The Midwest Torch Award has been passed on to another well-respected individual in the wildland fire profession. On March 10, 2011, Leopold Wetland Management District (WMD) Career Seasonal Range Technician Ben Halverson was recognized as the recipient of the 4th Annual Midwest Region Torch Award during the Midwest Region Awards of Excellence.
Halverson is committed and dedicated to District and the wider U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Service) Fire Management Program and follows in the footsteps of past honorees, Chris Mursu of Sherburne NWR, Mike Belsky of Necedah NWR and Erik Acker of Port Louisa NWR.
Always willing to make the extra effort to get tasks accomplished ahead of schedule, Halverson, maintains a safe work environment and trains his team with safety being a top priority.
His experience, knowledge and expertise in equipment maintenance annually saves Station time and money. When maintenance issues occur, Halverson consistently upgrades equipment as needed and coordinates the purchase of new fire equipment to keep the Station fire-ready and fully operational. Each year Halverson fills a vital niche in fire readiness and equipment winterization, making sure equipment is ready for fire activities and properly winterized for cold-weather storage.
