WVDNR District 1 biologist Ryan Leedom receives prestigious award for contributions to wild turkey research
SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) today announced that wildlife resources specialist Ryan Leedom was recently honored by the state chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation with its Making Tracks Wildlife Manager of the Year Award.
“Congratulations to Ryan Leedom for receiving this award,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “Ryan has a passion for wildlife, a can-do work ethic and a willingness to assist the agency and his peers wherever he is needed.”
Leedom manages Dents Run and Underwood wildlife management areas in WVDNR District 1. In addition to managing two WMAs, which include two lakes and a shooting range, Leedom is a contributor to several research projects. Over the past few years, he has led turkey trapping efforts in Marion County and parts of Monongalia County, as part of the statewide turkey research project led by the WVDNR and West Virginia University.
In addition to his contributions to turkey research, Leedom has also assisted with the WVDNR’s deer research project in District 2 and the American woodcock project in Districts 1 and 3. He has also helped capture mallards as part of another research project and assisted in capturing Elk for relocation to West Virginia as part of the WVDNR’s elk restoration project.
When he isn’t trapping wildlife or maintaining his areas, Leedom assists with various office duties, including answering the phones, making purchases and providing general support. Additionally, Ryan recently volunteered to become a certified official scorer for the Boone & Crockett and the Pope and Young Club.
To learn more about the WVDNR’s wildlife management areas, wildlife research and conservation, visit WVdnr.gov.