A southwestern Iowa man has been named the state’s Conservation Officer of the Year. Marc Roberg serves Union and Ringgold Counties. Southwest District Law Enforcement Supervisor Mark Sedlmayr nominated Roberg for the award.

"Currently, we have 84 conservation officers in the state of Iowa, so Marc had some pretty stiff competition for this award," Sedlmayr said. Roberg says he’s proud to have his name associated with past award winners.

"Some of my best friends who are officers have received the honor," Roberg said, "and I always kind of wanted to be like them. Now, to be recognized for some accomplishment is surprising and it’s quite an honor."

In nominating Roberg, Sedlmayr noted that Roberg uncovered ten separate illegal deer hunting cases and two turkey cases within the last year. Those cases carried fines totaling $4,076 in fines and $44,900 in damages.