoration, fire management, and ecological protection strategies in northwest Florida.

• Upland Pine Restoration Leader: In 2018, she orchestrated one of the most ambitious upland pine restoration projects in the region, rejuvenating 1,005 acres of crucial flatwoods habitat for native wildlife.
• Prescribed Fire Management: As a certified burn manager since 2011, Wilbur has orchestrated 63 prescribed burns spanning nearly 6,000 acres, participating in a total of 198 burns across more than 21,000 acres and responding to seven wildfires.
• Holistic Ecological Stewardship: Wilbur’s expertise encompasses invasive species management and hydrological restoration, both crucial for sustaining Wakulla Springs’ long-term ecological integrity.

Charlie Pedersen, Biologist III, Waccasassa Forestry Center

A stalwart with the Florida Forest Service for 28 years, Charlie Pedersen’s impact resonates across multiple state forests, where he has adeptly managed diverse plant communities while advocating for endangered species.

• Red-Cockaded Woodpecker Recovery: Since joining the Waccasassa Forestry Center in 2004, Pedersen has doubled the breeding pairs of the red-cockaded woodpecker from about 30 to over 80, a breakthrough that recently led to its downlisting from federally endangered to threatened.
• Etoniah Rosemary Protection: His efforts helped restore the Etoniah rosemary, increasing its subpopulations from a solitary group to thriving clusters.
• Innovative Resource Management: Embracing cutting-edge technology, Pedersen recently obtained a drone pilot license, enhancing monitoring and planning capabilities for conservation efforts statewide.

Matthew Koenig, Fisheries and Wildlife Biologist III, FWC

As the lead area biologist for Chinsegut, Perry Oldenburg, and Janet Butterfield Brooks wildlife areas, Matthew Koenig exhibits an unwavering commitment to managing Florida’s diverse ecological tapestry.

• Habitat Enhancement: Koenig focuses on enriching upland pine forests, sandhills, and depression marshes, employing prescribed fire as a primary management tool to benefit critical species such as Bachman’s sparrows and bald eagles.
• Crisis Management: From orchestrating storm cleanup during the tumultuous 2024 hurricane season to safeguarding rare federally endangered plants, he adeptly navigates the complexities of managing triadic public lands.

Why It Matters

The recognition of these exemplary land managers underscores the vital role they play in maintaining Florida’s ecological health. By advancing conservation techniques and safeguarding biodiversity, they directly affect:

• Recreational Opportunities: Hunters, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts benefit from well-managed habitats that support wildlife populations.
• Local Economies: Healthy ecosystems bolster tourism and outdoor recreation, essential components of local economic stability.
• Community Resilience: Effective management practices contribute to a balance with urban development, ensuring access to natural spaces for education and recreation.

Field Insights: Pro-Tips for Outdoor Enthusiasts

• Visit State Parks: Engage with places like Wakulla Springs to appreciate firsthand the ecosystem restoration efforts in action.
• Participate in Volunteer Days: Join local conservation groups to lend a hand and learn more about habitat management and wildlife protection.
• Stay Informed on Local Wildlife: Following the updates from FWC can enhance your appreciation of Florida’s diverse wildlife and the ongoing conservation efforts.

In honor of James A. Stevenson, whose influential work in ecosystem management has shaped modern conservation in Florida, the Resource Manager of the Year Award serves as a beacon for excellence and innovation.

For more information about Florida’s environmental conservation efforts, visit FloridaDEP.gov.