2020 Wildlife Officer of the Year
Officer Mario Bertolami has received the Fish and Wildlife Officer of the Year Award.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission Officer Mario Bertolami works at four state parks: Tomoka State Park, Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park, Bulow Creek State Park and Addison Blockhouse Historic State Park. These parks present a challenge as they encompass 78 cultural sites, 7,500 acres, 11 miles of hiking trails, 100 campsites, and yearly special events such as bike weeks, speed weeks and spring break.
Officer Bertolami does not focus on just one area of these parks or just on wildlife, but is aware of all facets of the parks, including remote gates, wildlife, exotic animal removal, fire lines, trails and visitor protection. Officer Bertolami has taken the time to be familiar with the locations of historic ruins and cultural sites and to learn why they are significant and need protection.
Officer Bertolami takes time to identify and report safety concerns in outlying areas and works with park staff to monitor and resolve them. Safety concerns sometimes include downed trees on the trail, compromised gates or damaged outlying facilities.
The presence of Officer Bertolami increases the positive public view of FWC and of the Florida Park Service. Interactions with park staff and park visitors are always informative, helpful, insightful and respectful. Officer Mario Bertolami's awareness of park protection needs also instills a safety culture with park staff as they conduct daily operations.
Park staff often approach Officer Bertolami for input on special events and to report wildlife violation activities with the confidence that he listens and investigates in a very timely manner. Officer Bertolami has greatly increased the communication and positive relationship between the park staff and park managers.
The Fish and Wildlife Officer of the Year is awarded annually to the officer with a never-ending dedication to their profession and genuine commitment to the agency and the public they serve.