FROM THE DIRECTOR What a ride it has been By Brian Nesvik A s I pen my final column on a beautiful Wyoming morning, I am filled with hope and optimism for the future of our wildlife. Sure, there is a long list of challenges and threats, but there are some core reasons why I believe we will overcome our biggest challenges. First and foremost, the people of our state care deeply about our wildlife. Our connection to the outdoor world is woven into the fabric of our values and Wyoming citizens' quality of life. It's part of our culture and who we are. Wildlife conservation is a core component of two of the state's top three economic drivers - tourism and agriculture - and it holds a significant value for those engaged in these fields. Because people in our state care, I am confident protection and conservation of these resources will remain a priority for policy and decision-makers into the future. The future of wildlife in our state hinges on people who are involved and provide resources to conserve wildlife. Over the past several years, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department has prioritized connecting with youth in classrooms and at events across the state. Providing kids with an opportunity to connect with the outdoors ensures wildlife's future. Inspiring kids with outdoor experiences transcends into a passion for the rest of their lives. A large part of the reason people care is based on the incredible quality, abundance and diversity of wildlife in Wyoming. We have the largest populations of pronghorn and sage grouse in the world. There are areas in our state where you can call a Merriam's 2 | September 2024 Early one October morning in 1984, a 14-year-old Brian Nesvik and first-time deer hunter had a chance encounter with a game warden. This pivotal moment ignited a spark within him to become a game warden. Eleven years later he would begin his career with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. (WGFD photo) Nesvik served as the Pinedale game warden in the early 2000s. He is pictured here with his son Rudy after trapping a black bear. (WGFD photo)