"Rick has displayed an extraordinary level of professionalism and expertise in the field of conservation law enforcement throughout his 16 year career," said Major Thomas Santaguida of the Maine Warden Service, "These qualities remain a model for both veteran and new game wardens to follow."

Rick is assigned to the Poland area in Division A. According to Santaguida, he was selected since he balances a high complaint district with pro-active conservation law enforcement that focuses on both the apprehension of intentional fish and wildlife violators along with community outreach. He also is member of the Dive Team and is a Field Training Officer. He has been involved in countless recoveries that provide closure to families in crisis. Warden Stone has also been able to offer compassionate support to the families as well. As a Field Training Officer, Warden Stone is dedicated to providing essential field training and on the job knowledge to the new wardens, said Santaguida.

Stone also was recently honored by the National Wild Turkey Federation, in the spring of 2000, as the Maine Wildlife Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. This was not only due to his extraordinary efforts in pursuing intentional turkey violators but also due to his fairness, professionalism, community involvement, public relations and focused fish and wildlife law enforcement. He also was recognized by Operation Game Thief due to the high percentage of Operation Game Thief investigations that he works on that result in an apprehension.

The following wardens received Meritorious Service Awards for conduct above the ordinary course of duty, in which a warden because of their initiative courage and diligence places themselves in danger while performing an unusual task: Dave Chabot of Livermore, Michael W. Joy of South Berwick, Chief Pilot Charlie Later of Augusta, and Tim Spahr of Kennebunk.

Warden Sergeant Roger Guay of Greenville and his canine Reba received the Conservation Law enforcement Canine Case of the Year award, and Warden Dan Scott of Hampden and his canine Baker received the Search and Rescue Canine Case of the Year Award.

These game wardens received Exemplary Service Awards for rendering outstanding service that deserves special attention: R. Wade Carter of Machias, Michael L. Eaton of Garland, Sergeant Terry Hunter of Ashland, Lt. Michael Marshall of Ashland, John MacDonald of Pownal, David R. Milligan of Ashland, Investigator Albert St. Saviour (two separate awards), and Jeff Spencer of Ashland.

Sergeant Brian Gray of Presque Isle received the Distinguished Supervisor's Award for demonstrating superior knowledge and leadership in supervisory law enforcement and by doing so has gained the respect of fellow officers, department employees and other agencies. Arthur "Pete" Downing of the Maine State Police Crime Lab received the Colonel's Award for providing distinguished service to the Maine Warden Service for his assistance with the warden service's photographic needs. Warden Neal Wykes of Naples was honored as the Maine Boating Officer of the Year by the National Association of Boating Law Administrators. Charlie Davis of Shirley received the 2001 legendary Game Warden Award.