CODY-The Wyoming Game and Fish Department's Cody Region welcomes Adam Stephens as the new terrestrial habitat biologist for the Big Horn Basin. Stephens steps into this vital role following the retirement of Jerry Altermatt, who dedicated 33 years of service to the department.

Stephens will spearhead critical habitat enhancement projects benefiting wildlife across the Big Horn Basin. His responsibilities include assessing needs, proposing and planning habitat projects, securing funding, managing on-the-ground initiatives throughout the region and continuing habitat restoration work through the translocation of beavers. 

Stephens began his professional career as a rangeland management specialist with the Bureau of Land Management. He previously worked in Nevada and Utah, and most recently in Cody, bringing extensive experience to his new role.

“I am excited for the opportunity to contribute to the enhancement of Wyoming's wildlife habitat and be a part of the Game and Fish team,” Stephens said. “I've always been passionate about enhancing and restoring riparian and upland vegetation to benefit valuable wildlife habitats. Having lived and worked in the Big Horn Basin with the BLM for the past nine years, I feel fortunate to also have been a part of numerous working relationships and partnerships with a variety of stakeholders in the region, which I am eager to continue.”

Stephens earned a bachelor's degree in Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management from the University of Wyoming in 2009. Outside of work, Stephens enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, valuing the sense of connection to nature these adventures provide.

“I look forward to working alongside our dedicated partners and stakeholders, and contributing to wildlife habitat enhancement efforts in the region,” Stephens said.