The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has a new chief of fisheries. Alan Osterland will take over the role of overseeing this team, which works to provide diverse, high-quality fishing opportunities and to conserve all aquatic wildlife, reptiles, amphibians and their habitats for future generations.

Osterland is an established leader in the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. He is currently the Regional Wildlife Supervisor in Cody. Osterland has a wildlife management degree from the University of Wyoming, is a graduate of the National Association of Law Enforcement Chiefs Leadership Academy and a graduate of Game and Fish’s leadership program. 

“We had outstanding candidates for this position, which is critical to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. I am pleased that Alan was willing to step forward. He has the skills to lead all of those incredible people who work in the Fish Division and can further our efforts to engage with the public about its aquatic wildlife resource,” said Scott Talbott, director of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. 

The Fish Division works on conservation of native fish and other aquatic wildlife, runs the fish hatchery system, stocks over five million fish each year, improves aquatic habitat, administers the aquatic invasive species program, manages wild sportfish populations and supports additional fishing access. 

The previous chief of fisheries was Mark Fowden. Mark retired after 39 years of dedicated service to our wildlife resources and the citizens of Wyoming in January of this year and tragically passed in March.  

“I have some very large shoes to fill. It is an honor to take on this role and give back to Game and Fish with further service. I hope to build on all of the great work Mark Fowden did as chief and I look forward to the opportunity to serve the talented people who work in the Fish Division,” said Osterland. 

Osterland will start in his position later this spring.