MDWFP Welcomes New Wildlife Executive Staff Officer
3/31/2017 3:01:20 PM
From MDWFP
JACKSON - The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) has named Russ Walsh as the next Wildlife Executive Staff Officer, the agency announced Friday. Walsh previously was a biologist for Partners for Fish and Wildlife with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Before that, he was a biologist with the MDWFP for almost six years.
"We are pleased to have Russ Walsh back in the agency and are confident that his technical and leadership abilities will continue to advance the Wildlife Bureau," said Executive Director Dr. Sam Polles.
As the senior wildlife official for the MDWFP, Walsh will be involved in formulating and directing a comprehensive statewide program to conserve and manage the wildlife resources of Mississippi.
"The MDWFP has the largest conservation footprint in the state," Walsh said. "I have a strong dedication to the department and thoroughly support its mission. I look forward to working with a great organization to advance conservation efforts."
Walsh, a native of Amite County, initially served with the MDWFP as a district biologist in South Mississippi and coordinated the Landowner Incentive Program. In 2007, he assisted with establishing the Private Lands Habitat Program and served as a private lands biologist until he was hired by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
"I'm humbled and honored for the opportunity to serve as Wildlife Executive Staff Officer. The bureau handles a diverse array of tasks and challenges daily," Walsh said. "It's a privilege to be a part a dedicated team that strives to have positive impact for natural resources."
Walsh received a bachelor's degree in forestry and wildlife management from Mississippi State University and a master's degree in forest resources from Oklahoma State University.
For more information on the MDWFP, visit our website at www.mdwfp.com or call us at (601) 432-2212. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mdwfp or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDWFPonline.
