The Southwest Region congratulates Special Agent Jim Stinebaugh on his selection as a 2017 Recovery Champion for his leadership in recovery of the whooping crane. Special Agent Stinebaugh worked tirelessly to successfully complete two investigations of whooping crane shootings in Texas that led to convictions under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Endangered Species Act (ESA). His leadership in establishing waterfowl hunter outreach details around Aransas NWR has been critical in educating the public about the importance of conserving the species. His leadership, professionalism, and commitment to both law enforcement and public outreach of whooping crane conservation have fostered highly-successful partnerships with federal, state and local partners including U.S. Attorney’s Office, Department of Justice, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, International Crane Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, Whooping Crane Conservation Association and Audubon Texas.
2017 Regional Director's Conservation Award
