The Association Applauds Confirmation of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director

The Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies enthusiastically commends the Senate for confirming the nomination of Martha Williams, who will serve as Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service). On February 17, 2022, the Senate confirmed the former Director of the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, by voice vote.

“We thank the Senate and President Biden for ensuring the Service will continue to have strong, collaborative leadership,” said Tony Wasley, Director of the Nevada Department of Wildlife and President of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.  “Ms. Williams’ deep understanding of cooperative management and commitment to science-based conservation, most recently exemplified during her tenure with the Service, make her an ideal choice to lead the federal agency most critical to our natural resources. As a former State Director, Ms. Williams has an established record of working with hunters, anglers, trappers, outdoor recreationists, and state and federal agencies to secure our nation’s fish and wildlife and their habitats for future generations.”   

Ms. Williams’ resounding confirmation follows a bipartisan, 16-4 vote in the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works that advanced her nomination to the full Senate. The Association proudly supported her nomination and joined many other conservation organizations in advocating for her advancement, including through a public letter of support submitted to the Committee. The Association thanks the Biden-Harris Administration and the Senate for their commitment to continuing the success of collaborative, state-led conservation.

The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies—the organization that represents North America’s fish and wildlife agencies—promotes sound resource management and conservation, and speaks on important fish and wildlife issues. Found on the web at www.fishwildlife.org, on Facebook /AssociationofFishandWildlifeAgencies and on Twitter @fishwildlife.