Department of the Interior Announces Appointments to Hunting and Shooting Sports Conservation and Access Council

WASHINGTON, DC - The Department of the Interior today announced the council members for the recently reestablished Hunting and Shooting Sports Conservation and Access Council. The federal advisory council provides recommendations to the federal government through the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture on wildlife and habitat conservation, hunting and shooting sports, partnerships, and public access to hunting and shooting opportunities.

"Hunters and shooting sports enthusiasts have a long history of supporting wildlife conservation and responsible stewardship of our lands and waters," said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. "This Council brings their experience directly to the table as we work to expand access, strengthen conservation and ensure America's hunting and outdoor traditions continue for generations to come."

"Americans have a long and storied history tied to supporting our nation's beautiful outdoors. By hearing directly from the hunters and sportsmen who spend their time in nature, we can better direct federal resources and policies to ensure responsible stewardship of our nation's forests," said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. "These incredible men and women who have agreed to serve on the council will serve as valuable resource as we work to Make America Beautiful Again."

Council members include:

• Mr. Taylor L. Schmitz (Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation), representing the interests of wildlife and habitat conservation/management organizations.

• Mr. John L. Devney IV (Delta Waterfowl), representing the interests of waterfowl hunting organizations.

• Mr. Lawrence G. Keane (National Shooting Sports Foundation), representing the interests of firearms and ammunition industry.

• Mr. Christopher DeWitt (USA Shooting Team Foundation; National Rifle Association), representing shooting sports interests.

• Ms. Rebecca K. Jones (Dallas Safari Club), representing the interests of big game hunting organizations.

• Mr. Gregory J. Sheehan (Mule Deer Foundation), representing the interests of big game hunting organizations.

• Mr. Robert K. Weaver (Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation), representing the interests of wildlife and habitat conservation/ management organizations.

• Mr. Ward M. French III (USA Shooting), representing shooting sports interests.

• Mr. Donald J. Williams (Pennsylvania Governor's Advisory Council on Hunting, Fishing, and Conservation), representing wildlife-associated recreation interests.

• Mr. Christopher J. Tymeson (Safari Club International), representing the interests of U.S. hunters actively engaged in domestic and/or international hunting conservation.

Alternate council members include:

• Mr. John A. Allred (Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation), representing the interests of tourism, outfitter, and/or guide businesses related to hunting and/or wildlife conservation.

• Mr. Jason R. Burckhalter (National Wild Turkey Federation), representing the interests of game bird hunting organizations.

• Mr. John S. Commerford (NRA Institute for Legislative Action), representing the interests of firearms or ammunition manufacturing industry.

• Mr. Corey D. Mason (Wild Sheep Foundation), representing the interests of U.S. hunters actively engaged in domestic and/or international hunting conservation.

• Mr. Charles F. Sykes (Council to Advance Hunting & the Shooting Sports), representing shooting sports interests.

• Mr. Mark E. Moore (Safari Club International - Music City Chapter), representing the interests of big game hunting organizations.

"Hunters and the shooting sports community are important partners in conserving wildlife and healthy habitat," said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Brian Nesvik. "This Council gives us practical, on-the-ground expertise to help improve access, strengthen partnerships and make conservation work better for wildlife and the people who enjoy the outdoors."

The Hunting and Shooting Sports Conservation and Access Council was reestablished by the Secretary Burgum earlier this year. The Council replaces the former Hunting and Wildlife Conservation Council and advises the federal government on policies related to wildlife and habitat conservation, hunting and shooting sports, partnerships, and public access.

For more information about the Council, visit FWS.gov.

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