DNR announces 2024 Warden of the Year

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced that conservation warden Bradley Dahlquist was recognized as the Warden of the Year for 2024.

Dahlquist, a member of the Antigo Warden Team in the DNR’s Northeast Region, began his DNR warden career in 2008. He was presented the Haskell Noyes Warden of the Year Award in Antigo on July 12 at a banquet attended by current and retired wardens, family and friends as well as members of the Noyes family.

The Haskell Noyes Award, created 95 years ago by the late Milwaukee businessman who sought recognition for officers protecting the resources, is one of the highest honors bestowed to Wisconsin conservation wardens. Recipients demonstrate an ability to lead a quality law enforcement conservation program that balances enforcement, education and community involvement.

Casey Krueger, DNR chief conservation warden, said the prestigious annual honor goes to the warden whose public service is exemplary and efficient.

Capt. Ben Treml of the DNR Northeast Region, one of the individuals who nominated Dahlquist, said he is a humble leader with a contagious can-do attitude backed by a strong drive for public service.

Treml said Dahlquist is known “as a communityspirited warden who responds to calls any hour of the day and stands ready to help department colleagues and team with external partners.”

“Brad has been instrumental in serving the public in Forest and Langlade counties throughout his career,” Treml said. “He is the first to volunteer and take on extra duties and keeps current on ever-changing technology to support his strong performance in investigative and enforcement work in all areas.”

Area residents also count on hearing his updates and other news when he joins the monthly Breakfast Club Radio Show on 106 FM Antigo. His discussion topics are seasonal, numerous and always helpful.

“Brad treats people with dignity and respect, often getting a handshake at the end of the contact and changing people's impression of the department and the warden service,” said Dahlquist's direct supervisor, Lt. Jacob Cross, who also nominated him for this award.