Come fall, Cpl. Jason Roberson, a Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement ranger from Dawsonville, could be the nation's top boating officer.

He was recently named one of three finalists for the Butch Potts Boating Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award to be presented at the National Association of Boating Law Administrators annual conference later this year.

The recognition follows the February announcement that Roberson was the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division's 2014 Boating Officer of the Year for his work on Lake Lanier.

"We are very proud of Jason and the outstanding work he does at Lake Lanier," said Col. Eddie Henderson, director of DNR's law enforcement division. "His work ethic and track record speak for themselves."

In 2014 alone, Roberson, who has been with DNR for the last 14 years, conducted 15 search and rescue missions on Lake Lanier, including the recovery of two teens that drowned in a frozen Dawson County cove, where ice had to be broken up before search efforts could begin.

His supervisor Sgt. Mike Burgamy nominated Roberson for the state award.

"When it comes to ensuring the safety of Georgia's boating public, Jason is top-notch. He is a professional that exhibits fair and unbiased enforcement, education where applicable, compassion when needed and dedication always," he said.

Roberson has also had a very successful career enforcing boating under the influence laws and pursuing those who participated in illegal drug activity, according to officials with DNR.

DNR Commissioner Mark Williams called Roberson an "outstanding representative" for Georgia's DNR law enforcement division.

"I wish him the best at the national level," he said.