Snohomish resident Bob Heirman was announced as the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Volunteer of the year for 2009.

Bob has consistently volunteered time, labor, money, and extraordinary expertise for projects benefiting fish and wildlife, and fish and wildlife recreation for over 50 years. In fact, Bob has dedicated his life to the preservation and restoration of salmon.

He has worked closely as a volunteer and group leader on numerous WDFW projects that include lake and stream fish plants, handicapped fish docks construction and maintenance, fish access development and redevelopment, salmon derbies, legislative lobbying, habitat enhancement projects, public speaking, and educational programs in schools and throughout the fish community.

His accomplishments are numerous, including the preservation of the Bob Heirman Wildlife Park and Lords Hill Park. He has compiled and preserved fishing records and photos, historic information, and the rich natural history of Snohomish County. He has written several books and numerous articles promoting and informing the public about conservation issues that affect the environment.

Bob Heirmans commitment to the fishing resource has been legendary. In fact, most of those who know him tend to take him for granted as a pillar of the community who will always be there: and he will, because he is a legend in his own time.

As written and presented by: Phil Anderson, WDFW Director.