HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) recognized exemplary contributions to conservation and water safety during its quarterly business meeting on April 28, 2025. Several awards were presented to staff members for their exceptional service and dedication to protecting Pennsylvania’s aquatic resources and ensuring public safety.
Excellence in Law Enforcement
The Northeast Conservation Law Enforcement Chiefs Association Officer of the Year Award was presented to Waterways Conservation Officer (WCO) Chad Lauer from Tioga County in the Northcentral Region. Lauer’s accomplishments in 2024 included 46 days of boat patrols, 600 boardings, the investigation of 12 environmental incidents, and charges filed for timber theft on PFBC property. Additionally, Lauer actively contributed to public education in his district. He is a 2016 graduate of the PFBC’s H.R. Stackhouse School of Fishery Conservation and Watercraft Safety.
WCO Hunter Shoemaker received the Gerald L. Greiner Environmental Protection Award, given annually to a WCO exemplifying the protection and enhancement of aquatic resources. Representing Lycoming County in the Northcentral Region, Shoemaker handled 16 environmental incidents in 2024, most notably addressing significant pollution in a Class A wild trout stream. He is a 2022 graduate of the H.R. Stackhouse School.
The Top Gun Award was presented to WCO Kyle Robinson of Mifflin and northern Huntingdon counties in the Southcentral Region. This recognition highlights outstanding efforts in apprehending impaired boaters. Robinson completed 40 days of boat patrols, 850 boardings, and eight arrests for Boating Under the Influence in 2024. A three-time recipient of the Top Gun Award, Robinson graduated from the PFBC’s H.R. Stackhouse School in 2020.
Achievement in Water Rescue
The Heroes of Water Rescue Award was bestowed upon John Soderberg, a PFBC Water Rescue Instructor Trainer. Over several decades, Soderberg’s career has left a lasting impact, shaping water rescue initiatives statewide. He played a pivotal role in training emergency personnel under the PFBC Water Rescue Program and served with distinction in Pittsburgh River Rescue and the Pennsylvania Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team.
These awards underscore the PFBC’s commitment to conservation, safety, and public service, as it honors those whose dedication enhances the quality of life and natural resources in Pennsylvania.
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