The Florida Guides Association honored Gil McRae, the director of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, with the Capt. Phil Chapman Conservation Award at the Commission meeting in Orlando on July 11.
The award is presented to those who display a passionate commitment to the conservation of Florida’s marine fisheries.
For 15 years McRae has lead FWRI, which provides the scientific foundation for the management of Florida’s fish and wildlife resources. He oversees more than 30 FWRI offices across the state, which encompass programs such as the impacts of red tides, freshwater flows and levels, the research that guides the conservation and management actions for many of Florida’s important and unique species, as well as data collection for all of Florida’s saltwater commercial and recreational fisheries.
“We truly appreciate Gil’s expertise and leadership. Our scientists and researchers are the guiding force behind what we do,” said FWC Chairman Brian Yablonski.
McRae received a Bachelor of Science degree in aquatic ecology from the University of Michigan and a Master of Science degree in fisheries science with a minor in statistics from the University of Minnesota. He has worked for the FWC since 1995 and has been the director of FWRI since 2002.
“I know I speak for many when I say it has been a privilege to have Gil at the top tier of FWC’s leadership. Gil’s dedication to his profession, his work ethic and his stellar career with FWRI make him an example to be followed, and personifies the essence of the Capt. Phil Chapman Award,” said Capt. Pat Kelley, Florida Guides Association president.
Florida Guides Association
Fishing association honors 2 FWC officers
The Florida Guides Association on July 11 in Orlando honored two officers of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for their conservation efforts.
Capt. Pat Kelly, Florida Guides Association president, presented FWC officers Peter “Sean” Gaudion and Michael Bibeau of Hillsborough County with the “Trained Eyes Coastwatchers” Officer of the Year award.
Officer Bibeau has been an FWC officer for seven years. His patience and dedication set him apart and help him stop those that want to take advantage of Florida’s valuable natural resources and those boating dangerously.
“He is a true ambassador for the FWC and represents all law enforcement officers positively,” said Lt. Thomas Van Trees, Bibeau’s supervisor. “He continues his excellence in resource protection and public safety by sharing his knowledge with other officers.”
Additionally, Bibeau participated in multiple search-and-rescues this year and was nominated for a lifesaving award.
Officer Gaudion joined the FWC in 2013 and stands out for his teamwork and drive to succeed in resource protection and public safety. He frequently networks with other officers and community members to organize efforts to stop major violations.
“Officer Gaudion truly cares about making a positive impact on the citizens and resources of Florida,” said Lt. William Holcomb, his supervisor. “He maintains a positive attitude that inspires and motivates others.”
His extra work on the FWC’s Special Operations Group led him to respond to two hurricanes last season for multiple days at a time.
