Assemblymember Berg was joined by Senator Wesley Chesbro, Chair of the Senate Budget Committee and Senator Dede Alpert, who Chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee in commending Tom for his volunteerism and public service and his demonstrated desire and motivation to improve and protect California's fisheries.

Berg said, "It gives me great pleasure to honor Tom's many accomplishments on behalf of California's resources."

Also in attendance at the hearing were Secretary of Resources Mike Chrisman, Director of the Department of Fish and Game Ryan Broddrick, Deputy Regional Director of the Bureau of Reclamation John Davis, President of the Fish and Game Commission Jim Kellogg, and Vice President of the Fish and Game Commission Sam Schuchat.

Stokely, who has worked as a planner for Trinity County for the past 17 years, has played important roles in both Trinity River restoration efforts and state salmon and steelhead recovery efforts.

The surprise resolution honoring his efforts was given to him before his testimony. He received a standing ovation from the more than one hundred decision-makers, fisherman and stakeholders in the room.