The Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies recognized the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission as its commission of the year for 2015 at its meeting this week. The seven-member commission was appointed by Governor Matt Mead and confirmed by the Wyoming senate. Each member serves a single six-year term.
“We are honoring Wyoming’s commission this year because of its success in addressing some of the nation’s most challenging wildlife management issues,” said WAFWA executive secretary Larry Kruckenberg. “The commission has shown leadership on a myriad of issues - endangered species, mule deer management, creating public access for hunting and fishing, financial prudence and involving the public.”
The Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (WAFWA) represents 23 states and Canadian provinces. WAFWA is a strong advocate of the rights of states and provinces to manage fish and wildlife within their borders. The Association has been a key organization in promoting the principles of sound resource management and the building of partnerships at the regional, national and international levels in order to enhance wildlife conservation efforts and the protection of associated habitats in the public interest.
The seven members of the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission are: President - Charles Price from Daniel, Vice President - Carrie Little from Leiter, Mark Anselmi from Rock Springs, Pat Crank from Cheyenne, Keith Culver from Newcastle, Richard Klouda from Lander, and David Rael from Cowley.
“Not only do the members of the commission put in long hours to prepare for, travel to and participate in public meetings but they also volunteer with other partners in wildlife management projects. Our commission continues to show its commitment to Wyoming, its wildlife and its people. I congratulate each member for this award,” said Scott Talbott director of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
In recent years Wyoming’s commission has taken on complex policy related to gray wolves, grizzly bears, sage grouse and black-footed ferrets. The commission also made tough budget cuts when revenue declined and helped steer the department through its largest reductions in recent history. All of the commission work is done with significant public input.
For more information about the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission and to learn about attending its meetings visit this website: https://wgfd.wyo.gov/web2011/wgfd-1000338.aspx More information about WAFWA is available on its website.
