DNR News** Archived Article - please check for current information. **

SCDNR distributes division, agency Employee of the Year awards June 21, 2017

Once a year, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) names an exceptional employee from each division and an overall employee as Employee of the Year. Winners are nominated by people within their divisions and are chosen by division and agency leaders. This year, the Wildlife & Freshwater Fisheries Division winner and overall SCDNR Employee of the Year is Region 4 Wildlife Coordinator Dean Harrigal.

Harrigal began his career with SCDNR as a small game biologist, and that eventually led to him becoming the project leader for the Bear Island/Donnelley complex. Harrigal later became the Region 4 wildlife coordinator while retaining the role of statewide waterfowl project leader. He oversees 60 staff members, has been proactive in coordinating wildlife research and played an instrumental role in getting red-cockaded woodpeckers introduced into the ACE Basin. Harrigal has served as the agency's wood duck box coordinator for many years and, thanks to his efforts, thousands of boxes have been distributed to landowners across the state.

Many hunters and nonconsumptive users have enjoyed activities at areas managed by Harrigal. He has shared advice with landowners and has given numerous presentations to organizations statewide.

Harrigal has been involved with the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, the ACE Basin Project, the ACE Basin Task Force, the SCDNR Migratory Bird Committee, the Atlantic Flyway Technical Section, the SCDNR Migratory Bird Committee, the S.C. Duck Stamp Committee, the S.C. Wildlife Federation, and the Spring Island Trust.

Harrigal's leadership has positively affected many, and his work with SCDNR will ensure the conservation of wildlife and habitats for years to come.

The other division winners are:

Congratulations to this year's winners, and many thanks to everyone within SCDNR for hard work, fun times, and wildlife and habitat conservation for years to come!

DNR Media Contacts

Area Personnel Number
Coastal, Midlands David Lucas 843-610-0096
Marine Erin Weeks 843-953-9845
Upstate, Midlands Greg Lucas 864-380-5201

After Hours Radio Room - 803-955-4000

More News