Texas Game Warden Timothy Walker has earned the distinguished Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (SEAFWA) Officer of the Year award, a testament to his exceptional dedication and contributions to conservation law enforcement. The accolade was officially conferred during the Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD) Commission meeting held in January.

Commencing his career with TPWD as a member of the 47th Texas Game Warden Training Academy Class, Walker's commitment and exemplary service have consistently set him apart. Graduating in 2001, he has been a steadfast guardian of the communities in Van Zandt and Angelina Counties.

With a myriad of roles and certifications under his belt, Walker serves as a certified master peace officer and assumes the role of a physical training coordinator. His involvement in simunitions training, where he acts as a role player, aids in preparing fellow wardens for high-stress, reality-based use-of-force situations in the field.

Walker is also an integral part of the Law Enforcement Division's Forensic Reconstruction and Mapping (STORM) team, showcasing his versatility. As a STORM team member, he utilizes cutting-edge technology, including 3D video reconstruction software, to reconstruct complex crime scenes and boating collisions. His expertise significantly contributes to completing investigations and providing closure to victims' families.

Over his illustrious 23-year career, Walker's dedication to conservation law enforcement has resulted in numerous felony arrests, surpassing expectations set by his peers. Notable achievements in the 2023 fiscal year include apprehending a poacher who illegally harvested a 150-inch white-tailed deer after a year-long investigation, aiding in the apprehension and prosecution of an individual illegally taking a 13-foot alligator, and arresting a group of waterfowl hunters for hunting over bait after a five-year investigation. Walker's commitment extends to extensive patrolling, issuing 248 citations, and conducting 14 public programs throughout the year, covering a distance of 37,814 miles.

Col. Chad Jones, TPWD Law Enforcement Director, expressed his appreciation, stating, "Game Warden Timothy Walker is an asset to the agency and the state of Texas. We are pleased that Timothy has received this recognition and are proud of his diligent work in protecting our state’s natural resources and the example he sets for fellow wardens."

In addition to the SEAFWA Officer of the Year award, Walker has previously been honored with a Director's Life Saving Award and a Director's Citation for his teamwork and rescues during flooding incidents on the Trinity River and Sabine River.

This prestigious award solidifies Walker's standing as a stalwart defender of Texas' natural resources and reinforces TPWD's commitment to recognizing excellence in conservation law enforcement. Walker's achievements serve as an inspiration and a testament to the unwavering dedication of Texas Game Wardens in safeguarding the state's diverse and precious ecosystems.