Longtime Northeast DNR Warden Receives Haskell Noyes Conservation Warden Efficiency Award

CHILTON, Wis. — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced DNR Conservation Warden Mike Disher was awarded the Haskell Noyes Conservation Warden Efficiency Award.

The Haskell Noyes award is the highest honor bestowed to a state conservation warden. Recipients demonstrate an ability to lead a quality law enforcement conservation program that excels in a balance of enforcement, education and community involvement.

In addition, Disher received high marks for his investigative skills, community wardening record and supporting other law enforcement agencies.

Disher has served 19 years from the Chilton administrative station in Calumet County. He is responsible for the entire county and the east shore of Lake Winnebago. He is known for his upbeat personality, professionalism and dedication to integrity, community, teamwork and details.

Disher assumed the Chilton station after graduating from the law enforcement academy in 2002. Before being hired full-time, Disher served as a DNR law enforcement park ranger at Peninsula State Park and as a deputy warden for both the Wautoma and Oshkosh warden teams.

Disher said he reflects the pride and passion that DNR wardens statewide feel about their role in protecting Wisconsin’s precious natural resources and the public who enjoy them. He also credits his success to his current and past warden colleagues.

“The great people I’ve worked with have influenced me,” Disher said. “I’m fortunate that I’ve worked or trained with people who were awarded the Haskell Noyes Award. When you work with so many great people, you pick up all the great aspects of what to do and then apply it to your own station.”

Disher said the wardens in the field are the link to the community. “You get to interact daily with the public and I think that is the most critical role,” Disher said.

Capt. Ben Treml, who heads the northeast region where Disher serves, said Disher is the go-to partner to assist other wardens and community groups.

“Mike is a thorough, detailed warden who leaves no stone unturned and continues his commitment until the job is accomplished,” Treml said. “I am extremely proud of his accomplishment and the way Mike treats the people that he serves.”  

A virtual ceremony to honor Disher was held on Dec. 4.