By North Dakota Wildlife Federation
Jan. 31, 2024 – Wahpeton Daily News
The North Dakota Wildlife Federation (NDWF) recognized several area sportsmen and women at their annual convention, held Jan. 6, 2024, in Fargo, North Dakota.
Rebecca “Becci” Truesdell, a member of the Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club in Wahpeton, was recognized as the “2024 Sportswoman of the Year.”
“Truesdell is the driving force behind the club’s annual fundraising event, the co-chair for the club’s annual youth fishing derby, and manages the club’s website,” NDWF President Kerry Whipp said. “Becci is committed to the success of the many Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club’s events and programs.”
Whipp also recognized outdoor writer Brad Dokken, Grand Forks as the “Conservation Communicator of the Year.” Dokken’s outdoor articles cover hunting and fishing adventures and topics in North Dakota, Minnesota, and Canada.
“Brad, writing for the Grand Forks Herald, has become something of an ‘endangered species’ as the only outdoor writer for a daily newspaper in the state,” Whipp said. “His writing brings the sights, smells, and sounds of his outdoor forays to his readers.”
Federation Executive Director John Bradley presented the Cass County Wildlife Club with the “2024 Affiliate Club of the Year” award.
The Cass County Club owns and maintains a trap range and rifle range that are open to the public. Club members teach hunter education classes, host youth hunting and fishing events, and support local “Archery in the Schools” programs.
“Cass County also has partnerships with the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Cass County Park Board to develop and maintain habitat and recreation facilities on local wildlife management and fishing areas,” Bradley said.
Rodney O’Clair, Jamestown, North Dakota, was given a “Special Recognition” award for his work as treasurer of the Federation, being a long-time board of directors member, and his work representing the North Dakota Hunter Education Association.