The Michigan Ruffed Grouse Society and American Woodcock Society Habitat Committee recently honored Department of Natural Resources upland game bird specialist Al Stewart for his dedication to young forest wildlife conservation with an award at the annual Ruffed Grouse Society State Workshop.

The organization’s State Drummer Fund, the only program dedicated solely to ruffed grouse and American woodcock habitat enhancement, now has been named the Al Stewart Drummer Fund.

A portion of the proceeds from each Ruffed Grouse Society chapter event goes toward the Drummer Fund each year. In 2018, the Drummer Fund was leveraged to support over $450,000 in wildlife habitat improvement projects.

“This recognition is well deserved! Al Stewart is literally an institution, a biologist with a legendary and international reputation as a grouse and woodcock expert,” said DNR Wildlife Division Chief Russ Mason.

Stewart’s career has spanned over four decades. He has been the state’s upland game bird specialist for close to 20 years. His contributions to young forest wildlife are global, with milestones accomplished on a national and international level.

Stewart has coordinated the enhancement of upland game bird habitat, including young forests, with numerous grassroots-based conservation organizations. He also has coordinated research efforts, working groups and future management directions critical for young forest habitat. Stewart has been a champion for the Ruffed Grouse Society and numerous other conservation organizations throughout the state.

“RGS wanted to recognize the lifetime of hard work that Al has invested to ensure that the future of upland game bird and young forest habitat is available for the next generation of upland hunters,” RGS wildlife biologist Heather Shaw said. “Al has been a mentor to me throughout my career, and I am thrilled to continue to foster a strong partnership between the DNR and RGS.”

Scott Grush, regional director for the Ruffed Grouse Society, has touted Al as being “incredibly supportive of RGS and its mission while participating in numerous organizational activities and events throughout the year. His dedication to grouse and woodcock is unmatched.”